1map logoGo to main page

Monterey, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $7: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Monterey, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Monterey to San Luis Obispo: 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.

$7 by trainBest price
185 kmDistance
2h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Monterey 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
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$14-58
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$7-93
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 185 km
Duration: 2h 29m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  29m
Estimated price
$26-40
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$200-489
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Monterey to San Luis Obispo

The journey from Monterey to San Luis Obispo offers a shift from coastal charm and marine beauty to a vibrant downtown filled with wine culture and stunning landscapes.

Best Neighborhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown SLO
• Bustling shops and restaurants line the streets.
• Frequent local events create a lively atmosphere.
Edna Valley
• Renowned for its stunning wineries and vineyards.
• Picturesque landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
Mission District
• Historical sites highlight the area's rich culture.
• A charming plaza ideal for relaxing and dining.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Strategizing your visit can elevate your experience in San Luis Obispo's attractions.

Hearst Castle
Visiting early in the morning on weekdays minimizes crowds and enhances exploration.
Bubblegum Alley
Mornings or off-peak hours give a better photo opportunity without the rush.
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Weekdays are quieter, allowing for a more peaceful visit to this historic site.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cooler winters, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Visiting during spring and fall offers the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

For a delightful contrast to Monterey's seafood offerings, try the wood-fired pizzas at SLO Pies, where artisanal ingredients and flavors come together in a lively, rustic atmosphere. This dining experience showcases local produce and unique recipes, offering a fresh take that sets San Luis Obispo apart from Monterey's coastal fare.

Monterey - San Luis Obispo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Monterey 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
1-888-678-2871
Website
mst.org

Bus from Tyler / Franklin to Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$583-584
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$585-1415
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salinas to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$141-142

Train from Salinas to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$7-93
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
1-831-373-7777
Website
montereyairbus.com

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

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$5845-60
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$143-144

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

Traveling between Monterey 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 Monterey to San Luis Obispo, spanning 145 miles of stunning California coastline. Enjoy a scenic drive that takes approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes, offering plenty of sights to behold along the way. 💸 Explore budget-friendly options to journey from Monterey to San Luis Obispo by car, with prices ranging from $26 to $40. Experience the flexibility of traveling at your own pace, taking in the beauty of the Central Coast without breaking the bank.
Average price
$26 - $40
🚆 Traveling from Monterey to San Luis Obispo by train takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes, offering a scenic route through Central California. 🎟️ The prices for a train ticket between Monterey and San Luis Obispo can range from $7 to $93, providing budget-friendly options for this journey.
🛫 Flying from Monterey to San Luis Obispo is a convenient and efficient travel option. With a quick direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, the journey takes just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Starting from Monterey travelers can take a bus towards Salinas for the first leg of the journey to San Luis Obispo. This initial bus ride typically lasts about 46 minutes. 🌊 After reaching Salinas, passengers will transfer to another bus heading towards Santa Barbara for the remainder of the trip to San Luis Obispo. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. 🌅 The scenic route covers a distance of 135 miles, offering travelers a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the beautiful coastal landscapes of California from Monterey to San Luis Obispo by bus.
Departure Point
Tyler / Franklin station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Monterey and San Luis Obispo is 115 miles or 144.5 miles by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: 5 hours and 8 minutes by train, 6 hours by taking a shuttle and then flying, 2 hours and 29 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 55 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on traffic and other factors, so it's always best to plan ahead and check for any updates or delays.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Monterey to San Luis Obispo is taking the line 20 bus and bus, which costs $14-$60 and takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, driving is the most time-efficient choice. It takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes to drive from Monterey to San Luis Obispo, but keep in mind that there may be additional costs for gas and tolls.
When traveling from Monterey to San Luis Obispo the prices for a train ticket can range from $7 to $93. For those opting to take a bus, the prices can vary from $14 to $58. The specific price within these ranges will depend on factors such as time of travel, availability, and any discounts or promotions that may be applicable. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Monterey to San Luis Obispo without public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 145 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 29 minutes by car. The prices for a car journey vary from $26 to $40, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Monterey to San Luis Obispo without a car, the best option is to take the line 20 bus and then transfer to a bus for the remainder of the journey. This route typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $14 and $60. This option is convenient and affordable for those who do not have access to a car and wish to travel between these two cities.
No, there is no direct link between Monterey and San Luis Obispo. However, there is a bus service operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit that takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes with transfers at Salinas Train Station. It departs from Tyler / Franklin station in Monterey and arrives at San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum. Another option is to take a Flixbus USA bus, which also arrives at San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station.
The flight between Monterey and San Luis Obispo typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it typically ranges from around $100 to $300 per person for a one-way ticket. It's always a good idea to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance for the best deals.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near San Luis Obispo. With over 213 hotels to choose from, you have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels start at $45, so there are options available for different budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly options, or cozy bed and breakfasts, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay near San Luis Obispo.

Trips from Monterey

Trips to San Luis Obispo