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Salinas, CA, USA to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA from $9: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Salinas, United States of America
to
Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), United States of America

How to Get from Salinas to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$9 - Train, BusBest price
222 kmDistance
2h 39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Salinas to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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
Bus
Average Duration
3h  40m
Estimated price
$15-60
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$9-108
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 222 km
Duration: 2h 39m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  39m
Estimated price
$28-45

Traveling From Salinas to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

The journey from Salinas, known for its agricultural richness and vibrant local culture, to Santa Maria, famed for its beautiful coastal scenery and barbecue traditions, offers travelers a delightful contrast of experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Santa Maria boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and attractions.

Downtown Santa Maria
• Bustling with shops and local eateries.
• Hosts vibrant community events throughout the year.
Orcutt
• Known for its tranquil, suburban atmosphere.
• Features scenic parks and outdoor activities.
Mesa Verde
• Offers stunning views of the Santa Maria Valley.
• Family-friendly, with excellent schools nearby.

Best Times To Visit Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)'s Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can greatly enhance your experience in Santa Maria.

Santa Maria Valley Wine Country
Visit during the weekdays in late spring for fewer crowds and blooming vines.
Santa Maria Museum of Flight
Early mornings on weekends provide a quieter, personal experience with exhibits.
Fairpark
Check out events in the off-peak hours, especially weekdays, for a more relaxed visit.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Maria enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round, making any season a potential time for your visit. Coastal breezes and moderate rainfall in winter can affect outdoor plans, so checking the forecast helps in optimizing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Indulge in Santa Maria's renowned tri-tip barbecue at a local favorite like Jocko's Steak House, where the smoky flavors and casual atmosphere create a delightful contrast to Salinas' farm-to-table offerings. The experience here showcases regional ingredients and a distinct cooking style that connects you to the area's traditions.

Salinas - Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) operators

Explore transport companies operating between Salinas and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), 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 Santa Maria

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$15-60

Bus from San Luis Obispo to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop - IHOP

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$154-150
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to Santa Maria

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$15-60
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Salinas to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$5-90

Salinas to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Salinas and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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 journey from Salinas to Santa Maria, spanning 158 miles of stunning California landscape. The drive, taking around 2 hours and 39 minutes, offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty along the way. 💰 Prices for the road trip from Salinas to Santa Maria typically range between $28 and $45, providing an affordable and flexible travel option. Make sure to plan your budget accordingly to make the most of your trip exploring Santa Barbara County.
Average price
$28 - $45
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Salinas to Santa Maria, covering a distance of 143 miles in just 3 hours and 55 minutes. Enjoy the beautiful California landscapes along the way as you travel towards Santa Barbara. 🚌 The trip includes a bus transfer towards Santa Barbara as part of the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes, offering a convenient and comfortable way to reach Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop.
There are direct buses departing every three hours from Salinas Amtrak Station and arriving at Santa Maria station, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. 🌴 Enjoy a scenic ride covering the 143-mile distance from Salinas to Santa Maria, with bus services operated by Amtrak. Whether you choose a route with no transfers or opt for a route with a transfer, you can relax and let the driver handle the journey while you sit back and take in the views. 🎫 Prices for the bus ride between Santa Maria and Salinas range from $15 to $60, offering an affordable and convenient option for your travel needs. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you make your way from Salinas to the beautiful Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County by bus.
Departure Point
Salinas Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Santa Maria station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Salinas to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County).

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The distance between Salinas and Santa Maria is 138 miles, with a road distance of 158 miles. If you prefer to travel by train and then Amtrak Thruway, it will take approximately 4 hours and 16 minutes to reach Santa Maria from Salinas. Alternatively, if you choose to drive, the travel time is approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes from Santa Maria to Salinas.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Salinas to Santa Maria is taking the Amtrak Thruway, which costs $15-$60. This option takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. However, the quickest way to travel between the two cities is by driving, which takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes and costs $28-$45 in fuel expenses.
To travel from Salinas to Santa Maria without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 158 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete the journey. The cost of driving can vary, with prices ranging from $28 to $45 depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and tolls.
The best way to travel from Salinas to Santa Maria without a car is to take the Amtrak Thruway. The Amtrak Thruway service takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes and can cost between $15-$60. This transportation option provides a convenient and comfortable way to reach Santa Maria without the need for a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between Salinas and Santa Maria. Amtrak operates bus services that depart from the Salinas Amtrak Station and arrive at the Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, with five departures available daily. This provides a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Maria with a wide range of hotels to choose from. At least 64 hotels are available with prices starting at $59 per night. Visitors can find a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or contact local travel agencies for more details and to find the best option that suits individual needs.

Trips to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)