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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to Irvine, CA, USA from $14: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Luis Obispo to Irvine: 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.

$14 by trainBest price
391 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo to Irvine 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
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  59m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
7h  48m
Estimated price
$14-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 391 km
Duration: 4h 8m

See more options

Company
FlixBus 2005
Bus
Average Duration
7h  23m
Estimated price
$25-92
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  59m
Estimated price
$110-376
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  17m
Estimated price
$142-140
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$144-498
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Traveling From San Luis Obispo to Irvine

The journey from San Luis Obispo to Irvine offers a refreshing contrast between the laid-back charm of coastal California and the bustling urban vibe of Orange County.

Best Neighbourhoods in Irvine

Irvine boasts diverse neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Woodbridge
• Scenic lakes and walking trails
• Family-friendly parks and amenities
Great Park
• Vibrant community events year-round
• Expansive parks and recreational facilities
University Town Center
• Close to UC Irvine campuses
• Trendy shops and dining options

Best Times To Visit Irvine's Attractions

Timing your visits to Irvine's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Irvine Spectrum Center
Visit during weekdays before noon for fewer crowds and easier shopping.
Great Park
Early mornings on weekends offer peaceful walks and stunning sunrises.
Pretend City Children's Museum
Mid-afternoon visits on weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere for kids.

Irvine Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Irvine enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a delightful destination year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times to visit, as the weather allows for outdoor activities without the intense heat or humidity.

Dining Recommendation in Irvine

For a taste of Irvine’s vibrant culinary scene, try the Korean BBQ at 8FIVE2, where you can grill your own meats at the table, a sharp contrast to the more farm-to-table dining found in San Luis Obispo. The lively atmosphere and bold flavors of the marinated meats and unique side dishes highlight Irvine's diverse culinary landscape, showcasing a fusion of local and global influences.

San Luis Obispo - Irvine operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Luis Obispo and Irvine, 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 Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$25-92

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Anaheim

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$25-92
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Luis Obispo to Santa Ana

Average Duration
6h 48m
Estimated price
$145-120

Train from L. A. Union Station to Tustin

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-25
Website
metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to Tustin

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-25
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Santa Ana (SNA)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$110-146
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Santa Ana (SNA)

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$1410-1203
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Santa Ana (SNA)

Average Duration
5h 34m
Estimated price
$149-1204
Website
united.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Santa Ana (SNA)

Average Duration
4h 17m
Estimated price
$1410-148

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

Traveling between San Luis Obispo and Irvine 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 journey from San Luis Obispo to Irvine, covering a distance of 243 miles in approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes. The route offers a mix of coastal views and inland landscapes, making the drive enjoyable and diverse. 💸 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the flexible cost of traveling by car from San Luis Obispo to Irvine, with prices typically ranging between $40 to $65. This option allows for economic flexibility while still experiencing the convenience and freedom of a road trip.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚆 The trip from San Luis Obispo to Irvine by train involves a journey with transfers, taking approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes. 🚆 The prices for a train ticket from San Luis Obispo to Irvine range from $14 to $120, offering a convenient and scenic travel option for those exploring California.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo station
Arrival Point
Santa Ana station
🛫 Flying from San Luis Obispo to Irvine will require a layover as there are no direct flights available. The quickest option with one stopover takes around 4 hours and 2 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight between San Luis Obispo and Irvine can range from $144 to $498, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to travel between these two cities in Southern California.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Ana Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 2m and has one stopover
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from San Luis Obispo to Irvine, travelers can take a route with transfers. The journey typically takes around 7 hours and 23 minutes. 🛤️ Passengers can start their bus trip at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum and make transfers at Los Angeles Union Station en route to Irvine. The final stop is at the Artic - Dock 4 in Irvine. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Irvine and San Luis Obispo range from $25 to $92. Travelers can choose between different bus operators such as Flixbus USA and Greyhound Mexico for their journey.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station
Arrival Point
Anaheim station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Luis Obispo and Irvine is 197 miles. By train, it takes approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes to travel between the two cities. Taking a combination of bus and train can take around 6 hours and 59 minutes. The fastest option is by plane, which takes about 5 hours and 10 minutes. Driving by car can take approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 7 hours and 23 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Irvine is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $13 to $120. Although it takes longer, approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes, it offers a more budget-friendly option. On the other hand, if time is of the essence, driving is the quickest option. The journey takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes and costs approximately $40 to $65, depending on factors such as fuel consumption.
When traveling from San Luis Obispo to Irvine, the prices of a train ticket range from $14 to $120. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Irvine to San Luis Obispo vary from $25 to $91. These prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the class chosen, and any discounts or promotions available. It's recommended to check with the respective transportation companies for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from San Luis Obispo to Irvine without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 243 miles and it takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete the journey by car. The driving route offers flexibility and allows for scenic stops along the way. The cost of this option can range from $40 to $65, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from San Luis Obispo to Irvine without a car, you have a few options. The quickest way is to take a combination of bus and train, which takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes. This option may be more affordable than flying, with costs ranging between $24 and $95. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus, which takes around 7 hours and 23 minutes and costs between $24 and $95. If you prefer a longer journey, you can take the train, which takes approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $13 and $120.
There is no direct link between San Luis Obispo and Irvine whether by train or by bus. If traveling by train, one would have to take a train from San Luis Obispo to Santa Ana station and then transfer to Tustin station, with a total journey time of approximately 7 hours and 48 minutes. If traveling by bus, one would have to take a bus from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles Union Station, transfer to Artic - Dock 4, and then take another bus to Main-Harvard, with a total journey time of approximately 7 hours and 23 minutes.
The flight between San Luis Obispo and Irvine typically takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes, with one stopover. The prices for flights between the two cities can range from $194 to $668. However, it's important to note that there is no direct flight available, so a layover or stopover is required.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Irvine. With 742+ hotels available, you can find a range of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $69, so you can find something affordable or opt for a higher-end hotel if you prefer. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort, a budget-friendly motel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, there are numerous places to stay in Irvine.

Trips from San Luis Obispo

Trips to Irvine