San Jose, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from San Jose to San Luis Obispo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$8 by trainBest price
256 kmDistance
3h 10m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose to San Luis Obispo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
San Jose - San Luis Obispo operators
Explore transport companies operating between San Jose and San Luis Obispo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Bus from San Jose to San Luis Obispo
Average Duration
4h 15mEstimated price
$17-65Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://www.flixbus.com
Bus from San Jose Downtown to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum
Average Duration
3h 15mEstimated price
$17-65Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from San Jose to San Luis Obispo
Average Duration
4h 58mEstimated price
$8-110Website
https://www.alaskaair.com
Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via San Diego
Average Duration
4h 50mEstimated price
$173-850Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via Portland
Average Duration
7h 50mEstimated price
$174-175Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via Seattle
Average Duration
7h 26mEstimated price
$174-175Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via Las Vegas
Average Duration
3h 58mEstimated price
$176-650Website
https://www.aa.com
Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via San Diego
Average Duration
4h 50mEstimated price
$173-850Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via Phoenix
Average Duration
6h 12mEstimated price
$177-178Website
https://www.united.com
Plane from San Jose to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) via Los Angeles
Average Duration
4h 12mEstimated price
$170-651San Jose to San Luis Obispo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between San Jose and San Luis Obispo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from San Jose to San Luis Obispo covering 186 miles of picturesque California landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely drive of approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes through charming towns and coastal views.
💸 The cost of traveling from San Jose to San Luis Obispo by car ranges from $30 to $50, offering a budget-friendly option for a memorable journey. Save on transportation expenses while experiencing the freedom of the open road at your own pace.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Traveling by train from San Jose to San Luis Obispo is a convenient and scenic option. The direct train service operated by Amtrak runs once daily and takes approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes to complete the journey.
🛤️ The train departs from San Jose station and arrives at San Luis Obispo station, covering a distance of 201 miles. The route offers travelers a comfortable and relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful coastal views along the way.
💰 Ticket prices for the San Jose to San Luis Obispo train ride range from $8 to $110, making it an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore the Central Coast region of California.amtrak.com/.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your trip from San Jose to San Luis Obispo, consider using Amtrak's Coast Starlight service, which offers a café car with a variety of onboard catering options including snacks, beverages, and hot meals. You can also enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and the option to purchase alcohol on board, making it a pleasant dining experience while you enjoy the picturesque views.
• Amtrak provides several seating options on this route: Business Class offers wider seats with more legroom, power outlets, and larger tables. Economy Class is more budget-friendly, with standard seating, but still features comfortable chairs and ample space. There is also a First Class option with even more amenities, but it may not be available on every train. Always check the Amtrak website or contact them before booking for availability on your specific journey.
• The main operator on this route is Amtrak. For more information, schedules, and tickets, visit their official website: amtrak.com It’s also wise to review the local transportation options available at your arrival station by checking the San Luis Obispo transit authority website for bus routes and schedule updates (slotransit.com). Upon arrival at the San Luis Obispo station, you may find luggage storage services available if you need to explore the city for a bit without your bags. Restrooms are available at the station, but there are no shower facilities.
🛫 Flying from San Jose to San Luis Obispo is a convenient option, with a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport taking just 1 hour and 13 minutes with United Airlines.
🌆 The total travel time from San Jose to San Luis Obispo by plane is approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes, providing a quick and efficient way to reach your destination in Central California.
💸 Prices for flights between San Luis Obispo and San Jose can range from $186 to $450, offering travelers flexibility in finding a ticket that fits their budget for this coastal journey.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 The direct bus from San Jose to San Luis Obispo operated by Amtrak takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to reach its destination.
🎟️ Ticket prices for the bus journey between San Jose and San Luis Obispo range from $17 to $65, offering travelers an affordable and convenient transportation option along the 163-mile route.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance on the Amtrak website or through their app, as prices can fluctuate based on demand, and reserving early can secure you a better fare or seat: amtrak.com
• Keep an eye on the bus schedule, which operates every two hours, and consider arriving at the San Jose station at least 30 minutes early to allow for any potential delays or boarding procedures; check the Amtrak schedule here: amtrak.com
• Upon arriving in San Luis Obispo, navigate the bus station by heading to the designated taxi and ride-share pick-up area, which is conveniently located outside the main entrance; this can save you time if you need to reach nearby hotels or attractions quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from San Jose to San Luis Obispo.
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The distance between San Jose and San Luis Obispo is approximately 255.9 km by road. Traveling by train takes about 4 hours and 58 minutes, while a plane journey takes around 4 hours and 33 minutes. If you prefer driving, it typically takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes by car.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Jose to San Luis Obispo is taking the Amtrak Thruway, which costs between $17 and $65 and takes approximately 4 hours. This is a convenient and economical choice for those who prefer not to drive. However, if time is a priority, driving is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 10 minutes and costing around $30 to $50 in fuel expenses.
The prices for train travel between San Jose and San Luis Obispo can range from $8 to $110, depending on the type of ticket and class of service.
To get from San Jose to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 299.3 km, and it takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to drive. You can expect to pay around $30 to $50 for gasoline and tolls, depending on your vehicle and current prices.
The best way to travel from San Jose to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking the Amtrak Thruway bus service. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and the ticket prices vary from $17 to $65, depending on the seating class. The Amtrak Thruway service offers a comfortable and convenient option for travelers who do not have access to a vehicle.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Jose and San Luis Obispo via train. Amtrak operates a daily train service that takes approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus service provided by Amtrak, which departs every four hours and takes around 4 hours to reach San Luis Obispo from San Jose.
The flight between San Jose and San Luis Obispo typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $166 to $450, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Luis Obispo. With over 213 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a variety of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $45 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.