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Sacramento, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $14: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Sacramento 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.

$14 by trainBest price
376 kmDistance
4h 57m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento 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  35m
Estimated price
$30-123
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  36m
Estimated price
$14-140
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 376 km
Duration: 4h 57m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  22m
Estimated price
$30-300
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  57m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$183-655
Company
Various
Train
BART
Plane
Average Duration
6h  4m
Estimated price
$184-517
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  18m
Estimated price
$306-307
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Traveling From Sacramento to San Luis Obispo

The journey from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo offers a fascinating contrast between the bustling city life of California's capital and the laid-back coastal charm of this picturesque town.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe.

Downtown SLO
• Lively atmosphere with shops and restaurants.
• Frequent events and farmer's market every Thursday.
California Polytechnic State University Area
• Home to vibrant student life and activities.
• Beautiful campus with stunning architecture and gardens.
Bishop Peak
• Outdoor adventures with hiking trails and vistas.
• Peaceful residential area close to nature.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Plan your visit to San Luis Obispo's top attractions with these tips for optimal experiences.

Hearst Castle
Visit on weekdays during the shoulder seasons to avoid large crowds.
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
Monday mornings offer a quieter, more relaxed viewing experience.
Bishop Peak
Early mornings provide solitude and breathtaking sunrise views.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters; the best times to visit are typically spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable. The pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities, making your travel experience vibrant and enjoyable throughout the year.

Dining in San Luis Obispo

A must-try dish in San Luis Obispo is the smoked tri-tip sandwich from the iconic Firestone Grill, offering a smoky, savory flavor that contrasts with Sacramento's diverse urban cuisine. This laid-back eatery not only highlights local ingredients but also provides an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of California’s Central Coast.

Sacramento - San Luis Obispo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Sacramento 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 Sacramento to Oakland

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$5-146

Bus from Oakland to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
$14-80

Bus from Sacramento to Stockton

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from San Jose to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
8h 36m
Estimated price
$14-140

Train from Sacramento to Richmond

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$141-142

Train from Richmond to San Francisco International Airport

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$502-503
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
5h 56m
Estimated price
$303-800
Website
aa.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
4h 43m
Estimated price
$306-307
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
4h 43m
Estimated price
$306-307
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$1232-1233

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

Traveling between Sacramento 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.

🚗 Begin your scenic road trip from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo, covering a driving distance of 295 miles through California's diverse landscapes. Enjoy approximately 5 hours of picturesque views along the way. 💰 The cost of the journey by car ranges between $50 to $80, offering an affordable and flexible travel option for those looking to explore the Central Coast region. Budget-friendly and convenient, driving allows for sightseeing stops and spontaneous adventures.
Average price
$50 - $80
🚆 Traveling by train from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo offers a scenic journey that takes approximately 8 hours and 36 minutes.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your trip from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo typically include catering options through Amtrak. You can enjoy a café featuring a variety of snacks, beverages, and hot meals. Be sure to check the menu upon boarding, as it can vary by train. You may also want to bring your own food for the journey.
• The Amtrak train on this route offers a range of seating options, including Coach (Economy) and Business Class. Business Class provides more legroom and is quieter, making it perfect for working or relaxing. For a more economical option, Coach Class offers comfortable seating, though it can get busy. You can check seating availability on the official Amtrak website.
• Make sure to visit the Amtrak website (amtrak.com) to explore the different operators on this route, as there might be variations in schedule. Operators include Amtrak itself, which primarily runs the train service. For additional local transport options and schedules in San Luis Obispo, you can visit the SLO Transit website (slotransit.org). After you arrive in San Luis Obispo, you can expect a small station that does not offer luggage storage but has restrooms available for your convenience.
🛫 Flying from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo involves a one-stop flight that lasts about 5 hours and 43 minutes. Airlines such as Southwest, American, Alaska, and United offer this route. 🌴 Upon arrival in San Luis Obispo, travelers can expect a total journey time of approximately 6 hours and 1 minute by air. The airport is a convenient gateway to the beautiful Central Coast region of California. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Sacramento and San Luis Obispo range from $183 to $655, making it a relatively affordable and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 43m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Since there are no direct flights from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo, consider booking with Southwest Airlines or American Airlines for better layover options, as they typically offer more frequent flights with shorter layovers.
• Upon arrival at San Luis Obispo County Airport (SBP), take note of the signage directing you to baggage claim and rental car services, as the airport is relatively small; if you need a taxi, they are readily available just outside the terminal, with fares averaging around $25 to the city center.
• For a seamless experience, check your flight status on your airline's website or download their app, as this will provide up-to-date information on your journey and layovers; websites for your flight options include Southwest Airlines (southwest.com), American Airlines (aa.com), Alaska Airlines (alaskaair.com), and United Airlines (united.com).
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo, travelers can take a bus service operated by Flixbus USA with transfers in Oakland, making the journey approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between San Luis Obispo and Sacramento range from $30 to $123, offering multiple options for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the route of around 275 miles with 2 transfers along the way. 🚌 For those seeking alternative routes, options include a 7-hour 32-minute journey with one transfer in San Francisco or a longer 10-hour 33-minute route with stops in San Francisco and Los Angeles before reaching San Luis Obispo. Each option provides a unique travel experience for passengers exploring this scenic California route by bus.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo is by taking the train. The train ticket prices range from $14 to $140, depending on the class and time of travel. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 36 minutes. This option is economical and allows you to enjoy scenic views along the way.
The fastest way to travel from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo is by driving, which typically takes around 4 hours and 57 minutes. The approximate cost of the drive is $50 to $80, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. It is important to consider traffic conditions and any potential road closures before embarking on the journey.
The distance between Sacramento and San Luis Obispo is approximately 234 miles. If you were to drive, the road distance is approximately 295 miles. The actual travel time and distance may vary depending on the specific route and traffic conditions.
The best way to travel from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate routes between the two cities, and the journey takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes. The ticket prices vary depending on the bus company and the time of travel, ranging from $30 to $130. Booking your ticket in advance can help you secure a lower fare.
The travel time from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo is approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes. This includes any necessary transfers during the journey. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on the specific train or transportation option chosen. It is always recommended to check with the transportation provider for the most accurate and up-to-date travel information.
The cheapest option to travel from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo is by bus, with fares ranging from $30 to $130. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train, which costs between $14 and $140, and takes about 8 hours and 36 minutes. If you prefer a faster option but at a higher cost, flying is also available, with flight durations averaging around 5 hours and 47 minutes, and prices ranging from $180 to $600.
There are plenty of accommodation options in San Luis Obispo. There are over 213 hotels available at various price ranges. Prices start at $45 per night for budget-friendly options. Some popular hotels in the area include Madonna Inn, Apple Farm Inn, and the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Luis Obispo.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo. The driving distance is about 295 miles, and it takes approximately 4 hours and 57 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. You can take Highway 99 South and then transition onto Highway 46 West to reach San Luis Obispo. Make sure to plan your route and check for any road closures or construction beforehand.
Yes, there is a bus route from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo. However, there is no direct bus that operates between the two cities. Passengers would have to take a bus from Sacramento to Oakland, and then transfer to another bus that goes to San Luis Obispo. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo at the Sacramento station. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station in time for departure.
The bus from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo arrives at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station. The station is conveniently located in downtown San Luis Obispo, making it easy to explore the city's attractions upon arrival. From the station, you can easily access other parts of San Luis Obispo via public transportation or taxis. Make sure to check the bus schedule and plan your journey accordingly.
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines offer flights from Sacramento International Airport to San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport. These airlines provide multiple flight options throughout the day, allowing travelers to choose a convenient departure time. It is recommended to check with each airline for current schedules and fares as they may vary.
The fastest way to get from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo by plane is to fly with one stopover. The quickest flight takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines are airlines that offer flights from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo. The flight prices range from $183 to $555.
The flight from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo does not have a direct route. The quickest flight option includes one stopover and takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. There are multiple airlines that offer this route with varying durations and stopover locations. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most up-to-date information and to compare prices and flight options.
Trains from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo arrive at the San Luis Obispo station. This is the final destination for the train journey. The San Luis Obispo station is conveniently located near downtown and various accommodations and attractions in the city. Passengers can disembark at this station and proceed with their travel plans in San Luis Obispo.
Yes, there is a direct train between Sacramento and San Luis Obispo. The train departs from Sacramento once daily and operates every day. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 36 minutes.
To catch the train from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo you will need to go to the Sacramento station. This is the main train station in Sacramento and is located at 401 I St. Once you arrive at the station, you can check the departure boards or ask station staff for the platform and train number for your journey to San Luis Obispo. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The cost of a flight from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo ranges from $183 to $555. The price varies depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is recommended to check multiple airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
The cost of a train ticket from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo ranges from $14 to $140 depending on factors such as the class of service and booking in advance. The prices can also vary depending on the time of year and availability. It is recommended to check with the train company or travel websites for the most accurate and updated pricing information.
The cost of a bus ticket from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo can range from $30 to $123, depending on the bus company, the time of year, and when you book your ticket. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Some popular bus companies that operate this route include Greyhound and FlixBus.
The cost to drive from Sacramento to San Luis Obispo typically ranges from $50 to $80 depending on factors such as fuel prices and type of vehicle. This estimate includes expenses for gasoline and tolls, but it may vary due to individual driving habits and road conditions. It is recommended to use online map services to calculate the distance and get the most accurate estimation for your specific travel plans.

Trips from Sacramento

Trips to San Luis Obispo