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San Diego, CA, USA to Pismo Beach, CA, USA from $15: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Diego, United States of America
to
Pismo Beach, United States of America

How to Get from San Diego 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.

$15 by trainBest price
422 kmDistance
3h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego 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
Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$112-488
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
9h  9m
Estimated price
$15-137
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 422 km
Duration: 3h 43m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  8m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
FlixBus and Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
10h  25m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  19m
Estimated price
$55-85
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Pismo Beach

Journey from the vibrant cityscape and sandy beaches of San Diego to the serene coastal town of Pismo Beach, where you can relish stunning cliffs and a relaxed atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach offers charming neighborhoods ideal for exploration and relaxation.

Shell Beach
• Local restaurants serve fresh seafood and coastal cuisine.
• Enjoy stunning ocean views and scenic coastal trails.
Downtown Pismo Beach
• Vibrant shops and boutiques line the picturesque streets.
• Easy access to the iconic Pismo Beach Pier.
Oceano Dunes
• Unique opportunity for off-roading on sandy trails.
• Close proximity to nature and diverse wildlife habitats.

Best Times To Visit Pismo Beach's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Pismo Beach experience.

Pismo Beach Pier
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning sunrises.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
Plan your visit from late October to February to see thousands of butterflies.
Oceano Dunes
Explore in the weekdays or off-peak hours for a quieter adventure.

Pismo Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pismo Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Clear skies and pleasant temperatures from late spring to early fall create ideal conditions for outdoor activities, while cooler months offer a quieter retreat.

Dining Recommendation in Pismo Beach

For a delightful contrast to San Diego’s vibrant taco scene, try the clam chowder bread bowl at Splash Cafe, where the cozy atmosphere embraces the essence of coastal dining. This local favorite showcases fresh, locally sourced clams and creamy goodness, providing a taste of Pismo Beach’s famous seafood heritage.

San Diego - Pismo Beach operators

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

Plane
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$140-850
Website
united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
$110-550
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Grover Beach Amtrak

Average Duration
8h 7m
Estimated price
$121-140
Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Los Angeles to Grover Beach Amtrak

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$1129-4880
Other Show other routes

Other from San Diego to Pismo Beach

Average Duration
5h 19m
Estimated price
$55-85

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

Traveling between San Diego 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 scenic road trip from San Diego to Pismo Beach, covering a distance of 312 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive along the beautiful California coastline. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel with prices ranging from $55 to $85 for the journey by car. Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of driving to your destination. 🌊 Arrive at Pismo Beach after approximately 5 hours and 19 minutes of driving, ready to explore the charming coastal town and relax on its pristine beaches. Plan your itinerary to include iconic landmarks and local attractions along the way.
Average price
$55 - $85
🚂 Take a scenic train journey from San Diego to Pismo Beach, which typically lasts about 9 hours and 9 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the coastal views as you travel up the California coast.
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Pismo Beach is a convenient option with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 13 minutes. Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines provide flights between San Diego Airport and San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. 🌊 Once you land at San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, it's a short 30-minute drive to reach the beautiful coastal town of Pismo Beach. Enjoy the scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Despite the lack of direct buses, travelers can easily reach Pismo Beach from San Diego with a journey time of approximately 10 hours and 8 minutes, including transfers. 🌊 Route options offer varying durations, with distances ranging from 280 to 318 miles and 2 to 4 transfers. Each step involves different bus services, such as Greyhound, FlixBus, Amtrak Thruway, and local transit agencies.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Grover Beach Amtrak station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to Pismo Beach.

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The distance between San Diego and Pismo Beach is approximately 262 miles, or 312.4 miles by road. Depending on the mode of transportation, typical travel times vary. By train, it takes around 9 hours and 9 minutes to reach Pismo Beach from San Diego. Alternatively, by taking a train to Los Angeles and then flying, the travel time is about 7 hours and 12 minutes. The fastest option is to fly directly, which takes approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes. If driving, the journey from San Diego to Pismo Beach takes around 5 hours and 19 minutes. Lastly, traveling by bus from San Diego to Pismo Beach typically takes about 10 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Diego to Pismo Beach is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $15 to $140. Although it takes about 9 hours and 9 minutes, it provides a budget-friendly option for travelers. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly, with a travel time of 3 hours and 41 minutes. Although more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $110 to $350, flying offers a significantly shorter travel time.
The prices for a train journey between San Diego and Pismo Beach range from $15 to $137 depending on the class and type of ticket chosen. It is advisable to book in advance to secure lower fares. Additionally, travelers have the option of taking a flight, which usually costs around $100 - $200 for a one-way ticket. Driving is also a popular option, with gasoline costs varying depending on the current fuel prices.
To travel from San Diego to Pismo Beach without public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 312 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 19 minutes to drive. The prices for renting a car or using your own vehicle can range from $55 to $85, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Pismo Beach without a car is by train. It takes approximately 9 hours and 9 minutes and costs between $15 and $140. Another option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $110 and $350. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, but the cost information was not provided.
No, there is no direct link between San Diego and Pismo Beach. However, there are options available with transfers. One way to travel would be to take a bus from San Diego to Los Angeles, then transfer to another bus that goes to Pismo Beach. This journey can take approximately 10 hours and 59 minutes. Another option is to take a train from San Diego to Grover Beach, and then take a local bus to Pismo Beach.
The flight between San Diego and Pismo Beach typically takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $112 to $348, depending on various factors such as the airline and the time of booking. Once you arrive at San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, the best way to get to Pismo Beach is by hiring a taxi or using a ride-sharing service. Additionally, there may be public transportation options available, such as buses or shuttles, depending on the airport and its proximity to Pismo Beach.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Pismo Beach over 162 hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $45 per night, so there are options for every type of traveler. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, you're sure to find suitable accommodation near Pismo Beach.

Trips from San Diego