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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $14: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Luis Obispo to San Diego: 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
524 kmDistance
3h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo to San Diego 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
Plane
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$112-486
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  52m
Estimated price
$14-140
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 524 km
Duration: 3h 1m

See more options

Company
FlixBus, Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
8h  40m
Estimated price
$36-107
Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$36-107
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h  32m
Estimated price
$55-90
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Traveling From San Luis Obispo to San Diego

Traveling from San Luis Obispo to San Diego offers a transition from charming, small-town vibes to a vibrant coastal metropolis, showcasing scenic landscapes and diverse urban experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Renowned for its lively nightlife and dining options.
• Historic architecture complements modern entertainment venues.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and sandy beaches for relaxation.
• Upscale shopping and fine dining experiences await you.
Hillcrest
• Vibrant LGBTQ+ community with welcoming atmosphere.
• Popular farmer's market features local produce every Sunday.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your San Diego experience significantly.

Balboa Park
Explore during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and peaceful strolls.
San Diego Zoo
Arrive right at opening hours to enjoy animals at their most active.
La Jolla Cove
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for stunning sunset views.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it an attractive destination year-round, with temperatures averaging in the mid-70s. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as you'll experience pleasant weather while avoiding the tourist rush, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For an unforgettable dining experience, try the fish tacos at Las Cuatro Milpas, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet bold flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. This contrast to the farm-to-table scene in San Luis Obispo brings a taste of authentic Southern California beach culture right to your plate.

San Luis Obispo - San Diego operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$110-490
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Luis Obispo to San Diego

Average Duration
8h 52m
Estimated price
$14-140
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
$36-107

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$36-107
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$36-107
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$0-0

Other from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0
Drive

Drive from San Luis Obispo to San Diego

Average Duration
5h 32m
Estimated price
$55-90

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

Traveling between San Luis Obispo and San Diego 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 San Diego, covering a distance of 326 miles. Enjoy roughly 5 and a half hours of driving through diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💰 The cost of journeying from San Luis Obispo to San Diego by car can range between $55 to $90, depending on factors like gas prices and tolls. Budget-conscious travelers can choose to make stops for affordable dining and sightseeing options.
Average price
$55 - $90
🚆 Experience a scenic journey from San Luis Obispo to San Diego by train. With services operating twice daily, you can relax and enjoy the approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes ride. ⏰ Sit back, unwind, and let the train take you from San Luis Obispo station to San Diego station in just under 9 hours. With ticket prices varying from $14 to $140, this train trip offers a hassle-free way to explore the beauty of California's coastline.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: On your train ride from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, Amtrak provides a variety of catering services. You can enjoy a café car that offers snacks, beverages, and light meals. Be sure to check their menu for locally sourced options. For those who prefer a sit-down experience, consider dining in the dedicated dining car if available, where you may enjoy meals sourced from local ingredients.
• Seating Options: The train operators on this route, primarily Amtrak, offer different seating classes. You can choose from Coach (Economy), Business, or First Class. Coach provides comfortable seating with basic amenities, while Business Class offers more spacious seats and complimentary snacks and beverages. First Class seats are even more spacious, with additional perks such as a gourmet meal service. Make sure to book in advance, especially for Business or First Class to secure your spot.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arrival at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, familiarize yourself with the lay of the land. There are restroom facilities available, but showers are not provided. If you need to store luggage for a few hours, the station does offer a luggage storage service for a small fee. Explore nearby attractions as the station is conveniently located near the Gaslamp Quarter and waterfront.
🛫 Travel from San Luis Obispo to San Diego by plane is convenient and efficient. The quickest direct flight takes just 1 hour and 11 minutes with Alaska Airlines, Inc. 🌴 Enjoy a relatively short flight duration of 3 hours and 1 minute from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. Indulge in scenic views as you soar from Central to Southern California. 💸 Flight prices between San Diego and San Luis Obispo range from $112 to $486. Plan ahead and secure a great deal for your trip to this vibrant coastal city.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 There is no direct bus from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. However, you can take a bus service operated by Flixbus USA and Greyhound Mexico with transfers in Los Angeles Union Station, making the journey approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes. 🌊 Route options vary in duration and number of transfers. For example, Route 1 takes about 10 hours and 50 minutes, covering a distance of 310 miles with 4 transfers including stops in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, Los Angeles International Airport, Downtown Long Beach, and finally arriving in San Diego. 🌞 Other routes, such as Route 5, may take around 14 hours and 10 minutes, involving stops in Santa Barbara, Los Angeles International Airport, and a final journey to the San Ysidro Arrival at the USA-Mexico Border before arriving in San Diego. It's important to plan your trip ahead and choose the route that best fits your schedule and preferences.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is by train. Amtrak offers affordable ticket options, with prices ranging from $14 to $140 depending on the class and availability. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes. It's a scenic route that allows you to relax and enjoy the beautiful California landscapes along the way.
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is by flying. The flight duration is approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes. Ticket prices for a one-way flight range from $110 to $350, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
The distance from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is approximately 269 miles. The road distance is about 325.7 miles. This will vary depending on the specific route you take. By car, the journey usually takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Other modes of transportation, such as trains or buses, may have slightly different distances or durations.
The best way to travel from San Luis Obispo to San Diego without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes and the ticket prices range from $30 to $110, depending on the chosen bus company and seating class. There are several bus options available, with multiple departures daily. It is recommended to check the schedules and book your ticket in advance to secure your seat.
The duration of travel from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes, including transfers. The mode of transportation will affect the total travel time. The fastest way is by flight, which can take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. By train, it takes around 8 hours and 52 minutes, while driving can take around 5 hours depending on traffic conditions.
The cheapest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is by train, which costs approximately $14 to $140 and takes around 8 hours and 52 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which would cost around $30 to $110 and takes about 8 hours and 40 minutes. However, if time is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes and costing around $110 to $350.
There are numerous accommodation options available in San Diego, with over 1163 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $53 per night. From budget hotels to luxury resorts, there are options to suit every traveler's preferences and budget. Popular areas to stay in San Diego include Downtown, Gaslamp Quarter, Mission Valley, and La Jolla, each offering a unique experience and convenient access to attractions and amenities.
Yes, you can drive from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. The driving distance is approximately 326 miles, and it takes about 5 hours and 32 minutes to complete the journey. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose to take. It is advisable to plan ahead and consider factors such as rest stops and fuel stops along the way.
Yes, there is no direct bus between San Luis Obispo and San Diego. However, there are bus services available that depart from San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum and arrive at San Diego via Los Angeles Union Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability beforehand, as they may vary.
You can catch the bus from San Luis Obispo to San Diego at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station. Flixbus USA operates the bus services on this route. The station is conveniently located and easily accessible for travelers. Make sure to check the bus schedules and plan your trip accordingly.
The bus from San Luis Obispo to San Diego arrives at the San Diego station. The bus service is operated by Greyhound Mexico and this is the designated stop for passengers traveling on this route. The San Diego station is conveniently located and provides easy access to various transportation options and nearby attractions.
Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines are the two airlines that offer flights between San Luis Obispo and San Diego. Both airlines operate flights from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Diego Airport. It is recommended to check with each airline for their specific flight schedules and prices.
The fastest way to get from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is by taking a flight. The quickest flight time is 1 hour and 18 minutes on a direct flight from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Diego Airport. Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines offer flights on this route. However, the total travel time, including getting to and from the airport, checking-in, and going through security, is approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes. Prices for flights between San Diego and San Luis Obispo range from $112 to $346.
The flight from San Luis Obispo to San Diego typically takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes. This duration is for direct flights, so it may vary if there are layovers or connecting flights involved. It is advisable to check with airlines for specific flight schedules and durations. Additionally, factors such as weather conditions or air traffic may also affect the total travel time.
Trains from San Luis Obispo to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This is the main train station in San Diego and is conveniently located in downtown San Diego. From here, travelers can easily access various attractions and amenities in the city. It is recommended to check the train schedule and plan your arrival accordingly at the San Diego station.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Luis Obispo and San Diego. The train departs twice daily and operates every day. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 52 minutes. Be sure to check the schedule and book your ticket in advance for a smooth trip.
To catch the train from San Luis Obispo to San Diego you will need to go to the San Luis Obispo station. This is where the train services, operated by Amtrak, depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule and arrive at the station on time to ensure a smooth journey.
The cost of a flight from San Luis Obispo to San Diego can range from $112 to $346. The price varies depending on factors like the airline, time of booking, and availability. It's recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost of a train ticket from San Luis Obispo to San Diego can range from $14 to $140, depending on factors such as the type of ticket, time of travel, and availability. It is recommended to check with the train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, prices may also fluctuate based on any discounts or promotions that may be available.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Luis Obispo to San Diego ranges from $34 to $107. The price may vary depending on the bus company, the time of travel, and the ticket type. It is recommended to check with different bus providers and compare prices before booking your ticket. Additionally, it is advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure the best available fare.
The cost to drive from San Luis Obispo to San Diego can vary depending on the type of vehicle and fuel prices. On average, it may cost between $55 to $90 one-way for the approximately 355-mile journey. However, factors such as tolls, parking fees, and maintenance costs should also be considered when calculating the total expenses of the trip. It is recommended to check the current fuel prices and plan accordingly to get a more accurate estimate.

Trips from San Luis Obispo

Trips to San Diego