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San Francisco, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $21: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Francisco 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.

$21 by busBest price
374 kmDistance
3h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  25m
Estimated price
$21-75
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Train
Average Duration
7h  39m
Estimated price
$18-122
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 374 km
Duration: 3h 47m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
7h  24m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  36m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  47m
Estimated price
$179-442
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Traveling From San Francisco to San Luis Obispo

The journey from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo offers contrasting experiences, with the bustling city life of San Francisco giving way to the laid-back charm and natural beauty of the Central Coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown San Luis Obispo
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene
• Iconic Thursday night farmers' market
Avila Beach
• Picturesque beachfront views
• Great local seafood restaurants
Cerro San Luis
• Scenic hiking trails with panoramic views
• Peaceful residential vibe

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your San Luis Obispo experience.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Bubblegum Alley
Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for better photo opportunities.
San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
Visit during weekday mornings to enjoy the tranquility and blooming flowers.

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 an attractive destination year-round. Visiting in spring or fall offers ideal weather conditions for outdoor activities and events, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

Try the famous tri-tip sandwich at Firestone Grill, where the smoky flavor and simplicity showcase local ingredients in a relaxed setting. Unlike San Francisco's bustling culinary scene, dining here offers a cozy atmosphere that emphasizes hearty comfort food with a distinctly regional twist.

San Francisco - San Luis Obispo operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$21-75
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$216-217

Train from San Jose to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
4h 58m
Estimated price
$750-751
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$170-210

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$214-215
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Other from Oakland to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
7h 24m
Estimated price
$0-0

Other from UC Santa Barbara Amtrak Bus Stop to San Luis Obispo Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between San Francisco 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 Francisco to San Luis Obispo, covering a distance of 232 miles 🌉. Enjoy approximately 4 hours of picturesque views and diverse landscapes along the way ⛰️. 💵 Explore budget-friendly options as the prices for driving from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo range from $40 to $65 💰. Plan your trip wisely to make the most of your travel budget and enjoy the journey without breaking the bank 🛣️.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚂 Travelling by train from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo involves a journey with transfers, taking approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes. 🚂 The total distance of the trip is 248 miles, with ticket prices ranging from $18 to $122 for this scenic train journey from the Bay Area to the Central Coast of California.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
🛫 Flying from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is convenient with a quick direct flight taking only 1 hour and 13 minutes. United Airlines provides flights for this route, offering a relatively short travel time. 🛄 The total duration of the flight from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes. This allows for a comfortable journey between the two California cities. 💸 Flight prices between San Luis Obispo and San Francisco can range from $179 to $442, offering travelers a variety of options based on their budget and preferences. Booking in advance can often result in finding more affordable fares for this route.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo by bus is a convenient option, with a direct service operated by Flixbus USA. The journey takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes. 🛣️ The route covers a distance of approximately 206 miles and offers a comfortable ride with various amenities onboard. With services departing once daily, you can easily plan your trip to coincide with your schedule. 💰 Ticket prices for the San Francisco to San Luis Obispo bus route range from $21 to $75, making it an affordable and efficient way to travel between these two California cities. The final stop is at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, allowing you to start your getaway in this charming coastal town.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to check the Flixbus schedule ahead of time, as they offer just one daily departure from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo; find the latest schedule at flixbus.com
• As you approach San Luis Obispo, prepare for the scenic views along the Central Coast, and consider taking advantage of this time by downloading some travel podcasts or music playlists that highlight the area's culture and history.
• Upon arrival at San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, take a moment to explore the vicinity; there are several great dining options within walking distance, including Firestone Grill for delicious tri-tip sandwiches and Novo Restaurant & Lounge for a sit-down meal with lovely outdoor seating; check out their menus at firestonegrill.com and novoslowcooking.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is by bus. It costs between $21 and $75 and takes approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. There are several bus companies that offer this route, providing a cost-effective option for travelers on a budget. Booking in advance or taking advantage of any available discounts can help ensure you get the best deal.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is by flying. There are direct flights available from San Francisco International Airport to San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, which will take approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket typically ranges from $150 to $450. Alternatively, you can also drive, which takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The distance from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is approximately 199 miles. If you are traveling by road, the distance is slightly longer at 232.5 miles. The driving distance may vary depending on the route and traffic conditions. It typically takes around 3-4 hours to drive from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo, but this can vary depending on the speed and stops along the way.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey usually takes around 5 hours and 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Several bus companies operate on this route, offering affordable fares ranging from $21 to $75. It's a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers who prefer not to drive.
The bus journey from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo takes approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes, including transfers. Buses depart from San Francisco three times a day. However, it is worth noting that travel times may vary depending on traffic and other factors. It is advisable to check the schedule of the bus service you plan to use for the most up-to-date information.
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is by bus, with ticket prices ranging from $21 to $75. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for the combination of Caltrain and train, which takes longer at 7 hours and 38 minutes, but costs between $17 and $130. Another option is to fly, which is the fastest method with a travel time of 3 hours and 39 minutes, but ticket prices range from $150 to $450. Choose the transportation that suits your budget and time constraints.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in San Luis Obispo. You can find a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious ones. Prices start at $45 per night, depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 232 miles. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 58 minutes, depending on traffic and the route taken. It's important to note that road conditions and travel times may vary, so it's always a good idea to check for any updates or potential delays before your trip.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Francisco and San Luis Obispo. The bus service operates three times a day and runs every day. The journey from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo takes approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes. This makes it a convenient and direct option for travelers seeking transportation between the two cities.
To catch the bus from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo you can go to the San Francisco station. This is where the bus services, operated by Amtrak, depart from. The San Francisco station is conveniently located in the city for easy access. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station ahead of time to ensure a smooth departure.
The bus from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo arrives at the San Luis Obispo station. This is the final destination for the bus route operated by Amtrak. The San Luis Obispo station is centrally located in the city, making it convenient for travelers to access nearby attractions and accommodations. Upon arrival, passengers can easily continue their journey or explore the surrounding area.
United Airlines is the only airline that offers direct flights between San Francisco and San Luis Obispo. They operate flights from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. It is recommended to check the airline's website or use a flight booking platform to find the most up-to-date schedule and pricing for these flights.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is by taking a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, which usually takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. United Airlines offers flights on this route. The total travel time by plane from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo is approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes. The ticket prices for flights between these two cities range from $159 to $442.
The flight from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. This is considered a direct flight, meaning there are no layovers or stops along the way. The distance between the two cities is around 180 miles. It's a convenient and efficient option for travelers looking to reach San Luis Obispo quickly.
Trains from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo arrive at the San Luis Obispo station. This station is conveniently located in downtown San Luis Obispo. It is a small and easily accessible station with parking facilities available. Upon arrival, passengers can easily explore the city or take local transportation to their final destinations.
Yes, there is no direct train between San Francisco and San Luis Obispo. However, there are train services available that require a transfer. The journey begins at San Francisco Caltrain station and requires a transfer at San Jose. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 38 minutes.
To catch the train from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo you will need to go to the San Francisco Caltrain station. The train services are operated by Caltrain and provide a convenient and comfortable option for travel between the two cities. The station is easily accessible and offers various amenities for passengers. Make sure to check the train schedules in advance and arrive at the station with plenty of time before departure.
The cost of a flight from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo can range from $159 to $442, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It's recommended to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to get the best deals. Additionally, it's worth considering alternative airports nearby to potentially find cheaper flights.
The cost of a train ticket from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo can range from $18 to $122, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with the train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, students, and military personnel, so it's worth inquiring about those options.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo can range from $21 to $75, depending on factors such as the time of travel and the type of bus service chosen. Prices typically vary based on the amenities offered on board, such as Wi-Fi or extra legroom. It's recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the most affordable option for your journey.
The cost of driving from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo typically ranges from $40 to $65, depending on factors such as vehicle efficiency and fuel prices. This estimate includes fuel costs for the round trip of approximately 310 miles. It is important to note that these costs may vary based on individual driving habits and current gas prices. Additionally, other expenses such as tolls and parking fees should be considered when calculating the total cost of the trip.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to San Luis Obispo