California - Driving SNA to Temecula during rush hour

If we arrive at Orange County Airport at 4:58 p.m. on a weekday, pick up our rental car and then drive to Temecula, what would be the best route? We realize none will be ideal at that time of day. Google Maps gives two main options: 1) toll roads 261 and 24 to Hwy. 91, then I-15 south; 2) I-5 south to Hwy. 76 to I-15 north; 3) Hwy 55 to Hwy 73 (connecting to private toll road) to I-5 south to 75 to I-15. I'm guessing #3 would be quickest. $5.50 toll. Any thoughts?

If we arrive at Orange County Airport at 4:58 p.m. on a weekday, pick up our rental car and then drive to Temecula, what would be the best route? We realize none will be ideal at that time of day. Google Maps gives two main options: 1) toll roads 261 and 24 to Hwy. 91, then I-15 south; 2) I-5 south to Hwy. 76 to I-15 north; 3) Hwy 55 to Hwy 73 (connecting to private toll road) to I-5 south to 75 to I-15. I'm guessing #3 would be quickest. $5.50 toll. Any thoughts?

For route 3 you could take MacArthur Blvd instead of the 55 to join up to the 73 toll road. The trip of the 55 is short and MacArthur whilst having traffic lights will be less congested. The 73 is the best bet as hardly anyone in the southern california will pay for a toll route.

The most direct route is I-5 south to San Juan Capistrano, Rt #74 east, go around Lk. Elsinore to I-15 south, then 10mi. south to Temecula.
No drive during rush hour will be fun, but this is scenic and direct.

For route 3 you could take MacArthur Blvd instead of the 55 to join up to the 73 toll road. The trip of the 55 is short and MacArthur whilst having traffic lights will be less congested. The 73 is the best bet as hardly anyone in the southern california will pay for a toll route.

I forgot to add that in southern california the toll roads are usually unmanned so you need to have the correct change (in quarters) otherwise you will be left at the toll booth with the only option being to drive through and pay the fine.

The most direct route is I-5 south to San Juan Capistrano, Rt #74 east, go around Lk. Elsinore to I-15 south, then 10mi. south to Temecula.
No drive during rush hour will be fun, but this is scenic and direct.

I agree this is the direct and probably quickest. Just keep on your toes on the Ortega Highway as it's got some construction on it and accidents are frequent...

I agree this is the direct and probably quickest. Just keep on your toes on the Ortega Highway as it's got some construction on it and accidents are frequent...

Another point: If your new to California, please understand and use the marked turnouts(lets traffic pass) on the mountain roads if you are going to drive at anything below the speed limit!

When will this trip be done?? Under Daylight Saving Time or Standard Time?? Reason I ask, it's dark on Rt. #74.

5 South to Ortega Hwy. State Rt. 74.
This will take you to the 15. 15 South to Temecula.

WARNING:
Ortega Highway is a winding 2 Lane Canyon drive. Very Beautiful.
But VERY DANGEROUS. Especially at night. And if your not familiar with the canyon. Take your time and pull over for faster traffic to pass you safely.

Most of the construction past Antonio is complete

I almost wonder if it might be better for someone not familiar with the area, and especially driving after dark where the scenery is not visible, to take 55 north to 91, then east to 15 to avoid the Ortega Highway. It's only about 10-15 miles out of the way and much less stressful.

I almost wonder if it might be better for someone not familiar with the area, and especially driving after dark where the scenery is not visible, to take 55 north to 91, then east to 15 to avoid the Ortega Highway. It's only about 10-15 miles out of the way and much less stressful.

That's fine except the OP is driving during peak hour and that route is with traffic. If he/she is travelling soon they should be able to hit the Ortega whilst it is still light.