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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to Oakland, CA, USA from $10: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Luis Obispo to Oakland: 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.

$10 by trainBest price
362 kmDistance
3h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo to Oakland 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
BART
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$10-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 362 km
Duration: 3h 25m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$22-80
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$180-444

Traveling From San Luis Obispo to Oakland

Traveling from San Luis Obispo to Oakland offers a striking contrast between the laid-back vibe of SLO's charming coastal scenery and the bustling urban energy of Oakland's diverse cultural scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oakland

Oakland boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Jack London Square
• Waterfront dining and entertainment options abound.
• Rich maritime history with scenic views.
Temescal
• Trendy shops and diverse food scene.
• Art murals create a colorful atmosphere.
Uptown
• Home to lively nightlife and music venues.
• Cultural hub featuring galleries and theaters.

Best Times To Visit Oakland's Attractions

Planning your visit around key times can elevate your Oakland experience.

Oakland Museum of California
Visit during weekday afternoons for fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Lake Merritt
Early mornings offer tranquil views and fewer visitors, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Redwood Regional Park
Fall brings stunning foliage; visit on weekdays to enjoy the serenity.

Oakland Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oakland enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it inviting throughout the year. Spring and early fall are particularly ideal for outdoor activities, while summer can bring warmer temperatures that enhance the vibrant atmosphere of festivals and events.

Dining Recommendation in Oakland

Head over to Brown Sugar Kitchen for their famous buttermilk fried chicken and waffles, a dish that reflects Oakland’s vibrant, soul food heritage. This culinary experience contrasts with San Luis Obispo’s emphasis on fresh farm-to-table fare, showcasing the rich flavors and diverse influences that define Oakland's food scene.

San Luis Obispo - Oakland operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Luis Obispo and Oakland, 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 Luis Obispo Amtrak Station to Oakland Jack London Square Station

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$22-80

Bus from San Luis Obispo to San Jose

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to Oakland

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
$22-80
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Luis Obispo to Oakland

Average Duration
6h 1m
Estimated price
$10-120
Plane
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$180-450
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$102-103
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Subway from Berryessa / North San Jose to 12th Street / Oakland City Center

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$104-105

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

Traveling between San Luis Obispo and Oakland 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 road trip from San Luis Obispo to Oakland, covering a distance of 225 miles. Enjoy a drive that lasts around 3 hours and 49 minutes, passing through charming towns and picturesque landscapes along the route. 💸 Cost-effective travel options abound, with car travel expenses ranging from $40 to $60 for the journey to Oakland from San Luis Obispo. Experience the freedom of the open road while keeping your budget in check on this adventure through California.
Average price
$40 - $60
🌉 During the approximately 6-hour journey, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views passing by outside your window. The train ride offers a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. 💰 Ticket prices for the San Luis Obispo to Oakland train vary from $10 to $120, providing options for different budgets. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, taking the train is a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo station
Arrival Point
Oakland station
🛫 Flying from San Luis Obispo to Oakland involves a quick direct flight from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Francisco Airport, lasting about 1 hour and 17 minutes with United Airlines. 🌉 From San Francisco Airport, travelers can then make their way to Oakland, which adds an additional 3 hours and 25 minutes to the journey by plane. 💸 The cost of a flight between Oakland and San Luis Obispo can range from $180 to $444, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The trip from San Luis Obispo to Oakland by bus is a convenient option with services departing five times a day and taking approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. 🚌 Ticket prices for the bus ride between Oakland and San Luis Obispo range from $22 to $80, making it an affordable transportation choice for travelers.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Oakland Jack London Square Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Luis Obispo and Oakland is approximately 197 miles by air, 225.1 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 6 hours and 1 minute to reach Oakland from San Luis Obispo by train, 5 hours and 28 minutes by taking a bus and then using BART, and about 3 hours and 10 minutes by plane. By car, it takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes to travel from Oakland to San Luis Obispo.
The most cost-effective way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Oakland is by train, with prices ranging from $10 to $120. Although it takes longer, approximately 6 hours and 1 minute, it is the cheaper option for budget-conscious travelers. However, if time is more important, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 10 minutes, but with prices ranging from $160 to $450. It ultimately depends on your priorities and budget for selecting the most suitable mode of transportation.
The prices for a train journey between San Luis Obispo and Oakland can range from $10 to $120, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. It is advisable to book in advance to secure lower fares. Other modes of transportation may have different price ranges, such as bus fares ranging from approximately $25 to $45, and plane tickets costing between $100 and $300, depending on the airline and the time of travel.
To get from San Luis Obispo to Oakland without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is 225 miles, and it typically takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes. However, keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving from San Luis Obispo to Oakland by car can range from $40 to $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from San Luis Obispo to Oakland without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then use BART. This journey takes about 5 hours and 28 minutes and is generally affordable. Another option is to fly, which is faster but more expensive, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can consider taking an Amtrak Thruway or a train, which offers scenic routes but takes longer.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Luis Obispo and Oakland. You can take a train from San Luis Obispo to Oakland, which operates twice daily and takes approximately 6 hours and 1 minute. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from San Luis Obispo to Oakland, which departs four times a day and takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. Both the train and bus services are operated by Amtrak.
The flight between San Luis Obispo and Oakland typically takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes. The prices for a flight between the two cities can vary from $160 to $444. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most up-to-date fare information and to book in advance for the best deals.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Oakland with over 826 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $74 per night, offering a range of choices to fit different budgets and preferences. Some popular areas to consider staying in Oakland include downtown, Jack London Square, and near Oakland International Airport. It is recommended to research and compare different hotels based on their location, amenities, and reviews to find the best option for your stay.

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