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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to Joshua Tree, CA, USA from $55: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Luis Obispo, United States of America
to
Joshua Tree, United States of America

How to Get from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree: 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.

$55 - DriveBest price
529 kmDistance
5h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree 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
Average Duration
8h  7m
Estimated price
$130-237
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
9h  49m
Estimated price
$113-317
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 529 km
Duration: 5h 40m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  41m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Car
Drive
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$55-90
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  4m
Estimated price
$260-662
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Traveling From San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree

The journey from San Luis Obispo's coastal charm to Joshua Tree's vast desert landscapes offers a striking contrast between lush hillsides and sprawling arid scenery.

Best Neighbourhoods in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.

Joshua Tree Village
• Offers local shops and cafes.
• Home to the famous Joshua Tree Coffee Company.
Pioneertown
• Historic Old West-style buildings.
• Great live music and dining options.
Friendly Hills
• Known for scenic desert views.
• Offers tranquil residential vibe.

Best Times To Visit Joshua Tree's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can enhance your Joshua Tree experience.

Joshua Tree National Park
Early mornings and late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Skull Rock
Visit during weekdays for a quieter, more intimate experience.
Cholla Cactus Garden
Sunrise offers stunning light and a tranquil atmosphere.

Joshua Tree Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Joshua Tree experiences a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal times to visit. Your travel experience can vary significantly with the weather, as extreme temperatures can impact outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Joshua Tree

Check out Crossroads Cafe for a taste of their flavorful breakfast burrito, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a touch of Southwestern flair. The laid-back, eclectic atmosphere here stands in stark contrast to San Luis Obispo's farm-to-table scene, offering a truly unique dining experience.

San Luis Obispo - Joshua Tree operators

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

Bus
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
$3171-2376

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Palm Springs North

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$3172-1137
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Desert Hot Springs

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$3173-1137
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles

Average Duration
5h 34m
Estimated price
$2370-1301

Train from Los Angeles to Palm Springs Amtrak

Average Duration
2h 36m
Estimated price
$1132-1133
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Indio/Palm Springs (PSP)

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$137-1305
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Indio/Palm Springs (PSP)

Average Duration
5h 19m
Estimated price
$1308-550
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Indio/Palm Springs (PSP)

Average Duration
6h 21m
Estimated price
$1306-1309

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Luis Obispo and Joshua Tree is approximately 261 miles by road. By train, it takes around 9 hours and 49 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you prefer to fly, the typical travel time is 5 hours and 46 minutes. Driving by car is the quickest option, taking approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes. However, if you decide to take the bus, the journey can take up to 8 hours and 12 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree is to drive. It takes approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes to cover the road distance of 329 miles, and the cost ranges from $55 to $90. Other options such as taking a train or bus may be more time-consuming, with travel times of 9 hours and 49 minutes and 8 hours and 12 minutes, respectively. Flying is faster, with a travel time of 5 hours and 46 minutes, but it is likely to be more expensive compared to driving.
When traveling from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree, the prices for a train ticket range from $113 to $317. However, for a bus ticket from Joshua Tree to San Luis Obispo, the prices can vary from $130 to $237. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may be influenced by factors such as the time of year and availability. It's recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree without using public transportation, the most common option would be to drive. The road distance is approximately 329 miles and it takes about 5 hours and 40 minutes to drive from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree. The cost of driving varies, but typically ranges from $55 to $90. It is recommended to have a valid driver's license, a reliable vehicle, and to plan for rest stops along the way to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
To travel from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree without a car, the best option is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 12 minutes and costs between $130 and $240. Another option is to take the train, which takes around 9 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $110 and $320. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, which is the fastest option but also the most expensive, with a travel time of 5 hours and 46 minutes and costs between $490 and $900.
The flight between San Luis Obispo and Joshua Tree typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight between the two locations, so travelers will need to make a layover. The cost of a flight from San Luis Obispo to Joshua Tree can range from $490 to $862 depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats.
There are multiple accommodation options available near Joshua Tree. There are over 491 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $54 per night. These options range from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, providing travelers with a variety of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

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