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San Diego, CA, USA to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA from $19: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): 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.

$19 - Train, BusBest price
474 kmDistance
4h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$113-489
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  19m
Estimated price
$19-154
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 474 km
Duration: 4h 6m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  35m
Estimated price
$28-116
Company
Amtrak
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  30m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h 
Estimated price
$50-80
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Traveling From San Diego to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Traveling from San Diego to Santa Maria offers you a fascinating contrast between the vibrant coastal energy of San Diego and the serene, picturesque landscapes of Santa Barbara County.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Santa Maria offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Santa Maria
• Vibrant dining scene with diverse cuisine options.
• Close to local shops and cultural attractions.
Orcutt
• Known for its friendly community feel.
• Access to beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
Historic Santa Maria
• Rich in history and charming architecture.
• Home to unique shops and local events.

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

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Santa Maria experience.

Santa Maria Valley Wine Country
Visit during the weekdays in late spring to enjoy peaceful tastings.
Santa Maria Public Museum
Explore this gem in the early afternoons to avoid busy weekends.
Waller Park
Early mornings or weekdays offer a tranquil outdoor atmosphere.

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

Santa Maria enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting in the spring or fall can provide you with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Try the Santa Maria-style barbecue at a local spot like Flag Is Up Farms, where you'll savor the unique blend of oak wood fire flavors, distinct spices, and locally sourced meats. This dining experience contrasts with San Diego's seafood-focused cuisine, offering you a hearty, communal atmosphere that celebrates the region's rich agricultural heritage.

San Diego - Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Diego and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), 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
$1132-1133
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
$1130-1134
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
5h 54m
Estimated price
$1130-1135

Train from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$0-0
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
$4896-4897

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Maria

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$4898-4899

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Santa Maria

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$1135-4893
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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 Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between San Diego 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 road trip from San Diego to Santa Maria, spanning a scenic driving distance of 294 miles. Allow approximately 5 hours to journey from the vibrant city of San Diego to the charming town of Santa Maria. 💰 The prices for traveling by car from San Diego to Santa Maria typically range from $50 to $80, offering an affordable and flexible option for exploration. Experience the freedom of the open road as you make your way through the diverse landscapes of Southern California.
Average price
$50 - $80
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County is a convenient and efficient option for travelers. The quickest direct flight from San Diego Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport is just 1 hour and 13 minutes. 🌊 Upon landing at San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, travelers can expect a total flight time of 4 hours and 6 minutes to reach Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County. Both Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines operate flights on this route, providing passengers with options for their journey. 💸 Depending on the time of booking and availability, the prices for flights between Santa Maria and San Diego can range from $113 to $489. Travelers can choose the best option based on their budget and schedule for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🌅 The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes, offering passengers a scenic route through Southern California. 💰 Tickets for the bus trip from San Diego to Santa Maria range from $28 to $116, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those exploring the Central Coast of California.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Santa Maria station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Santa Maria is approximately 245 miles. By train and bus, it takes about 8 hours and 19 minutes to travel between the two cities. If traveling by plane, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 4 minutes. Driving by car takes around 5 hours, while taking a bus can take about 7 hours and 35 minutes to reach Santa Maria from San Diego.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to Santa Maria is by bus, with ticket prices ranging from $28 to $120. Although it takes 7 hours and 35 minutes, it is a more affordable choice. However, for a time-efficient option, flying is the fastest way to reach Santa Maria, taking only 4 hours and 4 minutes. Flight prices range from $110 to $350.
The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Maria and San Diego can range from $28 to $116. The actual price may depend on factors such as the time and date of travel, the specific bus company, and any discounts or promotions that may be available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.
To travel from San Diego to Santa Maria without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 294 miles, and it takes around 5 hours to make the journey by car. The cost of gas and tolls may vary, but it is estimated to be between $50 and $80.
To travel from San Diego to Santa Maria without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes and can cost between $28 and $120. The bus is a convenient mode of transportation, allowing you to sit back and relax while enjoying the views along the way.
Yes, there is a link between San Diego and Santa Maria, but there is no direct bus service available. However, travelers can take a bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Union Station, and then transfer to another bus that goes to Santa Maria. The total travel time, including transfers, takes approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA.
The flight between San Diego and Santa Maria typically takes around 1 hour and 14 minutes. The cost of this flight can vary between $113 and $349, depending on factors such as the airline and the time of booking. It is important to check for any potential discounts or promotions that may be available.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Santa Maria. With over 64 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of accommodations to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in the area start at $59 per night, offering affordable options for those on a tighter budget. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts or cozy bed and breakfasts, Santa Maria has a variety of options to cater to different needs and preferences.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)