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Monterey, CA, USA to Pismo Beach, CA, USA from $28: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Monterey, United States of America
to
Pismo Beach, United States of America

How to Get from Monterey to Pismo Beach: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$28 by carBest price
253 kmDistance
2h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Monterey to Pismo Beach 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  12m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  58m
Estimated price
$12-114
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 253 km
Duration: 2h 41m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$28-45
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
6h  18m
Estimated price
$221-490
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Monterey to Pismo Beach

The scenic drive from Monterey to Pismo Beach offers a striking contrast between the rugged coastline and serene sandy beaches, inviting you to explore diverse landscapes and experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct charm.

Downtown Pismo Beach
• Vibrant restaurants and shops within walking distance.
• Stunning views from the iconic Pismo Pier.
Shell Beach
• Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
• Scenic bluffs with beautiful ocean vistas.
Grover Beach
• Offers wider stretches of sandy coastline and dunes.
• Great spot for water sports and beach activities.

Best Times To Visit Pismo Beach's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Pismo Beach.

Pismo Beach Pier
Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning sunrises and sunsets without the crowds.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
October through February is the best time to see the butterflies, especially on sunny days.
Dinosaur Caves Park
Weekdays are ideal for a quieter visit, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenic playground.

Pismo Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pismo Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool, foggy summers and pleasant winters. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as the weather is comfortable and crowds are lighter, allowing for an enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Pismo Beach

Try the clam chowder at Splash Cafe; its creamy texture and rich flavors represent the coastal bounty of Pismo Beach, offering a delicious departure from Monterey's seafood focus. The casual beachside atmosphere enhances your meal, immersing you in a laid-back vibe that's perfect for enjoying local ingredients.

Monterey - Pismo Beach operators

Explore transport companies operating between Monterey and Pismo Beach, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Salinas Amtrak Station to Grover Beach

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Paso Robles Amtrak Station to Grover Beach

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Salinas to Grover Beach

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Salinas to Paso Robles Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 51m
Estimated price
$4-120
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport (SFO) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$180-430
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to SFO Airport International Arrivals

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$45-1143

Monterey to Pismo Beach: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Monterey and Pismo Beach 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 Monterey to Pismo Beach, spanning 157 miles of stunning California coastline. Enjoy a leisurely drive that typically takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. 🚗 Wind your way southward, passing through charming coastal towns and scenic vistas along the route. With car journey expenses ranging from $28 to $45, affordability meets adventure on this delightful coastal excursion.
Average price
$28 - $45
🚆 Start your journey from Monterey to Pismo Beach by taking a bus towards Salinas 🚌. This initial step will take about 50 minutes before you transfer to the next leg of your trip. 🚆 Next, board a bus towards Santa Barbara 🚌 which will be a 3-hour journey. Enjoy the scenic views as you travel towards your final destination. 🚆 Your final step involves a short bus ride towards Santa Maria Transit Center 🚌. After 27 minutes, you'll arrive at Pismo Beach Premium Outlets, marking the end of your train travel adventure from Monterey to Pismo Beach.
🛫 Flying from Monterey to Pismo Beach involves taking a short flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, lasting about 1 hour and 13 minutes. United Airlines provides convenient direct flights for this route. 🌊 Upon arriving at San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, travelers can easily access the scenic coastal town of Pismo Beach. The airport is located approximately 15 miles away from Pismo Beach, making it a quick and convenient journey for visitors.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Starting from Monterey your bus journey to Pismo Beach involves transfers and takes approximately 6 hours and 12 minutes. 🌊 Route options vary in terms of duration and transfers, ranging from 5 hours 24 minutes to 10 hours 24 minutes for the 148-mile distance between the two cities.
Departure Point
Salinas Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Grover Beach station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Monterey to Pismo Beach.

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The cheapest way to get from Monterey to Pismo Beach is by driving. The approximate cost for this journey ranges from $28 to $45, depending on fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes, considering normal traffic conditions.
The quickest way to travel from Monterey to Pismo Beach is by driving. This route is approximately 136 miles and takes about 2 hours and 41 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. You can take the CA-1 S and US-101 S highways, enjoying beautiful coastal views along the way. It is advisable to check for any road closures or delays before starting your journey.
The distance between Monterey and Pismo Beach is approximately 123 miles. If you travel by road, the distance is about 157 miles. The travel time may vary depending on the route taken and the traffic conditions. It is advisable to plan for a journey of about 2 hours and 41 minutes by car.
The best way to travel from Monterey to Pismo Beach without a car is to take the Amtrak Thruway bus service. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes. You can check the Amtrak website for the current schedule and ticket prices. Another option is to take a combination of public buses, such as the Monterey-Salinas Transit and the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority, which may take longer but could be more budget-friendly.
The approximate travel time from Monterey to Pismo Beach is around 6 hours and 18 minutes, including transfers. The actual time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to plan ahead and allow for enough time to reach your destination comfortably.
There are numerous options for accommodation in Pismo Beach. There are over 162 hotels available to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $45. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to find the best deal for your desired stay in Pismo Beach.
Yes, you can drive from Monterey to Pismo Beach. The distance between the two cities is approximately 157 miles. The drive usually takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It's a scenic drive along the California coastline.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Monterey and Pismo Beach. However, you can take a combination of buses to reach your destination. The journey involves departing from Tyler / Franklin in Monterey and arriving at Dolliver St @ San Luis Ave in Pismo Beach via Salinas Amtrak Station and West Grand Avenue @ 2nd Street WB. The whole journey, including transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes. It's recommended to check the schedule and plan your trip accordingly.
You can catch the bus from Monterey to Pismo Beach at the Salinas Amtrak Station. This is the departure point for Amtrak bus services. Salinas Amtrak Station is located at 11 Station Place, Salinas 93901. It is recommended to check the bus schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
The bus service from Monterey to Pismo Beach operated by Amtrak arrives at Grover Beach Amtrak station. This station is conveniently located in Grover Beach, which is just a short distance from Pismo Beach. Once you arrive at Grover Beach Amtrak station, you can easily reach Pismo Beach by taking a taxi, ride-share service, or local transportation. The station is well-connected and provides easy access to various parts of Pismo Beach and its surrounding areas.
To get to Pismo Beach from Monterey Airport, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or book a private car. The airport is approximately 200 miles away from Pismo Beach, which translates to around a 3-hour drive depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a connecting flight from Monterey Airport to San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, which is about 12 miles away from Pismo Beach. From there, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service to your final destination.
There are no direct flights between Monterey and Pismo Beach. However, American Airlines and United Airlines both offer flights from Monterey Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, which is the closest airport to Pismo Beach. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or book a shuttle service to reach Pismo Beach, which is about a 15-minute drive away. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to travel from Monterey to Pismo Beach by plane is to fly from Monterey Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. However, there are no direct flights available. The quickest flight option with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. American Airlines and United Airlines operate flights on this route. From the airport, it would take an additional 2 hours and 28 minutes to reach Pismo Beach by car. Flight prices for this route range from $202 to $704, depending on availability and airline choice.
The flight from Monterey to Pismo Beach does not have a direct route. The quickest flight option takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with one stopover. The exact duration of the stopover will depend on the specific airline and flight itinerary chosen. Please note that flight durations may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
The cost of a flight from Monterey to Pismo Beach can range from $202 to $704, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to compare prices and find the best deal. Prices may also vary depending on the time of travel and any additional services or baggage fees. It is advisable to book in advance and remain flexible with travel dates to secure the best possible price.
The cost of driving from Monterey to Pismo Beach can range from $28 to $45 depending on various factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. The distance between the two cities is approximately 136 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 41 minutes to drive there. It's always a good idea to check gas prices and consider any tolls or parking fees that may apply during your journey to get a more accurate estimate of the overall cost.

Trips from Monterey