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San Jose, CA, USA to Pismo Beach, CA, USA from $13: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Jose 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.

$13 - Train, BusBest price
270 kmDistance
3h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  49m
Estimated price
$13-124
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 270 km
Duration: 3h 22m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
United Airlines, Caltrain
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$186-451
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Jose to Pismo Beach

The journey from San Jose to Pismo Beach presents a fascinating shift from the fast-paced tech city to the laid-back coastal charm of sandy shores and seaside sunsets.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach features neighborhoods that showcase its stunning coastal beauty and local charm.

Pismo Beach Pier
• Iconic pier with breathtaking ocean views.
• Bustling area with shops and restaurants.
Shell Beach
• Quiet, scenic beaches for relaxation.
• Great tide pooling and ocean exploration opportunities.
Dunes Estates
• Family-friendly atmosphere with spacious homes.
• Close to Pismo State Beach for outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Pismo Beach's Attractions

Planning your trip around peak times can enhance your Pismo Beach experience.

Pismo Beach Pier
Visit early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and stunning sunrises or sunsets.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
The best time is from late October to February when thousands of butterflies arrive.
Pismo State Beach
Midweek visits in the off-peak season provide a quieter beach experience.

Pismo Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pismo Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are from late spring to early fall, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and beach enjoyment.

Dining Recommendation in Pismo Beach

Try the clam chowder at Splash Café, a beloved local spot known for its hearty, creamy flavor made with fresh, local clams that contrasts with the diverse international cuisine of San Jose. The casual beachfront atmosphere and focus on coastal ingredients create a unique dining vibe that enhances the laid-back charm of your Pismo Beach experience.

San Jose - Pismo Beach operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose to Grover Beach

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Paso Robles Amtrak Station to Grover Beach

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from San Jose to Grover Beach (Night Bus)

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Paso Robles Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
$7-130
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$7-1241
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport

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

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

Traveling between San Jose 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 picturesque road trip from San Jose to Pismo Beach, covering a distance of 199 miles. The scenic drive promises around 3 hours and 22 minutes of stunning Californian landscapes along the way. 💰 Indulge in a budget-friendly journey with car rental prices ranging from $35 to $55 to reach the beautiful shores of Pismo Beach from San Jose. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom that comes with exploring this coastal gem at your own pace.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Jose to Pismo Beach covering a distance of 175 miles in approximately 7 hours and 54 minutes. The route promises a leisurely ride through California's picturesque landscapes. 🚌 Begin your trip with a 4-hour and 40-minute bus ride towards Santa Barbara as part of the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service. The bus, operated by Amtrak Chartered Vehicle, will transport you from San Jose to Grover Beach, offering a comfortable and convenient mode of travel.
🛫 The quickest flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport is a direct flight by United Airlines, taking just 1 hour and 13 minutes. 🏖️ After arriving at San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, it takes approximately 4 hours and 51 minutes to reach the beautiful coastal town of Pismo Beach from San Jose by plane. 💸 The prices for flights between Pismo Beach and San Jose can vary, ranging from $186 to $451, offering travelers flexibility based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Embark on an interesting journey from San Jose to Pismo Beach, though there's no direct bus route available. 🌊 The trip, spanning approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes, entails transfers along the way. 🚏 Amtrak operates the bus services connecting these two Californian cities. 🛤️ Route options vary in duration and distance, such as a 175-mile journey taking around 4 hours and 54 minutes. 🌅 Depending on the chosen route, travelers may experience different durations but consistent transfers towards Santa Barbara. 🚌 Explore the scenic ride and plan your itinerary accordingly for an enjoyable adventure. 📍 Whether taking a 202-mile trip with two transfers or opting for a quicker route, each bus journey provides a unique travel experience to reach the beautiful shores of Pismo Beach from San Jose. 🚍 Consider the available routes, transfer points, and enjoy the journey as you make your way to this coastal gem in California.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
Grover Beach station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Pismo Beach is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 160 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 22 minutes to drive there. The cost of fuel for the trip may range between $35 to $55, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose to Pismo Beach is by driving. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost for the drive is around $35 to $55. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to appreciate the beautiful scenery along the way.
The distance between San Jose and Pismo Beach is approximately 168 miles. If you're driving, the road distance is slightly longer at 198.7 miles. It usually takes around 3 hours and 22 minutes to drive from San Jose to Pismo Beach. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose.
The best way to travel from San Jose to Pismo Beach without a car is to take the Amtrak Thruway service. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes. The cost of the ticket may vary, so it is recommended to check the Amtrak website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Another alternative is to take a bus, such as Greyhound or Flixbus, which also provide transportation options between the two cities.
The travel time from San Jose to Pismo Beach is approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes, including any necessary transfers. The most efficient way to travel is by car, which takes about 3 hours and 22 minutes. However, if you prefer public transportation, you can take a combination of buses and trains, which may take longer but can be a more cost-effective option. It's always a good idea to check for any potential delays or schedule changes before your trip.
There are numerous accommodation options near Pismo Beach, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Some popular options include the Dolphin Bay Resort and Spa, Pismo Lighthouse Suites, and the SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel. Prices for hotels in Pismo Beach start at around $45 per night, depending on the time of year and specific hotel chosen. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices to find the best deal for your stay.
Yes, you can drive from San Jose to Pismo Beach. The driving distance is about 199 miles, and it typically takes around 3 hours and 22 minutes to complete the journey. This is a popular route for road trips, and driving allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore different attractions or scenic spots. Be sure to check for any road conditions or construction updates before your trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus between San Jose and Pismo Beach. However, there are bus services available that can get you from San Jose to Pismo Beach with a transfer. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 43 minutes. The buses depart from San Jose Diridon Station and arrive at Dolliver St @ San Luis Ave via West Grand Avenue @ 2nd Street WB.
The San Jose to Pismo Beach bus departs from the San Jose Diridon Station. San Jose Diridon Station is conveniently located in downtown San Jose, making it easily accessible for travelers. Amtrak operates the bus service, providing a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for your journey to Pismo Beach.
The San Jose to Pismo Beach bus service, operated by Amtrak, arrives at Grover Beach Amtrak station. Grover Beach Amtrak station is located in Grover Beach, California. It is a convenient location to disembark from the bus and start exploring Pismo Beach and its surroundings. Passengers can easily access taxis or local transportation options from the station to reach their final destination.
To get to Pismo Beach from San Jose Airport, you can take a bus from the airport to San Jose Diridon Station. From there, you can catch a train to either Grover Beach or Guadalupe, which are the nearest stations to Pismo Beach. Once you arrive at either of these stations, you can take a taxi or ride-share service to reach Pismo Beach. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to Pismo Beach, which is about a 3-hour drive.
Airlines that operate flights between San Jose and Pismo Beach include United Airlines. United Airlines offers flights from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, which is the closest airport to Pismo Beach. It is recommended to check the airline's website or contact them directly for specific flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to get from San Jose to Pismo Beach is by taking a flight. The quickest flight is a direct one from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, which takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. United Airlines offers flights between these two airports, and the total travel time from San Jose to Pismo Beach by plane is approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes. The prices of flights between these two destinations can range from $166 to $451.
The flight from San Jose to Pismo Beach is relatively short, with a direct flight taking approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. However, it's important to note that there are no airports in Pismo Beach itself, so travelers will need to fly to the nearby San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. From there, it's a short drive of about 15 minutes to Pismo Beach. Overall, flying is a convenient and efficient option for traveling between these two locations.
The cost of a flight from San Jose to Pismo Beach can range from $166 to $451, depending on various factors such as the date of travel and the airline. It's recommended to check with different airlines and use flight comparison websites to find the best deals. Additionally, booking in advance and being flexible with the travel dates can potentially help in finding cheaper flights.
The cost of driving from San Jose to Pismo Beach varies from $35 to $55, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. It is important to note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on the specific vehicle and driving conditions. Additionally, it is recommended to plan for extra expenses such as parking fees or any other unforeseen costs during the trip.

Trips from San Jose