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San Jose, CA, USA to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA from $11: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Jose to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$11 - Train, BusBest price
298 kmDistance
3h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose 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
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$20-75
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  38m
Estimated price
$11-124
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 298 km
Duration: 3h 42m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
Caltrain, Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$187-452
Company
Caltrain, Various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  26m
Estimated price
$200-202

Traveling From San Jose to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

The journey from San Jose to Santa Maria offers a striking contrast between the bustling tech city and the relaxed, coastal charm of Santa Barbara County.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Santa Maria boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to different interests and experiences.

Downtown Santa Maria
• Vibrant shopping and dining options available.
• Hosts local events and cultural festivals regularly.
Orcutt
• Known for its charming rural atmosphere.
• Features stunning vineyards and wineries nearby.
Santa Maria Valley
• Scenic landscapes make it popular for outdoor activities.
• Rich agricultural heritage showcases local farms and markets.

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

Getting the timing right can enhance your experience at Santa Maria’s attractions.

Santa Maria Valley Wineries
Visit in late morning on weekdays for quieter tastings and fewer crowds.
Historic Santa Maria Inn
Explore in the off-peak winter months for a more peaceful stay.
Santa Maria Town Center
Visit during weekdays or early mornings to enjoy a less crowded shopping experience.

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

Santa Maria enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it inviting for outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant, ideal for exploring the region without scorching summer heat or winter chills.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Try the Santa Maria-style barbecue at The Hitching Post II, where the flavors of oak wood and local meats create a smoky, savory experience that stands apart from the diverse culinary offerings in San Jose. The laid-back atmosphere, paired with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, invites you to savor each bite while enjoying the region's wine country charm.

San Jose - Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Jose and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

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

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$20-75

Bus from San Luis Obispo to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$756-758

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

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$756-758
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from San Jose Downtown to Santa Maria

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$20-75
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
4h 58m
Estimated price
$203-110
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$754-755
Plane
Website
http://united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$180-200

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

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$201-202

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

Traveling between San Jose 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 Jose to Santa Maria spanning 218 miles, offering stunning vistas and diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options ranging from $35 to $60 for the journey by car, making it an affordable and convenient choice for exploring Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County. 🏖️ Arrive in Santa Maria after approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes of driving, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this charming California destination.
Average price
$35 - $60
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Jose to Santa Maria, spanning a distance of 190 miles and lasting approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. The route takes you through the picturesque landscapes of California.
🛫 Flying from San Jose to Santa Maria by plane is a convenient option, with a flight duration of approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes. ✈️ The quickest route is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, which only takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes. 💸 When booking a flight between Santa Maria and San Jose, travelers can expect ticket prices to range from $187 to $452, offering a variety of options to suit different budgets.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Enjoy a scenic journey from San Jose to Santa Maria by bus. The direct service operated by Amtrak takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. 🚍 Departing from San Jose Diridon Station, buses run every four hours and arrive at Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop in Santa Barbara County. Sit back, relax, and take in the views along the 190-mile route.
Departure Point
San Jose Diridon Station
Arrival Point
Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Jose and Santa Maria is 185 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 217.7 miles. The typical travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Traveling by train and bus takes approximately 6 hours and 38 minutes, while flying between the two cities takes around 5 hours and 6 minutes. If driving by car, the typical travel time is 3 hours and 42 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Jose to Santa Maria is the Amtrak Thruway train service. With prices ranging from $20 to $75, it takes approximately 5 hours to reach Santa Maria. If time is of the essence, driving is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 42 minutes and costing between $35 and $60. Both options provide convenient and reliable transportation for travelers.
To get from San Jose to Santa Maria without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 218 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 42 minutes to drive there. The cost to travel by car can vary between $35 and $60, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from San Jose to Santa Maria without a car, the best option is to take the Amtrak Thruway. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and the ticket prices range from $20 to $75. The Amtrak Thruway service provides convenient transportation between the two cities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Jose and Santa Maria. The bus service operated by Amtrak offers a direct route, departing from San Jose Diridon Station and arriving at Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop. The journey takes approximately 5 hours, with buses departing four times a day and operating every day. This provides a convenient and straightforward option for travel between the two cities.
The flight duration between San Jose and Santa Maria is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can range from $167 to $452, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and class of travel. Once you arrive at San Luis Obispo County Airport, which is the nearest major airport to Santa Maria, you can reach Santa Maria by taking a taxi or ride-sharing service, or by renting a car from the airport. The distance between the airport and Santa Maria is around 15 miles, and it typically takes about 20-25 minutes to reach Santa Maria by road.
There are many options for accommodation near Santa Maria with over 64 hotels available. Prices start at just $59 per night, providing a range of choices to suit different budgets. Some popular choices include Hilton Garden Inn Santa Maria & Suites Santa Maria, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Maria. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and convenient amenities for travelers visiting the area.

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