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San Francisco, CA, USA to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA from $23: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco 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.

$23 by busBest price
362 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$23-85
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$23-85
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 362 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
7h  36m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  31m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$180-444
Company
Various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$212-455
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Traveling From San Francisco to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Embarking on a journey from San Francisco to Santa Maria offers an exciting contrast between the vibrant urban culture of the Bay Area and the laid-back charm of California's Central Coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Santa Maria features inviting neighborhoods that offer diverse experiences for visitors.

Downtown Santa Maria
• Vibrant arts scene with local galleries and theaters.
• Variety of dining options showcasing local flavors.
Orcutt
• Charming small-town atmosphere with boutique shops.
• Access to scenic parks and outdoor activities.
Los Padres National Forest
• Ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
• Stunning views and natural beauty around every corner.

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

Maximizing your experience in Santa Maria means timing your visits just right.

Santa Maria Valley Wine Country
Visit during weekdays in the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and a relaxed tasting experience.
Dune Beach
Early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and more solitude as you enjoy the scenery.
Historic Santa Maria Inn
Weekdays typically see fewer visitors, allowing for a more tranquil stay.

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

Santa Maria enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round, making it an inviting destination. Spring and fall present ideal conditions for outdoor activities, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Maria

For a culinary experience that stands apart from San Francisco’s diverse offerings, try the Santa Maria-style barbecue at The Hitching Post II, where succulent tri-tip is grilled over red oak, imparting a rich, smoky flavor. The casual, rustic atmosphere reflects local culture and emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients, making your meal a true taste of the Central Coast.

San Francisco - Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), 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 Santa Maria

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$23-85
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$234-235
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Other from San Jose to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
0-0

Other from UC Santa Barbara Amtrak Bus Stop to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$180-430

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

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$120-230

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

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$180-231
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$232-233

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

Traveling between San Francisco 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 scenic road trip from San Francisco to Santa Maria, covering a distance of 264 miles. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💸 Prices for the drive from San Francisco to Santa Maria range from $45 to $70, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. Consider fuel costs, tolls, and any potential stops for meals or sightseeing during the trip. 🌴 Arrive in Santa Maria after approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes of driving, ready to explore this picturesque region known for its vineyards, beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. Plan your itinerary to make the most of your visit to this beautiful destination.
Average price
$45 - $70
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Francisco to Santa Maria, covering a distance of 234 miles in approximately 6 hours and 37 minutes.
🛫 Flying from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport is a breeze with the quickest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 13 minutes with United Airlines. 🚗 Once you land in San Luis Obispo, it's a short 30-minute drive to reach Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County. The total travel time by plane from San Francisco to Santa Maria is approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🌳 Hop on the direct Flixbus USA service departing once daily and taking approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes to reach your destination. 🎟️ Pricing for this convenient bus ride can range from $23 - $85, offering an affordable and comfortable travel option between these two California destinations. 🌞 Enjoy the ease of travel as you sit back and relax on your way to Santa Maria from San Francisco. 🚍 Explore the 234-mile route from the bustling city of San Francisco to the charming Santa Maria in just over 5 hours by bus. 🌸 Discover the beauty of California's coast as you embark on this delightful journey through picturesque landscapes.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Santa Maria station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Francisco and Santa Maria is 225 miles, or 264 miles by road. By plane, it takes approximately 4 hours and 12 minutes to travel from San Francisco to Santa Maria. Another option is to fly to Santa Barbara and then take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 25 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it takes about 4 hours and 29 minutes, while a bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Santa Maria is by bus, with ticket prices ranging from $23 to $85. Although it takes longer, approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes, it is the cheaper alternative. On the other hand, the quickest option is to fly, with a flight time of 4 hours and 12 minutes. However, this option typically costs between $160 and $450. As a travel advisor, I would recommend considering the trade-off between cost and time when choosing the transportation option that best suits your needs.
The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Maria and San Francisco can range from $23 to $85. This may depend on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and the bus provider. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel needs.
One way to get from San Francisco to Santa Maria without using public transportation is by driving. The driving distance between the two cities is about 264 miles and it takes around 4 hours and 29 minutes to drive. The approximate cost for the trip by car ranges from $45 to $70, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from San Francisco to Santa Maria without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes and can cost between $23 and $85. There are several bus services available that offer this route, providing a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Santa Maria. Amtrak operates a daily bus service that departs from San Francisco and arrives at the Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes. Passengers can rely on this convenient option for direct transportation between the two cities.
The flight between San Francisco and Santa Maria typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between $160 and $444.
There are numerous options available for accommodation near Santa Maria with over 64 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $59 per night, offering a range of choices to suit different budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, Santa Maria offers a variety of options to cater to different preferences. It is advisable to check for availability and book in advance to secure the best deals and ensure a comfortable stay.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)