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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to Long Beach, CA, USA from $11: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Luis Obispo, United States of America
to
Long Beach, United States of America

How to Get from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$11 by trainBest price
358 kmDistance
3h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo to Long 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$23-102
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
6h  44m
Estimated price
$11-109
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 358 km
Duration: 3h 49m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$-1--1
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$-1--1
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$174-466

Traveling From San Luis Obispo to Long Beach

Traveling from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach offers a fascinating contrast between the tranquil charm of the Central Coast and the vibrant, urban energy of Southern California.

Best Neighborhoods in Long Beach

Long Beach boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Belmont Shore
• Coastal vibe with beautiful beaches and shops.
• Great dining options along 2nd Street.
Downtown Long Beach
• Bustling nightlife with various entertainment venues.
• Close to the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Naples Island
• Scenic canals and picturesque waterfront homes.
• Quaint shops and charming cafes to explore.

Best Times To Visit Long Beach's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Long Beach's attractions.

Aquarium of the Pacific
Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience with fewer visitors.
Queen Mary
Visit during off-peak hours, like early afternoons, for shorter lines.
Long Beach Museum of Art
Try to go on Thursdays when admission prices are reduced and crowds are light.

Long Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Long Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate marked by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an appealing destination throughout the year. Spring and fall are particularly inviting, offering comfortable temperatures that enhance outdoor exploration and leisure activities.

Dining Recommendation

Head to Recreational Coffee for their signature cold brew and a fresh acai bowl, which showcase Long Beach's vibrant and dynamic culinary scene, distinct from the farm-to-table offerings in San Luis Obispo. The energetic atmosphere and diverse menu reflect the city’s coastal culture, providing a lively backdrop that enriches your dining experience.

San Luis Obispo - Long Beach operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$23-102

Bus from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$23-102
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles

Average Duration
5h 34m
Estimated price
$11-109

Train from San Luis Obispo to 1st Street Station

Average Duration
6h 44m
Estimated price
$11-109
Plane
Website
https://united.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$2300-233

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$2300-400
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Other from Aviation/Lax to Willowbrook - Rosa Parks Station - West

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$1022-1022

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

Traveling between San Luis Obispo and Long 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 scenic journey from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach, covering a distance of 222 miles along the picturesque California coastline. Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you cruise towards your destination. ⛽️ Plan your budget accordingly, as the cost of the trip can range from $40 to $60 for fuel and any tolls along the way. Make pit stops at charming towns and eateries to break up the drive and immerse yourself in the local culture. 🌴 Arrive in Long Beach after approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes of driving, ready to explore its vibrant waterfront, sandy beaches, and diverse culinary scene. Your road trip from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach promises unforgettable memories and a true taste of Southern California charm.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 Starting from San Luis Obispo station, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey towards Long Beach. While there is no direct route, passengers will transit through Union Station - Metro A-Line in Los Angeles. The overall travel time, including transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 44 minutes. 🚉 Arriving at Los Angeles station, passengers will then need to transfer to the 1st Street Station to complete the final stretch of the trip to Long Beach. The train services are operated by Amtrak, ensuring a comfortable and reliable travel experience for passengers. With efficient connections, travelers can enjoy a seamless transition between stations. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between San Luis Obispo and Long Beach can range from $11 to $109, offering passengers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Whether for leisure or business, this train journey presents a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two vibrant Californian cities.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station
🛫 Start your journey from San Luis Obispo by catching a quick 1 hour and 12-minute direct flight to Los Angeles Airport with United Airlines. 🌴 Once you land in Los Angeles, it's only a short 30-minute drive or 2-hour train ride to reach the sunny shores of Long Beach. 📅 In total, the trip from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach takes approximately 6 hours and 37 minutes by plane, offering a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant California cities.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Starting from San Luis Obispo, travelers can take a bus operated by Flixbus USA at the Railroad Museum station. The journey to Long Beach involves transfers and takes approximately 6 hours. 💰 Fares for this bus trip from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach range from $23 to $102, offering a relatively cost-effective travel option for those looking to explore the beautiful coastal cities of California.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Union Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Luis Obispo and Long Beach is 176 miles, with a road distance of 222.3 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation vary. It takes approximately 6 hours and 44 minutes by train, 3 hours and 45 minutes by flying from San Luis Obispo County Airport and then taking a tram, 5 hours and 49 minutes by plane, and 3 hours and 49 minutes by car. Taking a bus between the two cities typically takes around 6 hours.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach is by train. The train journey takes 6 hours and 44 minutes and costs between $11 and $110. If time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach and then take a tram. This option takes 3 hours and 45 minutes but is more expensive, with prices ranging from $150 to $440.
When traveling from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach, the cost of a train ticket can range from $11 to $109, depending on the type of ticket and the class of service chosen. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket for the same route can range from $23 to $102, with variations based on factors such as availability, demand, and the type of bus service selected. It is advisable to check with specific providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To get from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 222 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 49 minutes to drive. The prices to rent a car and drive from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach can vary between $40 and $60, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle.
If you want to travel from San Luis Obispo to Long Beach without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes around 6 hours and the ticket prices typically range from $22 to $110. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities.
Yes, there is a link between San Luis Obispo and Long Beach although there is no direct train or bus service. To travel by train, you would need to take a train from San Luis Obispo to Union Station in Los Angeles, and then transfer to the Metro A-Line to reach Long Beach in approximately 6 hours and 44 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles Union Station, and then transfer to another bus to reach Long Beach in about 6 hours. Both options involve transfers and take a similar amount of time.
The flight between San Luis Obispo and Long Beach typically takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but on average, it can range from $100 to $300 for a one-way ticket. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to get the best deal. Additionally, it is important to note that these prices and travel times are subject to change.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Long Beach. With over 541 hotels to choose from, you'll be sure to find something that suits your needs and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $54 per night, so there are options available for every traveler. Whether you're looking for luxury beachfront resorts or budget-friendly motels, you'll have plenty of choices for a comfortable stay in or near Long Beach.

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