Road Tripping from Calabasas to San Jose: Time to Hit the Road!

When planning a road trip from one end of California to the other, one of the most important aspects to consider is how long it’ll take to get there. Luckily, if you’re driving from Calabasas to San Jose, there are several routes you can take, each offering unique sights and a different duration.

The Fastest Route

The quickest way to get from Calabasas to San Jose is via I-5 North. You’ll travel a total of 343 miles, and it should take you approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes with ideal traffic conditions. Note that there are rest stops and small towns along the way, though the drive is mainly through scenic wilderness with little to no towns.

The Scenic Route

If you’re looking for scenic routes, we recommend heading north on The Pacific Coast Highway before eventually switching over to Route 1. While this route is a bit longer, at roughly 494 miles, it offers stunning beach and coast views, as well as an opportunity to explore Highway 1 famously known by some as the Big Sur Route.

The Slowest Route

If you’re in no rush and want to see more of Central California, consider taking Highway 101 North. The total distance is 419 miles, and the driving time is about 7 hours with some traffic delays. This route passes through popular cities like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and San Jose.

Traffic Time

Peak traffic hours, especially on weekdays, will add extra time to your drive regardless of the chosen route. An early morning start time typically has less traffic; however, the evening commute time may cause extensive delays. Keep in mind that weekends may have lower traffic volumes, but the road can be heavily congested during peak tourist seasons.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for the fastest route, a scenic drive, or a journey filled with sightseeing, there are several routes to take when driving from Calabasas to San Jose. Regardless of which you choose, keep in mind that peak traffic hours are a factor to consider. For those traveling on a tight schedule, it’s best to take the fastest route. However, if you’re in no rush, take the opportunity to explore the beautiful California scenery and enjoy the ride!