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Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA to Palm Springs, CA, USA from $27: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), United States of America
to
Palm Springs, United States of America

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

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$27 by busBest price
447 kmDistance
4h 43m 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 Palm Springs 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  30m
Estimated price
$27-111
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$253-647
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 447 km
Duration: 4h 43m

See more options

Company
FlixBus / Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$27-120
Company
Amtrak / FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  25m
Estimated price
$27-120
Company
Amtrak
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  59m
Estimated price
$27-120
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
8h  17m
Estimated price
$135-507
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Traveling From Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Palm Springs

The journey from Santa Maria, known for its beautiful coastal landscapes and wine country, to Palm Springs, a desert oasis famous for its hot springs and vibrant arts scene, offers a striking contrast in scenery and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palm Springs

Palm Springs is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm.

Downtown Palm Springs
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters
• Trendy shops and diverse dining options
Deepwell Estates
• Stunning mid-century modern architecture
• Tranquil atmosphere with beautiful gardens
Racquet Club Estates
• Historic celebrity residences from the 1960s
• Close proximity to hiking trails and outdoor activities

Best Times To Visit Palm Springs's Attractions

Timing your visits to Palm Springs attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning sunset views.
Joshua Tree National Park
Weekdays are ideal to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy peaceful hikes.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Visit during the cooler hours of the morning for active wildlife and fewer visitors.

Palm Springs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palm Springs boasts a warm desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Palm Springs

Try the Moroccan-spiced lamb tagine at The Moroccan Oasis, which introduces a burst of North African flavors that contrasts with Santa Maria’s focus on fresh seafood and wine pairings. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with intricate decor and an open-air courtyard, creates a dining experience that feels both exotic and welcoming, offering a taste of culture that you won’t find at home.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) - Palm Springs operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Maria to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$1115-1116

Bus from Los Angeles Downtown to Palm Springs Downtown

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$1117-50

Bus from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop to Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$278-279

Bus from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$1119-500
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Santa Barbara to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 49m
Estimated price
$276-277

Train from Fullerton Amtrak Station to Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt to Indio/Palm Springs

Average Duration
5h 6m
Estimated price
$130-500
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt to Indio/Palm Springs

Average Duration
5h 19m
Estimated price
$274-275
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt to Indio/Palm Springs

Average Duration
6h 21m
Estimated price
$270-750
all-pages.other Show other routes
Website
slorta.org

Other from Santa Maria Transit Center to Government Center Osos & Palm

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$501-502
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
centralcoastshuttle.com

Other from Santa Maria Airport, CA to Los Angeles Airport, CA

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$503-504

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

Traveling between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Palm Springs 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 from Santa Maria to Palm Springs, spanning a distance of 277 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the beautiful California landscape, taking approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Explore the range of prices for traveling by car from Santa Maria to Palm Springs, with options typically falling between $50 to $75. Plan your budget accordingly and consider factors such as gas, tolls, and potential detours along the way for a smooth and cost-effective journey.
Average price
$50 - $75
🛫 Your journey from Santa Maria to Palm Springs will involve taking a flight with one stopover. The quickest route typically takes around 3 hours and 53 minutes.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
Indio/Palm Springs Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 53m and has one stopover
🚍 Traveling from Santa Maria to Palm Springs by bus is a convenient option, although there are no direct services available. 🌴 The journey involves transferring in Los Angeles Downtown and typically takes around 7 hours and 30 minutes to reach Palm Springs Downtown. 🎫 Bus services for this route are operated by Flixbus USA, with departures from Santa Maria station and arrivals at Palm Springs Downtown station. 💵 Ticket prices can range from $27 to $111, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking to explore Palm Springs from Santa Maria.
Departure Point
Santa Maria station
Arrival Point
Palm Springs Downtown station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santa Maria and Palm Springs is 236 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 277.5 miles. If you choose to travel by bus and train, it would take approximately 9 hours and 14 minutes to reach Palm Springs from Santa Maria. However, if you prefer driving, the typical travel time by car is 4 hours and 43 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which would take around 6 hours and 55 minutes.
For a cost-effective option, taking a bus and night bus from Santa Maria to Palm Springs would be the most budget-friendly choice, with prices ranging from $27 to $120. Although it takes 6 hours and 55 minutes, it allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery. However, if time-efficiency is a priority, driving would be the fastest option, taking approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes and costing between $50 and $75. Keep in mind that traffic conditions and personal preferences should also be considered when deciding which mode of transportation to choose.
The prices for a bus ticket between Palm Springs and Santa Maria can range from $27 to $111, depending on factors such as the date of travel, time of booking, and type of ticket. It is recommended to check with the bus company or online ticketing platforms for the most up-to-date pricing information. Additional charges may apply for any additional services or amenities offered by the bus company.
To get from Santa Maria to Palm Springs without public transportation, you can drive the distance of 277 miles. It takes approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes by car. Depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, the cost of the trip can range from $50 to $75.
To travel from Santa Maria to Palm Springs without a car, the best option is to take a bus and night bus. This journey typically takes around 6 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $27 and $120. It is a convenient and affordable way to reach Palm Springs from Santa Maria, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic route without the hassle of driving.
There is not a direct bus link between Santa Maria and Palm Springs. However, there are bus services available that require a transfer in Los Angeles Downtown. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 55 minutes. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA.
The flight from Santa Maria to Palm Springs typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes with at least one stopover. There is no direct flight between the two locations. The cost of the flight will vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is best to check with various airlines and travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date flight prices.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Palm Springs, with over 1412 hotels available at various price points. Starting at $49, travelers can find a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose from locations within the city itself or explore nearby areas for a more secluded stay. Booking websites and apps can provide further details and help travelers find the perfect place to stay near Palm Springs.

Trips from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Trips to Palm Springs