Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA to Fresno, CA, USA from $30: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Fresno: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$30 - OtherBest price

275 kmDistance

3h 6m 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 Fresno 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.

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Traveling From Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Fresno

The journey from Santa Maria, with its coastal charm and laid-back atmosphere, to Fresno, known for its vibrant agricultural scene and urban energy, offers distinct experiences that highlight California's diversity.

Best Neighbourhoods in Fresno

Fresno features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and attractions.

Woodward Park

• Scenic park with walking trails and gardens.

• Family-friendly amenities and playgrounds.

Downtown Fresno

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.

• Great dining options and local breweries.

Old Fig Garden

• Charming historic homes and tree-lined streets.

• Quaint cafes and boutique shopping opportunities.

Best Times To Visit Fresno's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Fresno by timing your visits to popular sites.

Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Visit early on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and avoid large school groups.

Woodward Park

Mornings, especially on weekdays, offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

Forestiere Underground Gardens

Late afternoon tours provide a peaceful experience and stunning lighting for photos.

Fresno Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Fresno experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making spring and fall ideal for outdoor activities. Be mindful that summer heat can impact your travel plans, so plan for hydration and shade while exploring.

Dining Recommendation in Fresno

Try the carne asada fries at Dog House Grill, a lively spot where bold flavors and a casual atmosphere come together, contrasting sharply with the fresh seafood-focused dishes in Santa Maria. This dish showcases the hearty use of local ingredients and the vibrant culinary influences that define Fresno's diverse food scene.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) - Fresno operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Fresno, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

http://www.amtrak.com

Bus from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop - IHOP to Hanford

Average Duration

3h 31m

Estimated price

$17-100

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Hanford to Fresno

Average Duration

33m

Estimated price

$1-65

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

Traveling between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Fresno 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.

🚗 Experience a scenic journey from Santa Maria to Fresno, covering a driving distance of 171 miles. The route offers picturesque views as you travel inland through the heart of California. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging between $30 to $45 for the trip from Santa Maria to Fresno by car. Plan your expenses accordingly for a cost-effective road trip adventure. 🛣️ Expect a driving time of approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes as you navigate the highways towards Fresno, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes of central California along the way. Pack snacks and tunes for a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Average price

$30 - $45

🚂 Embark on an exciting train journey from Santa Maria to Fresno covering a distance of 171 miles. The trip includes a transfer involving a 3-hour 50-minute bus ride towards Visalia with AmericanStar agency, followed by a 50-minute bus journey towards Fresno with Kings Area Rural Transit. 🌄 Experience picturesque views as you travel from Santa Maria to Fresno on a route spanning 180 miles with two transfers. Begin with a 3-hour 25-minute bus ride towards Visalia with AmericanStar agency, then switch to a 45-minute bus towards Lemoore, and finally a 52-minute bus towards Fresno, all operated by Kings Area Rural Transit. 🎒 For a slightly longer but equally fascinating journey, opt for the 206-mile route from Santa Maria to Fresno with a single transfer. Enjoy a 4-hour 20-minute bus ride towards Visalia with AmericanStar agency, followed by a 1-hour bus journey towards Visalia Airport with VISALIA TRANSIT, culminating in your arrival at Fresno Airport.

🚌 A trip from Santa Maria to Fresno by bus takes around 6 hours and 43 minutes, covering a distance of 214 miles with a transfer in Visalia.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Maria and Fresno is approximately 130 miles. By road, the distance is 170.6 miles. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a bus and then a train, it would take around 5 hours and 8 minutes to travel from Santa Maria to Fresno. On the other hand, driving by car from Fresno to Santa Maria would take approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Maria to Fresno is by driving. It takes approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes to cover the 170.6-mile road distance between the two cities. The cost of driving ranges from $30 to $45, making it the cheapest option available. Additionally, driving provides the flexibility to make stops along the way and travel on your own schedule.

To travel from Santa Maria to Fresno without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 171 miles. The journey takes about 3 hours and 6 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of fuel for the trip can range from $30 to $45, depending on the current gas prices and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

To travel from Santa Maria to Fresno without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then a train. This journey usually takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes and can cost anywhere between $18 to $170. The bus and train combination provides a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for those who do not have access to a car.

There are many accommodation options available near Fresno. There are over 105 hotels to choose from with a range of prices starting at $56. Some popular hotels in Fresno include the DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Fresno North/Shaw Avenue, and the Courtyard by Marriott Fresno. Visitors to Fresno have a variety of options to suit their needs and budget when it comes to finding a place to stay.