Road Trip: How Long Does It Take to Drive From Buena Park, CA to Gardena, CA?

If you live in Buena Park and are planning a road trip to Gardena, you're probably wondering how long it will take you to reach your destination. With so many highways and routes to choose from, it can be hard to determine the quickest way to get there. Luckily, we've done the research for you and have all the details you need to plan your trip.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route from Buena Park to Gardena is via Interstate 405 South. The distance is roughly 24 miles and it should take you approximately 33 minutes to drive there during low traffic times. However, during peak traffic hours (7:00 am – 9:30 am and 4:00 pm – 6:30 pm), that time can nearly double, taking up to 1 hour.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route from Buena Park to Gardena is via surface streets. This route is only 20 miles, but due to stop lights, speed limits, and slower traffic, it can take up to an hour to reach your destination.

Time of Day Matters

When traveling from Buena Park to Gardena, time of day is an important factor to consider. If you have the flexibility of choosing when you hit the road, aim to travel during non-peak hours. This means either leaving super early (before 6:30 am) or waiting until rush hour has passed.

Planning Your Drive

When planning your drive, take into consideration the time of day and the route you will be taking. If you are driving during peak hours, plan to give yourself extra time or opt to drive on the slower surface streets to avoid the stop-and-go traffic on the freeway. Alternatively, if you have more time and want to explore, consider taking a scenic route, such as the Pacific Coast Highway.

The Verdict

While there are numerous routes you can take to reach Gardena from Buena Park, the fastest one is via I-405 South. However, depending on traffic patterns, it could take anywhere from 33 minutes to an hour to get there. If traffic is heavy, consider taking surface streets, but be prepared for a longer drive. By planning ahead and considering the time of day and route you'll be taking, you can make your trip to Gardena a breeze.