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Palm Springs, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $20: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Palm Springs, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Palm Springs 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.

$20 - Bus, train via Los AngelesBest price
497 kmDistance
5h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palm Springs 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
7h  25m
Estimated price
$29-118
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  23m
Estimated price
$20-158
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 497 km
Duration: 5h 15m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  12m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  36m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
$55-85
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  38m
Estimated price
$132-503
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  34m
Estimated price
$132-480

Traveling From Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo

Your journey from the sun-drenched desert of Palm Springs to the charming coastal town of San Luis Obispo offers a striking contrast between arid landscapes and lush greenery, showcasing California's diverse beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown SLO
• Vibrant with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Hosts the famous Farmers’ Market every Thursday.
Cerro San Luis
• Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and hiking trails.
• Offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
Cal Poly Area
• Home to California Polytechnic State University.
• Lively atmosphere with student-driven activities and events.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly improve your experience in San Luis Obispo.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful light.
Bubblegum Alley
Try visiting during weekdays to enjoy this quirky landmark without the rush.
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
Weekday mornings offer a quieter atmosphere to appreciate the art exhibitions.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as the weather enhances outdoor activities and local events.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

Visit Novo Restaurant & Lounge for an unforgettable experience with its vibrant atmosphere and a diverse menu that emphasizes local ingredients and international flavors. Unlike the upscale bistro style often found in Palm Springs, Novo’s focus on farm-to-table freshness, alongside picturesque creekside dining, offers a refreshing culinary adventure.

Palm Springs - San Luis Obispo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palm Springs 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
flixbus.com

Bus from Palm Springs Downtown to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$20-29

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

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$29-118
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
$29-118

Train from Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$20-118

Train from Fullerton Amtrak Station to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
6h 21m
Estimated price
$29-290
Plane Show flights

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
4h 54m
Estimated price
$291-550

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

Traveling between Palm Springs 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.

🚗 Start your road trip adventure from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo, covering a scenic driving distance of 309 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes along the way, from desert vistas to coastal views. 🌄 Budget approximately $55 to $85 for this enjoyable journey by car, with a travel time of around 5 hours and 15 minutes. Pack some snacks, create a travel playlist, and make stops at quaint towns or attractions along the route.
Average price
$55 - $85
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo by train, spanning a distance of 328 miles. The trip involves a transfer in Los Angeles, adding to the adventure of the experience. 🌄 The first step of the route is a 3-hour 33-minute train ride from Palm Springs to Union Station in Los Angeles aboard the Texas Eagle, operated by Amtrak. This leg sets the stage for the second part of the journey. 🏖️ The final stretch entails a 5-hour 26-minute ride on the Pacific Surfliner from Union Station to picturesque San Luis Obispo. Enjoy the coastal views as you make your way to your destination.
🛫 Traveling from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo by plane involves a one-stop flight with a total duration of 4 hours and 54 minutes. Alaska Airlines, Inc., United Airlines, and American Airlines operate flights on this route. 🌴 The journey from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo by air takes approximately 6 hours and 38 minutes. Although there is no direct flight, travelers can choose from various airlines for this route. 💸 Flight prices between San Luis Obispo and Palm Springs range from $132 to $503, offering travelers a range of options based on their budget and preferences. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your journey.
Departure Point
Indio/Palm Springs Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 54m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When flying from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo, be prepared for a layover as there are no direct flights; typically, routes stop over in cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, so check your itinerary carefully for connection times.
• Upon arrival at San Luis Obispo County Airport (SBP), be aware that it's a small airport, which means navigating to baggage claim and ground transportation is straightforward; however, ensure you have your ride set up in advance as taxi availability may vary.
• Expect taxi rates from San Luis Obispo Airport to the city center to be around $20-$30, depending on your exact destination; consider checking local ride-sharing options like Uber or Lyft for potentially lower fares or convenience.
🚌 There is no direct bus from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo. However, you can take a bus service operated by Flixbus USA with transfers at Los Angeles Union Station for a journey that lasts approximately 7 hours and 25 minutes. 🌴 Route 1 involves a total of 4 transfers over 15 hours and 18 minutes, covering a distance of 313 miles. The journey includes stops in Los Angeles, Yuma, Santa Barbara County, and Carpinteria before reaching San Luis Obispo. 🛣️ Route 2 takes 18 hours and 4 minutes, spanning 335 miles with 3 transfers via Palm Desert Mall, East Valley, and Los Angeles Downtown before continuing to San Luis Obispo. Both routes offer scenic views and a convenient way to travel between these two California cities.
Departure Point
Palm Springs Downtown station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Palm Springs and San Luis Obispo is approximately 256 miles by air. It takes about 6 hours and 4 minutes to travel by plane. The road distance is 309.1 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes to drive between the two cities. If you prefer public transportation, it takes 8 hours and 35 minutes by bus or 8 hours and 46 minutes by combining a night bus and a train.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo is to take a night bus and train, with prices ranging from $20 to $160 and a travel time of 8 hours and 46 minutes. This option offers a budget-friendly alternative for those looking to save money. However, if time is of the essence, driving is the quickest option, taking approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes and costing between $55 and $85. It allows for more flexibility and convenience in terms of departure and arrival times.
To get from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 309 miles. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 15 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo can vary between $55 and $85, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, if applicable.
The best way to travel from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking a night bus and then a regular bus. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 35 minutes. The specific bus schedules and fares can be obtained from the respective bus operators. Alternately, if you prefer a more convenient and faster option, you can also consider taking a plane, which would take approximately 6 hours and 4 minutes.
No, there is no direct link between Palm Springs and San Luis Obispo. However, there are bus services available through Los Angeles with a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 35 minutes including transfers. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA and Amtrak.
The flight duration from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo typically takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes, including one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary between $362 to $703, depending on the airline and time of booking.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Luis Obispo. There are over 213 hotels to choose from in the area, offering a range of prices starting at $45 per night. These hotels vary in terms of amenities and locations, so it's recommended to research and choose the one that best suits your preferences and budget. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there should be plenty of choices available to you.

Trips from Palm Springs

Trips to San Luis Obispo