1map logoGo to main page

Santa Cruz, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $9: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo: 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.

$9 by trainBest price
262 kmDistance
2h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo 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
5h  52m
Estimated price
$16-66
Recommended
Company
Coast Starlight
Train
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$9-101
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 262 km
Duration: 2h 50m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  13m
Estimated price
$10-117
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  54m
Estimated price
$10-117
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  57m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
Self
Drive
Average Duration
2h  50m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$187-458
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo

Traveling from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo offers a dynamic shift from the coastal vibrancy of Santa Cruz to the charming, laid-back ambiance of San Luis Obispo, where rolling hills and wine country await.

Best Neighborhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo boasts diverse neighborhoods, each showcasing its own charm and attractions.

Downtown San Luis Obispo
• Vibrant shops and eateries line the historic streets.
• Home to the bustling Thursday Farmers' Market.
Edna Valley
• Renowned for award-winning wineries and stunning vistas.
• Ideal for outdoor activities and scenic hikes.
SLO’s Historic District
• Features Victorian-era architecture and picturesque parks.
• Close proximity to the iconic Mission San Luis Obispo.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your San Luis Obispo experience significantly.

San Luis Obispo Mission
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for serene exploration.
Bubblegum Alley
Weekdays are best to avoid crowds and snap great photos.
Montaña de Oro State Park
Visit during weekdays for quieter trails and stunning sunset views.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and sunny, dry summers, making spring and fall ideal for outdoor activities. The weather plays a significant role in your travel plans, as pleasant temperatures enhance visits to parks, vineyards, and local events.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

Try the tri-tip sandwich at Firestone Grill, where the smoky, grilled flavor brings a hearty twist that contrasts with the fresh seafood focus often found in Santa Cruz. The vibrant atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients deliver a dining experience that reflects the culinary identity of the Central Coast.

Santa Cruz - San Luis Obispo operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Front & Soquel Ave to Watsonville Transit Center

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$94-92

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$94-92

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$94-92
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$95-1625
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Salinas to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
3h 18m
Estimated price
$162-90

Train from San Jose to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$165-161
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon to Millbrae

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$92-10
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$163-164

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo 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 Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo, covering a distance of 163 miles in about 2 hours and 50 minutes. Enjoy the beautiful coastal views and charming towns along the way. 💰 Prices for the journey from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo by car range from $29 to $45, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the Central Coast of California on a dime.
Average price
$29 - $45
🚂 Traveling from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo by train takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes, offering a scenic journey through the beautiful California landscape. 🎫 The prices for train tickets between Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo can range from $9 to $101, providing budget-friendly options for travelers exploring this route. 🛤️ Route 1 covers a distance of 196 miles and involves a transfer with two steps: taking a bus towards 17 - Highway 17 Express to San Jose, followed by a bus towards Santa Barbara with Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service for a total travel time of about 6 hours and 50 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo is smooth and convenient with a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. The flight time is only 1 hour and 13 minutes, making it a quick journey for travelers. United Airlines provides flights for this route, ensuring a reliable and comfortable travel experience.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 The journey from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 52 minutes with transfers required along the way. 💵 Prices for the bus ticket between these two cities can range from $16 to $66, offering travelers multiple route options to choose from based on their preferences and convenience.
Departure Point
Front & Soquel Ave station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to get from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo is to drive. The cost of gas for the journey is estimated to be between $29 and $45, depending on the vehicle and fuel efficiency. The driving distance is approximately 140 miles and the journey takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo is to drive. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost for fuel and tolls ranges from $29 to $45, making it an efficient and time-saving option. Additionally, driving allows you the flexibility to make stops along the way and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
The distance from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo is approximately 140 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is about 163 miles. This journey typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The most convenient way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 47 minutes and the cost ranges from $16 to $70. You can check with local bus companies such as Greyhound or Amtrak for schedules and ticket prices. Another option is to consider ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft, which may offer a more flexible and potentially cheaper alternative.
The travel time from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo is approximately 5 hours and 47 minutes, including transfers. The duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Driving is typically the fastest option, taking around 2 hours and 50 minutes. Public transportation, such as buses or trains, could take longer due to scheduled stops and routes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near San Luis Obispo. You can choose from over 213 hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Prices start at $45 per night, depending on the location and amenities. Some popular areas to stay in San Luis Obispo include downtown, near the Cal Poly campus, or by the beach in Pismo Beach. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo. The driving distance is approximately 163 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete the journey. This is a popular option for travelers as it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and enjoy the scenic Central California coastline along the way.
Yes, there is a bus route available from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo. However, there is no direct bus between the two cities. The bus services operate with transfers at Watsonville Transit Center / Lane 2 and Salinas Train Station. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 47 minutes. Please note that bus schedules may vary, so it is advisable to check the latest route and timing information before planning your trip.
You can catch the Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo bus from the Soquel Ave & Front station in Santa Cruz. This station is operated by Santa Cruz Metro. Make sure to check the bus schedule beforehand as departure times may vary. It is recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a seat on the bus.
The Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo bus operated by Flixbus USA arrives at the San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station, located at 1940 Santa Barbara Avenue, San Luis Obispo 93401. This station is conveniently located in downtown San Luis Obispo, making it easily accessible for travelers. From there, you can explore the city and its surrounding attractions.
American Airlines and United Airlines offer flights from Monterey Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. These airlines provide several daily flights between Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo making it convenient for travelers to choose a suitable departure time. It is recommended to check the airlines' websites or use online flight aggregators to compare prices and find the best deals for flights between these two cities.
The fastest way to get from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo by plane is to fly from Monterey Airport with a stopover. There is no direct flight available. The quickest flight takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Both American Airlines and United Airlines offer flights from Monterey Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport.
The flight from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo requires a layover as there are no direct flights. The quickest flight option takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes with one stopover. However, the total travel time can vary depending on the duration of the layover. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight schedules.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo can range from $16 to $66. This price variation is due to factors such as the type of bus service, time of travel, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to book in advance and compare different bus companies to find the best deals. Additionally, keep in mind that prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest fares before planning your trip.
The cost to drive from Santa Cruz to San Luis Obispo can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and toll fees. On average, it can cost between $29 to $45 for a one-way trip. It is important to consider other expenses such as parking fees and any additional costs for rental cars if applicable. It is always a good idea to calculate the estimated cost based on current fuel prices and mileage before starting your journey.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to Los Gatos