Is there a train from Seaside to Des Moines?

No, there is no direct rail service; you would need to drive to Emeryville to catch the California Zephyr.

What is the best highway for this trip?

Interstate 80 is the primary and most direct highway connecting the West Coast to Iowa.

Are there direct flights?

No, all flights from Monterey to Des Moines require at least one connection.

How long does the drive take?

The drive takes approximately 26 hours of driving time, usually split over three days.

Is it cheaper to fly or drive?

For a solo traveler, flying is often comparable in price to driving when factoring in hotels and food.

Seaside

Des Moines

Flight Driving

Seaside to Des Moines

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from the California coast to the heart of the Midwest covers approximately 2,700 km. The most efficient route involves flying from Monterey Regional Airport to Des Moines International Airport with a connection. Driving requires navigating I-80 East, a journey spanning roughly 26 hours of pure road time. You will cross the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Great Plains. This route offers a dramatic transition from coastal fog to expansive cornfields. Plan for significant elevation changes and varying weather conditions throughout the year.

Total Distance: 2,700 km driving distance; 2,350 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from MRY to DSM takes approximately 7.5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more people, costing roughly $400 in total fuel.

Compare Seaside to Des Moines Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 30 mins	26 hours
Avg Price	$450 - $800	$350 - $500 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MRY to DSM via SFO or DEN.	I-80 East through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
Tip	Book your flight out of Monterey Regional Airport to save on the drive to San Francisco.	Check your tire pressure and coolant levels before crossing the high-altitude passes in Wyoming.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Use Monterey Regional Airport to avoid the heavy traffic of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Mountain Driving
If driving, carry chains during winter months as I-80 through the Sierras is frequently restricted.
Time Zones
You will cross two time zone boundaries, so adjust your watch accordingly.
Hydration
The high desert air in Nevada and Utah is extremely dry; keep extra water in your vehicle.
Fuel Stops
In rural Wyoming, fuel stations can be 100 km apart; never let your tank drop below a quarter.

Safety Tips

Wildlife
Be alert for deer and elk on I-80, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Weather Alerts
Monitor the National Weather Service for wind warnings in Nebraska, which can affect high-profile vehicles.
Emergency Kit
Keep a winter emergency kit in your trunk, including blankets and non-perishable food.
Fatigue
Stop every 4 hours to stretch; the monotony of the Great Plains can cause driver fatigue.