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San Francisco, CA, USA to Pismo Beach, CA, USA from $23: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco 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.

$23 by busBest price
335 kmDistance
3h 57m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  57m
Estimated price
$179-443
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  30m
Estimated price
$23-138
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 335 km
Duration: 3h 57m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  38m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  24m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  24m
Estimated price
$214-460
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Traveling From San Francisco to Pismo Beach

The journey from San Francisco to Pismo Beach offers a striking contrast, as you transition from the bustling city life and iconic landmarks to the serene coastal landscapes and relaxed atmosphere of California's Central Coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach features charming neighborhoods that cater to different interests and activities.

Shell Beach
• Stunning ocean views and dramatic cliffs.
• Quaint dining spots with coastal cuisine.
Downtown Pismo Beach
• Walkable area with shops and local eateries.
• Vibrant atmosphere near the famous pier.
Pismo Heights
• Offers panoramic views of the coastline.
• Peaceful residential vibe, ideal for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Pismo Beach's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Pismo Beach's attractions by timing your visits right.

Pismo Beach Pier
Visit early mornings for stunning sunrises and fewer crowds.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
Aim for mid-November through February to see butterflies at their peak.
Dinosaur Caves Park
Weekday afternoons are ideal for a quieter experience with family-friendly activities.

Pismo Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pismo Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Spring and fall are especially ideal for visiting, as temperatures are comfortable and crowds tend to be lighter, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Pismo Beach

Try the clam chowder at Splash Cafe, a local favorite that showcases the coastal bounty of the region with its rich, creamy flavor and fresh clams. This casual dining experience, complete with ocean views, contrasts with San Francisco's more upscale gourmet scene, allowing you to savor simplified yet delightful dishes that celebrate local ingredients.

San Francisco - Pismo Beach operators

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

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$1791-1792

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Bakersfield (BFL)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$1791-1793
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$1794-1795

Train from San Jose to Paso Robles Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
$1798-17945
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Paso Robles Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
$1798-17945
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$4436-4437

Bus from Salinas Amtrak Station to Grover Beach

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

Bus from Paso Robles Amtrak Station to Grover Beach

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

Other from Paso Robles Amtrak Station to Grover Beach

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$4438-4439

Other from San Jose to Grover Beach Amtrak

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between San Francisco 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 bustling San Francisco to the picturesque shores of Pismo Beach, covering a distance of 245 miles. Enjoy the journey as you cruise along the iconic California coastline, passing through charming towns and rugged cliffs. 💰 The cost of your road trip adventure from San Francisco to Pismo Beach ranges from $40 to $65, depending on factors such as gas prices and any tolls along the way. Budget-conscious travelers can opt to carpool or split the cost with friends for a more affordable trip. 🏖️ Arrive in Pismo Beach after approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes of driving, ready to soak up the sun on sandy beaches, explore quaint shops and restaurants, and unwind in this laid-back coastal paradise. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, your journey from San Francisco to Pismo Beach promises unforgettable memories.
Average price
$40 - $65
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from San Francisco to Pismo Beach by taking a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, operated by United Airlines, with a flight time of just 1 hour and 13 minutes. 🏖️ Upon arriving at San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, it will take you approximately 3 hours and 57 minutes to reach the beautiful coastal town of Pismo Beach. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views from the airplane as you make your way to your destination. 💸 The prices for flights between Pismo Beach and San Francisco can range from $179 to $443, providing flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from San Francisco to Pismo Beach, travelers can take a route that includes transfers, taking approximately 7 hours and 38 minutes. 🚍 Route options vary in duration, with the quickest journey lasting around 6 hours and 27 minutes to cover the 219-mile distance from San Francisco to Pismo Beach. The common transfer point is in Santa Barbara.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Grover Beach station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Pismo Beach is 208 miles by air. Traveling by plane typically takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes. By car, the road distance is 245 miles, and the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes. Another option is taking public transportation; it takes around 9 hours and 19 minutes by using Caltrain, train, and bus, or 7 hours and 3 minutes by bus alone.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Pismo Beach is by bus, with prices ranging from $25 to $85 and a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 43 minutes. This option is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who have more time to spare. On the other hand, the quickest option is to fly, with prices ranging from $150 to $450 and a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes. This option is recommended for those who prioritize saving time over cost.
To get from San Francisco to Pismo Beach without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 245 miles, and it takes approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Pismo Beach. The cost of driving varies between $40 to $65, depending on factors such as vehicle fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Pismo Beach without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 3 minutes. Taking a bus is a convenient and cost-effective option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
There is no direct bus link between San Francisco and Pismo Beach. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey typically takes around 7 hours and 3 minutes, including the transfers. The bus services are operated by Amtrak, with departures from San Francisco station and arrivals at Grover Beach Amtrak station.
The flight between San Francisco and Pismo Beach typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $159 and $443. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are a wide range of accommodation options near Pismo Beach. With over 162 hotels available, travelers have plenty of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in the area start at $45 per night, ensuring there is something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a luxurious beachfront resort or a budget-friendly motel, there are numerous options to choose from near Pismo Beach.

Trips from San Francisco