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San Diego, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $14: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Diego 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
523 kmDistance
3h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$112-487
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  38m
Estimated price
$14-140
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 523 km
Duration: 3h 33m

See more options

Company
Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
8h  30m
Estimated price
$30-121
Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  35m
Estimated price
$30-121
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  31m
Estimated price
$55-85
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to San Luis Obispo

Embark on a journey from the vibrant beaches and bustling city life of San Diego to the charming, relaxed atmosphere of San Luis Obispo, where scenic landscapes and a slower pace await you.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

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

Downtown SLO
• Vibrant dining and shopping options
• Home to local art galleries
Cerro San Luis
• Scenic hiking trails with stunning views
• Close proximity to natural reserves
Edna Valley
• Renowned wine tasting experiences
• Picturesque rolling vineyards and landscapes

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in San Luis Obispo's attractions.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and fewer tourists.
Bubblegum Alley
Go during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy the sights!
San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market
Arrive right at 6 PM on Thursdays for the best vendors and atmosphere.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

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

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

For a unique dining experience, try the duck confit tacos at Luna Red, where farm-to-table freshness meets a vibrant atmosphere, setting it apart from the coastal Mexican flavors in San Diego. The emphasis on local ingredients and artisanal touches provides a refreshing twist that showcases the region's culinary identity.

San Diego - San Luis Obispo operators

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

Plane Show flights
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 Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
8h 38m
Estimated price
$14-140
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$4870-55

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

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$4871-4872
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Other from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0

Other from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between San Diego 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 scenic road trip from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, covering a total distance of 325 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of Southern and Central California along the journey. 💰 The cost of driving from San Diego to San Luis Obispo ranges from $55 to $85, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience of a car ride for this adventure. ⏱️ With an approximate driving time of 5 hours and 31 minutes, you'll have ample opportunity to make pit stops, explore charming towns en route, and create lasting memories on this memorable road trip.
Average price
$55 - $85
🎟️ The Amtrak train offers convenient services departing twice daily, making it easy to plan your trip to San Luis Obispo. 🌊 The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 38 minutes, allowing you to unwind and experience the beauty of the coastal landscapes. 💸 Ticket prices for the San Diego to San Luis Obispo train range from $14 to $140, providing affordable options for travelers seeking a comfortable and leisurely way to explore the stunning Central Coast region of California.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner operates the route from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, providing a pleasant onboard experience. Catering services include a café car where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. Be sure to check out the seasonal offerings and local wines that may be featured in their menu.
• On the Pacific Surfliner, you have multiple seating options: Coach Class offers comfortable reclining seats with ample legroom, while Business Class provides larger seats with additional amenities such as complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and more spacious accommodations. First Class isn't available on this line, but Coach and Business Class are great choices for comfort.
• At the San Luis Obispo station, you can find luggage storage facilities if you wish to explore the area before checking into your accommodation. The station also has restrooms available for use, but there are no shower facilities. After arrival, a convenient way to reach the city center is by taking the SLO Transit Bus #12, which runs regularly and takes about 10 minutes to get to downtown.
🛫 Flying from San Diego to San Luis Obispo is a breeze with a quick direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 13 minutes. Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines are the carriers offering flights on this route. 🌴 Enjoy the convenience of reaching San Luis Obispo from San Diego in just 3 hours and 33 minutes by plane. Take in scenic views and relax onboard as you head to your destination. 💸 Prices for flights between San Luis Obispo and San Diego can range from $112 to $487, depending on the airline and time of booking. Plan ahead to find the best deals for your trip.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book early morning flights with Alaska Airlines or United Airlines for the best rates; prices can range from $112 to $487 depending on the time of booking and season.
• Upon arrival at San Luis Obispo County Airport, expect a compact terminal; grab your bags and head straight to the ground transportation area for quick access to taxis or rideshares.
• For transportation from the airport to downtown San Luis Obispo, budget approximately $30 to $40 for a taxi ride; consider checking local transport schedules on the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority's website for alternatives: slorta.org
🚌 Unfortunately, there is no direct bus from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. Travelers will need to take a route that includes transfers in Los Angeles Union Station. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes. 🌉 Route 1 involves 2 transfers and takes around 9 hours and 43 minutes to reach San Luis Obispo from San Diego. The first step is a bus towards Los Angeles with Greyhound, followed by a bus towards San Francisco, also with Greyhound. The final leg of the journey is a bus towards Government Center with SoCo Transit. 🎫 The prices of a bus ticket between San Luis Obispo and San Diego can vary from $30 to $121. Travelers can contact Greyhound for more information on the specific routes and schedules for this trip.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and San Luis Obispo is approximately 269 miles, with a road distance of 325 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a train from San Diego to San Luis Obispo typically takes 8 hours and 38 minutes. Alternatively, combining a train journey to Los Angeles and then flying to San Luis Obispo County Airport can take around 7 hours and 4 minutes. Flying directly from San Diego to San Luis Obispo takes about 3 hours and 31 minutes, while driving by car takes approximately 5 hours and 31 minutes. Taking a bus from San Diego to San Luis Obispo usually takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to San Luis Obispo is by train, with prices ranging from $14 to $140. However, this option takes the longest time, at 8 hours and 38 minutes. For a faster option, flying is the best choice, with a travel time of 3 hours and 31 minutes. The cost for this option ranges from $110 to $350. Considering both cost and time efficiency, flying is the recommended choice for travelers looking to reach San Luis Obispo from San Diego.
The prices for a train journey from San Diego to San Luis Obispo range from $14 to $140 depending on the class of service and availability. On the other hand, bus fares between the two cities can vary from $30 to $121 depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. It is always recommended to check for discounts and promotions, as prices may fluctuate.
To get from San Diego to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 325 miles, and it takes about 5 hours and 31 minutes to drive. The cost of driving can vary between $55 to $85, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
There are a few options to travel from San Diego to San Luis Obispo without a car. The best way is to take a bus, which takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes and costs $30-$130. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 31 minutes and costs $110-$350. Lastly, you could also take a train, which takes approximately 8 hours and 38 minutes and costs $14-$140.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Diego and San Luis Obispo by train. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 38 minutes and there are two departures daily. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities, but it is possible to take a bus with a transfer in Los Angeles, which takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes.
The flight between San Diego and San Luis Obispo typically takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes. The price of the flight can range from $112 to $347, depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability. It is advised to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight durations and costs.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in San Luis Obispo. With over 213 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in the area start at $45 per night, providing affordable options for those on a budget. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to San Luis Obispo