Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA to Pismo Beach, CA, USA from $2: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$2 by busBest price

31 kmDistance

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 Pismo Beach 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 Pismo Beach

Your journey from Santa Maria offers a delightful contrast; bustling vineyards and small-town charm transition to the vibrant coastal atmosphere and stunning beaches of Pismo Beach.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach features diverse neighborhoods each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Shell Beach

• Scenic ocean views and stunning sunsets.

• Quaint shops and cozy dining options.

Pismo State Beach

• Expansive sandy beaches ideal for relaxing.

• Great for water sports and outdoor activities.

Downtown Pismo Beach

• Vibrant atmosphere with various restaurants and shops.

• Close proximity to beach access and pier.

Best Times To Visit Pismo Beach's Attractions

Timing your visits to Pismo Beach's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Pismo Beach Pier

Early morning or weekdays offer smaller crowds and peaceful views.

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

Visit during weekdays in spring or fall for fewer visitors.

Monarch Butterfly Grove

Best in late October through February to see butterflies en masse.

Pismo Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pismo Beach enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with cool summers and temperate winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in spring or fall offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Pismo Beach

For a culinary adventure, try the clam chowder bread bowl at Splash Café; it's a local favorite that showcases the fresh seafood of the coast. This dining experience, with its relaxed beachside vibe and bold flavors, starkly contrasts the hearty barbecue culture of Santa Maria, offering you a taste of coastal life.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) - Pismo Beach operators

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

Bus

Website

https://www.slorta.org

Bus from Santa Maria Transit Center to Pismo Beach Premium Outlet Center

Average Duration

41m

Estimated price

$2-3

Taxi

Contact phone

+1-805-347-0000

Taxi from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach

Average Duration

21m

Estimated price

$65-80

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

Traveling between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Pismo Beach 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.

🌊 Embrace the coastal charm as you embark on a scenic 19-mile drive from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach, taking roughly 21 minutes to reach your destination. 🚗 With prices ranging from $3 to $6 for the journey by car, enjoy the affordability and convenience of exploring the beautiful shoreline between these two captivating California destinations.

Average price

$3 - $6

🚆 Experience a scenic train journey from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach USA! The trip takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes, covering a distance of 18.7 miles. Start your adventure with a bus ride towards Visalia before boarding the San Francisco Shuttle at Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, operated by AmericanStar. 🌊 Arrive in style at Pismo Beach after a relaxing train ride from Santa Maria! The journey lasts approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes, passing through picturesque landscapes over 18.7 miles. Catch a bus to Oakland, then transfer to the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service at Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, managed by Amtrak Chartered Vehicle. 🌴 Enjoy a convenient and hassle-free trip to Pismo Beach by train from Santa Maria! With multiple route options ranging from 1 hour 9 minutes to 7 hours 4 minutes, there's a journey suited for your time preferences. Kick off your adventure with a bus transfer towards San Jose or Oakland before reaching Grover Beach on the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service.

🌊 The scenic journey along the California coast takes approximately 41 minutes with San Luis Obispo RTA bus services. Departing and arriving at designated stations, the ride offers an affordable way to travel between these charming coastal destinations. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Pismo Beach and Santa Maria range from $2 to $3, making it an economical option for travelers looking to explore the central coast of California. Sit back, relax, and soak in the picturesque views on this hassle-free bus ride.

Departure Point

Santa Maria Transit Center station

Arrival Point

Pismo Beach Premium Outlet Center station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Maria and Pismo Beach is approximately 18 miles or 19 miles by road. The typical travel time between the two cities by car is around around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, if you choose to travel by bus, it takes around 30 minutes to reach Pismo Beach from Santa Maria.

The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach is to take the line 10 bus, which costs $2-$3 and takes about 41 minutes. This is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind spending a bit more time on the road. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to get from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach is to take a taxi, which costs $65-$80 and takes approximately 21 minutes. This option is ideal for those who want to reach their destination quickly and are willing to pay a higher fare.

The prices for a bus ticket between Pismo Beach and Santa Maria range from $2 to $3. These prices may vary depending on the bus company and any promotions or discounts that may be available. It is recommended to check with the specific bus company for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. However, it is important to note that prices are subject to change and may vary on different days or at different times.

To travel from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach without using public transportation, you can take a car. The distance between the two cities is 19 miles, and it takes approximately 21 minutes to drive. The cost of this drive can vary but is typically between $3 and $6, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This is a convenient and efficient option for reaching Pismo Beach from Santa Maria.

If you're looking to travel from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach without a car, the best option is to take the line 10 bus. The bus ride typically takes about 41 minutes and costs $2-$3. This is a convenient and affordable way to reach Pismo Beach, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery while someone else does the driving. Just be sure to check the bus schedule to plan your trip accordingly.

Yes, there is a direct bus link between Santa Maria and Pismo Beach. The bus service operated by San Luis Obispo RTA departs from the Santa Maria Transit Center and arrives at the Pismo Beach Premium Outlet Center. The buses run hourly and operate every day, with the journey taking approximately 41 minutes.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Pismo Beach. With over 162 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start as low as $45 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly motels, you will find a range of choices in Pismo Beach.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Santa Maria to Pismo Beach by bicycle. The distance of the route is approximately , and it typically takes about to complete the journey. The route usually follows scenic coastal roads and bike paths, providing an enjoyable and picturesque biking experience.