Road Trip: Drive Time from Bakersfield to Newport Beach

Are you planning a road trip from Bakersfield, California to Newport Beach, California? It's a beautiful drive that takes you through scenic routes and landmarks. But one crucial factor that often determines the success of any road trip is the driving time. In this blog post, we would be exploring the different routes to Newport Beach and how long it takes to get there based on traffic patterns.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are two main routes to take when driving from Bakersfield to Newport Beach: the I-5 South and the CA-99 South. The I-5 South route is the fastest way to get to Newport Beach but could also be the more tiring route. The journey takes about 3 hours 6 minutes on average, covering 165 miles. However, if you're willing to take your time and enjoy the journey, the CA-99 South is a great option. This route has fewer cars and offers scenic views of the countryside. The drive takes about 3 hours 29 minutes on average and covers 176 miles.

Distance and Driving Time Based on Traffic Patterns

The distance between Bakersfield and Newport Beach is 165 miles via the I-5 South and 176 miles via the CA-99 South. However, driving time varies based on traffic patterns and the time of day. During peak traffic periods, for example, when the roads are busy, it could take up to 5 hours to get to Newport Beach via the I-5 South route. This is typically during rush hour periods, between 7 am to 10 am, and 4 pm to 7 pm. In contrast, the CA-99 South route has less traffic and takes even less time during peak traffic periods, taking around 3 hours and 40 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Driving from Bakersfield to Newport Beach is a fun and adventurous road trip that offers scenic views of the countryside. However, the driving time could vary based on traffic patterns and the route you take. For the fastest route, the I-5 South is your best bet. Still, it could take longer during peak traffic periods. Alternatively, the CA-99 South route is less busy and offers a more relaxing drive, taking only a little longer than the I-5 South route. Whatever route you choose, plan your journey and check the traffic patterns before setting out. Bon Voyage!