Find Lompoc to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) bus tickets
Why Choose Bus from Lompoc to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)
Traveling from Lompoc to Santa Maria offers a unique opportunity to explore scenic Santa Barbara County. Choosing the right mode of transportation can greatly enhance your journey, making your travel experience more enjoyable and convenient.
💰 Cost-Effective Travel
pros
- Bus fares from Lompoc to Santa Maria are generally lower compared to train or flight options, making it a budget-friendly choice.
- Group travel is more economical on a bus, with discounts often available for multiple passengers riding together.
cons
- Occasionally, travelers may face additional costs if they need to arrange transport to/from bus stations.
🛎️ Convenient Schedule and Direct Routes
pros
- Buses operate five times a day between Lompoc and Santa Maria, providing flexibility for planning your journey.
- The direct route takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes, with no cumbersome transfers, making it faster than train travel, which can take longer due to stops.
cons
- Buses may experience delays due to traffic conditions, which can sometimes affect travel time.
⭐ Scenic Views and Comfortable Amenities
pros
- Travelers enjoy scenic views of Santa Barbara County during the bus ride, enhancing the travel experience.
- Many buses are equipped with comfortable seating and amenities, such as Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant journey.
cons
- Limited amenities may be available compared to some train services, potentially affecting long-distance travel comfort.
highlights:
Travelers should be prepared for potential delays and check the bus schedule to ensure timely arrivals.
Affordable ticket prices make bus travel an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
The convenient schedule and direct routes lead to shorter overall travel times compared to trains, making bus travel more efficient.
Enjoying scenic views of the countryside adds to the overall travel experience, making it worthwhile.
Bus Options from Lompoc to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct | Santa Maria Area Transit | Lompoc Transit Hub, Lompoc | Transit Center, Santa Maria | 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00 | 09:06, 11:06, 13:06, 15:06, 17:06 | Five times daily (Monday to Friday) | 1h 6m | $ 1-2 | |
| Connecting | Clean Air Express | Lompoc Transit Hub, Lompoc | Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, Santa Maria | 07:00, 09:00, 11:00 | 10:10, 12:10, 14:10 | Twice daily | 3h 10m | $ 10-15 | Santa Barbara |
| Connecting | Clean Air Express | Lompoc Transit Hub, Lompoc | Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, Santa Maria | 08:00, 10:00, 12:00 | 11:30, 13:30, 15:30 | Twice daily | 3h 30m | $ 10-15 | Goleta |
| Connecting | Clean Air Express | Lompoc Transit Hub, Lompoc | Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, Santa Maria | 09:00, 11:00, 13:00 | 12:50, 14:50, 16:50 | Twice daily | 2h 50m | $ 10-15 | Goleta |
| Connecting | Wine Country Express | Lompoc Transit Hub, Lompoc | Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, Santa Maria | 11:00, 13:00, 15:00 | 17:10, 19:10, 21:10 | Twice daily | 6h 10m | $ 15-20 | Solvang |
Comparison of Bus Operators from Lompoc to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)
Comparing bus operators service between Lompoc and Santa Maria is crucial for travelers seeking the best travel experience in terms of cost, convenience, and comfort. By analyzing key factors such as price, amenities, baggage policies, and accessibility, passengers can make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.
| Criteria | Clean Air Express | AmericanStar | City of Lompoc Transit (COLT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $ 15 - $ 25 | $ 20 - $ 35 | $ 10 - $ 20 |
| pricing policies | |||
| refund policy | Refunds are allowed within 24 hours of purchase if notified via customer service. | Refunds are processed within 7-10 business days, cancellations must be made at least 48 hours before departure. | No refunds; tickets are non-transferable. |
| Ticket Changes | Tickets can be changed with a fee of $5 up to 1 hour before the departure. | No fees for changing tickets if done 24 hours in advance. | No fee to change tickets as long as it’s within the same day. |
| discounts | 10% discount for students and seniors. | Children under 12 ride half price. | Free rides for children under 5. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, Air conditioning, Restroom on board | On-board refreshments, Power outlets, Entertainment system | Bicycle racks, Real-time tracking, Air conditioning |
| baggage allowance | |||
| free allowance | 1 standard bag (up to 50lbs) and 1 personal item. | 2 free bags (up to 50lbs each). | 1 bag (up to 40lbs) and 1 small item. |
| Additional Fees | $10 for each extra bag. | $15 for overweight bags (over 50lbs). | No additional fees for extra items, but size restrictions apply. |
| accessibility | Wheelchair accessible with designated seating and lifts. | Accessibility features include ramps and priority seating for passengers with disabilities. | Fully accessible with low-floor buses and audio announcements. |
Travelers should weigh their options based on criteria that matter most to them. For budget-conscious passengers, COLT offers the lowest prices, while Clean Air Express provides a good blend of affordability and amenities. AmericanStar, on the other hand, is ideal for those seeking more comfort and additional services. Each operator has unique benefits catering to different needs, making it essential for travelers to consider what matters most to them in their journey from Lompoc to Santa Maria.
Bus Stops and Stations from Lompoc to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)
Understanding the bus stops and stations between Lompoc and Santa Maria is crucial for seamless travel arrangements.
Main Bus Stations in Lompoc
Lompoc Transit Center
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
- Free Wi-Fi
- Vending machines
- Accessible ramps and elevators
Transportation Links
- Bus services from local transit lines
- Taxi and rideshare services are available nearby
- Parking is available for private vehicles
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid rush and ensure a smooth boarding process.
- Be mindful of security checks if traveling during peak hours.
- Consider dining at nearby cafes or restaurants if you arrive with extra time.
Main Bus Stations in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)
Santa Maria Regional Transit Center
facilities
- Restrooms
- Waiting areas with seating
- Ticket purchase options (counters and kiosks)
- Free Wi-Fi
- Vending machines and snack shops
- Accessibility features including ramps
Transportation Links
- Multiple bus routes connecting to surrounding regions
- Availability of taxis and rideshares at the station
- On-site parking for travelers with private cars
- Plan to arrive 20 minutes before your bus is scheduled to depart.
- Check for transit maps and schedules posted within the facility.
- Utilize time before departure to explore the nearby mall for dining options.
En Route Stops
Guadalupe
facilities
- Restrooms
- Small waiting area
- Vending machines
Orcutt
facilities
- Limited seating
- Information board
- No restrooms available
By familiarizing themselves with the bus stations, services on the route, and nearby amenities, travelers can enhance their journey from Lompoc to Santa Maria.
Travel Tips
⛰ Enjoy Scenic Views Along the Route
Take advantage of the beautiful landscapes that span between Lompoc and Santa Maria. The trip offers glimpses of California's stunning agricultural fields, rolling hills, and perhaps even see some local wildlife. Make sure to sit on the right side of the bus for the best views as you approach the coast.
📍 Check Bus Schedules in Advance
Bus schedules can vary, especially on weekends or during special events in the area. Be sure to check the timetable ahead of your journey to avoid long waits. Certain local festivals or agricultural fairs in Santa Maria may also affect service, so plan accordingly.
🚍 Bring Local Snacks
Pack some local snacks or pick up some fresh produce from nearby farms or markets before boarding. Sampling sweet strawberries from Santa Maria is a must, and having snacks on hand during the trip makes the experience more enjoyable and supports local businesses.
🎭 Utilize the Bus Amenities
Familiarize yourself with the amenities offered on your bus. Some services may provide free Wi-Fi, restrooms, or power outlets. These features can make your travel time more comfortable and productive, whether you want to catch up on work or stream a show.
🏛 Explore Cultural Stops
If time allows, consider getting off in places like the town of Orcutt along the route. This quaint community features local shops and eateries, offering a taste of the region’s charm. Just be mindful of your scheduled bus times to avoid delays.