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Los Angeles, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $9: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Los Angeles, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$9 by trainBest price
261 kmDistance
3h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles 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.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  35m
Estimated price
$18-70
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  26m
Estimated price
$9-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 261 km
Duration: 3h 29m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  25m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  29m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$171-462
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Traveling From Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo

The journey from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the serene beauty of San Luis Obispo offers a fascinating contrast between the vibrant urban life and the tranquil charm of coastal California.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct vibes and experiences.

Downtown SLO
• Vibrant shops and dining options abound.
• Close proximity to cultural events and festivals.
California Polytechnic State University Area
• Lively atmosphere filled with students and activities.
• Access to beautiful campus grounds and recreational areas.
Bishop Peak
• Stunning hiking trails with scenic views.
• Quiet residential feel, ideal for relaxed visits.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Planning your trip around peak times can enhance your experience in San Luis Obispo's attractions.

Hearst Castle
Visit during weekday mornings to experience fewer crowds and enjoy the grounds.
Downtown Farmers Market
Arrive early on Thursday evenings for the freshest produce and best atmosphere.
Bishop Peak Hike
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and stunning views.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round, making it an inviting destination at any time. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall months, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities can be fully enjoyed without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

For a true taste of San Luis Obispo, try the artisanal wood-fired pizzas at SLO Pizzetta, where the local ingredients shine through in every bite. This dining experience contrasts sharply with the trendy fusion fare found in Los Angeles, offering a cozy atmosphere and a focus on simplicity that highlights the rich flavors of the region.

Los Angeles - San Luis Obispo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$18-70
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
$9-110

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Website
https://www.united.com

Other from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$171-462

Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles 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 picturesque road trip from bustling Los Angeles to the charming town of San Luis Obispo, covering a distance of 202 miles. ⏰ Enjoy approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes of scenic driving along the California coast, with prices ranging from $35 to $55 for a journey filled with stunning views and memorable pit stops.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Traveling by train from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct train service operated by Amtrak runs four times a day, taking approximately 5 hours and 26 minutes to reach your destination. 🌴 🚆 Departing from Union Station in Los Angeles, the train travels through picturesque landscapes, covering a distance of 222 miles before arriving at San Luis Obispo station. The prices for this train ride vary from $9 to $110, offering affordable options for travelers. 🎟️
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner offers a café car with a variety of snacks and beverages, including hot food options. You can enjoy coffee, sandwiches, and alcoholic drinks while soaking in scenic views. There’s also a comfy lounge area to relax in between meals.
Seating Options: The Pacific Surfliner provides several seating options including Business Class, which offers more spacious seating and complimentary beverage services, and Economy Class, which is more budget-friendly with standard seating. It's recommended to book Business Class for enhanced comfort during the journey.
Arrival Station Tip: At the San Luis Obispo station, you'll find a convenient luggage storage option available if you want to explore the area before heading to your accommodation. The station has restrooms, but showers are not provided. Look for helpful signage that can guide you to local transport options.
Fastest Way to City Center: From the San Luis Obispo station, the fastest way to reach the city center is to take the San Luis Obispo Transit bus Route 5, which runs every 30 minutes and takes about 10-15 minutes to downtown. For more transit information, visit their website at slotransit.com
Multiple Operators: The primary operator for this route is Amtrak. You can see schedules and book tickets on their website at amtrak.com Alternatively, you can check out the Pacific Surfliner website at pacificsurfliner.com for additional information and travel tips.
🛫 Fly from Los Angeles Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport in just 1 hour and 8 minutes on a direct United Airlines flight. 🌊 Enjoy a quick and convenient journey that takes approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes to reach the charming city of San Luis Obispo from Los Angeles. 💸 Prices for flights between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles range from $171 to $462, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budgets and preferences.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Traveling from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo by bus is a convenient option with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. 💰 Prices for this route can vary between $18 to $70, making it an affordable and efficient way to reach the picturesque city of San Luis Obispo from the bustling city of Los Angeles.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Union Station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo.

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The distance between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo is approximately 162 miles by air and road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes to reach San Luis Obispo from Los Angeles. By train, it takes 5 hours and 26 minutes, and by car, it takes 3 hours and 29 minutes. Taking a combination of flight and Amtrak Thruway bus takes around 6 hours and 19 minutes. Bus travel from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo typically takes 5 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo is by train, with prices ranging from $9 to $110. Although the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 26 minutes, it is a more affordable choice. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach San Luis Obispo is by driving, which takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $35 and $55. This option provides a more time-efficient option for travelers.
The prices for traveling from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo vary depending on the mode of transportation. For trains, the prices can range from $9 to $110. On the other hand, buses between the two cities can cost anywhere from $19 to $75. It's advisable to check with the specific train or bus provider for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To get from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 202 miles, which takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. The cost of the trip by car varies, ranging from $35 to $55. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of route and stops along the way, making it a convenient option for traveling between the two cities.
To travel from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes, with tickets ranging from $19 to $75. Another alternative is to take a train, which takes about 5 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $9 and $110. If time is of the essence, flying is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 46 minutes, with prices ranging from $150 to $440.
Yes, there is a direct link between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo. You can take a train operated by Amtrak, which departs four times a day and takes approximately 5 hours and 26 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus operated by Amtrak, which departs once daily and takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes. Both options provide convenient and direct transportation between the two cities.
The flight between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo typically takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight varies depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, with prices ranging from $151 to $432. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may not include additional fees or luggage charges.
There are plenty of accommodation options near San Luis Obispo with over 213 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $45 per night, providing options for various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly motels, you'll find a variety of choices to suit your needs.

Trips from Los Angeles

Trips to San Luis Obispo