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Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA to Tijuana from $18: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), United States of America
to
Tijuana, Mexico

How to Get from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Tijuana: 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.

$18 by trainBest price
420 kmDistance
5h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Tijuana 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
Train
Average Duration
8h  31m
Estimated price
$23-151
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
10h  51m
Estimated price
$18-158
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 420 km
Duration: 5h 21m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Train
Average Duration
12h  3m
Estimated price
$21-175
Company
FlixBus, Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
9h  25m
Estimated price
$35-106
Company
Amtrak, Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
10h  49m
Estimated price
$35-106
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h  21m
Estimated price
$55-230
Company
N/A
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  54m
Estimated price
$184-233
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Tram
Average Duration
6h  4m
Estimated price
$231-232
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
8h  27m
Estimated price
$234-235
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Traveling From Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Tijuana

Your journey from Santa Maria, with its serene coastal charm and wine country allure, to the vibrant streets of Tijuana offers a striking contrast between laid-back Californian vibes and the energetic pulse of a bustling Mexican city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tijuana

Tijuana offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

Zona Rio
• Home to upscale dining and shopping options.
• Features vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.
Avenida Revolución
• Renowned for its bustling markets and street vendors.
• A hub for authentic local arts and crafts.
Playas de Tijuana
• Beautiful beaches and oceanfront dining experiences.
• Offers a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere for visitors.

Best Times To Visit Tijuana's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Tijuana.

Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT)
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for a quieter, immersive experience.
Avenida Revolución
Late afternoons on weekdays are ideal to enjoy bustling shops with fewer crowds.
Playas de Tijuana
Sunrise visits offer stunning views and a peaceful beach atmosphere.

Tijuana Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tijuana enjoys a Mediterranean climate, featuring mild winters and warm summers, making it a delightful destination year-round. Visiting during the spring and fall months allows you to experience pleasant temperatures and vibrant local events, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Tijuana

For a taste of authentic Tijuana, you can’t miss the street tacos from Taquería El Franc, where bold flavors and fresh local ingredients create a culinary experience distinctly different from Santa Maria's wine country fare. The lively atmosphere, complete with bustling street vendors and local music, adds an exciting dynamic to your meal that highlights Tijuana's vibrant culture.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) - Tijuana operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Tijuana, 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 Santa Maria to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$181-1584

Bus from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$185-189
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Tijuana

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$181-55

Bus from Long Beach Bus Station to Tijuana

Average Duration
4h 49m
Estimated price
$238-15150
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Grover Beach Amtrak to San Diego

Average Duration
8h 32m
Estimated price
$238-2380

Train from Santa Barbara to San Diego

Average Duration
6h 14m
Estimated price
$185-237
Plane
Website
alaskaair.com

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

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$239-1510
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Fresno to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$239-1510
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$180-1514
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$1513-230
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 619-233-3004
Website
sdmts.com

Other from Old Town Station to San Ysidro Station

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$1581-1582
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
centralcoastshuttle.com

Other from Santa Maria Airport to Los Angeles Airport

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$230-180

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Tijuana: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Tijuana 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 picturesque road trip spanning 314 miles from Santa Maria to the vibrant city of Tijuana. Feel the excitement of crossing the border as you journey through diverse landscapes and scenic highways. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel with car prices starting at $55 and going up to $85 for the drive to Tijuana from Santa Maria, providing an affordable way to explore two distinct cultures in one adventurous trip. 🌮 Immerse yourself in the colorful sights and flavors of Tijuana after a 5-hour and 21-minute drive, where you can savor authentic Mexican cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this bustling border city.
Average price
$55 - $85
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County to the vibrant city of Tijuana. The ride takes approximately 10 hours and 51 minutes, allowing you to witness beautiful landscapes along the way. 🎟️ Prices for train tickets between Santa Maria and Tijuana range from $18 to $158, offering travelers flexibility based on their budget and preferences. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or seeking more comfort, there are various fare options to choose from.
🛫 Experience a convenient and quick journey from Santa Maria to Tijuana by catching a direct flight from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Diego Airport. This seamless flight with Alaska Airlines, Inc. will only take approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 If you're planning a bus trip from Santa Maria to Tijuana, be prepared for a journey that includes transfers, lasting approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes. 🕒 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Tijuana and Santa Maria can range from $35 to $106, offering an affordable and scenic way to travel between these two cities. 🎫
Departure Point
Santa Maria station
Arrival Point
Tijuana station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Tijuana.

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The distance between Santa Maria and Tijuana is 261 miles, or approximately 313.5 miles by car. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 10 hours and 51 minutes to reach Tijuana from Santa Maria. By taking a bus and then a train via Los Angeles, the travel time is approximately 8 hours and 31 minutes. Driving from Tijuana to Santa Maria takes around 5 hours and 21 minutes by car, while the bus journey from Santa Maria to Tijuana takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Maria to Tijuana is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $18 to $160. Although it takes 10 hours and 51 minutes, it offers a more affordable alternative. The quickest way to reach Tijuana is by driving, taking around 5 hours and 21 minutes. However, it is slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from $55 to $85. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency depends on individual preferences.
The prices for a train journey between Santa Maria and Tijuana range from $18 to $158, depending on the class and type of ticket chosen. For bus travel between Tijuana and Santa Maria, ticket prices can vary from $34 to $101, depending on the bus company and the level of comfort desired. It is advisable to check with the specific train or bus company for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Santa Maria to Tijuana without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 314 miles. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 21 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. There are various routes you can take, and the cost of the trip by car ranges from $55 to $85, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Santa Maria to Tijuana without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $30 to $110. This is the most convenient and affordable option for travel between the two destinations without a car.
No, there is no direct link between Santa Maria and Tijuana. However, there are bus services available that require a transfer in Los Angeles. The journey by bus from Santa Maria to Tijuana, including transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA and Greyhound USA.
The flight duration from Santa Maria to Tijuana is not provided in the given information. However, the quickest flight from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Diego Airport, which is near Tijuana, takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes. As for the cost, it would depend on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines or online travel platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.
There are over 406 hotels available in Tijuana offering a variety of options for accommodation. Prices start at $54 per night, providing a range of choices for different budgets. Some popular areas to stay in Tijuana include the city center, Zona Rio, and Playas de Tijuana, each offering unique attractions and amenities. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or boutique accommodations, there are plenty of choices available in Tijuana to suit your needs.

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