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Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA to Salinas, CA, USA from $9: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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

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$9 - Bus, TrainBest price
222 kmDistance
2h 40m 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 Salinas 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
3h  40m
Estimated price
$15-60
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$9-111
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 222 km
Duration: 2h 40m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$28-45
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Traveling From Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Salinas

The journey from Santa Maria, known for its charming coastal vibes and vineyards, to Salinas, a city infused with agricultural heritage and vibrant culture, offers contrasting landscapes and experiences sure to invigorate your travels.

Best Neighbourhoods in Salinas

Salinas offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and attractions.

Downtown Salinas
• Bustling shops and restaurants line the vibrant streets.
• Hosts local events and a lively farmer's market.
East Salinas
• Features beautiful parks and recreational areas.
• A hub for authentic local cuisine and culture.
North Salinas
• Offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with great schools.

Best Times To Visit Salinas's Attractions

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

National Steinbeck Center
Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
Salinas Valley Fairgrounds
Check event calendars for off-peak times to enjoy local festivities.
El Paso de Robles Historical Museum
Mornings during weekdays offer a peaceful exploration of local history.

Salinas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Salinas enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with cool, foggy summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. For the best travel experience, visiting during late spring or early fall offers comfortable temperatures and clearer skies.

Dining in Salinas: A Culinary Contrast

For a delightful contrast to Santa Maria's wine country cuisine, try the fresh seafood tacos at El Pescador, where the flavors of the ocean shine through locally sourced ingredients. The vibrant atmosphere and commitment to authentic Mexican recipes provide a unique dining experience that showcases Salinas' rich agricultural heritage.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) - Salinas operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Salinas, 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
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Santa Maria to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$15-60

Bus from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from San Luis Obispo to Salinas

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$5-90
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Maria to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$15-60
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
http://www.amtrak.com

Bus from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop - IHOP to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$154-156
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Luis Obispo to Salinas

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$5-90

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

Traveling between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) and Salinas 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 Maria to Salinas, covering 159 miles of California's beautiful landscapes. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly options, with car travel costs ranging between $28 to $45 for the journey from Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County to Salinas. ⏱️ With an estimated driving time of 2 hours and 40 minutes, this drive offers the perfect opportunity to explore the coastal beauty and charming towns along the way.
Average price
$28 - $45
🚌 The bus journey from Santa Maria to Salinas is a convenient option, with a direct route departing every three hours every day. The trip typically takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes. 🚌 Travelers can expect ticket prices for the Santa Maria to Salinas bus to range from $15 to $60, offering an affordable transportation option between these two California cities.
Departure Point
Santa Maria station
Arrival Point
Salinas Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Maria and Salinas is 138 miles by air or 159 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes to reach Salinas from Santa Maria by taking a bus and then a train. Alternatively, it takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to drive from Santa Maria to Salinas by car. Taking a bus directly from Santa Maria to Salinas usually takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Maria to Salinas is to take the bus. It takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $15 and $60. If you prefer a quicker option, driving is the best choice, taking around 2 hours and 40 minutes, with a cost of $28 to $45. Consider your budget and time constraints when deciding which mode of transportation is best for your journey.
The prices of a bus between Salinas and Santa Maria range from $15 to $60. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and any promotions or discounts that may be available. It is recommended to check with the bus company or online travel websites for the most up-to-date prices and to compare different options before making a booking.
To get from Santa Maria to Salinas without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 159 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes by car. The driving route offers flexibility and convenience, and prices for a one-way trip can vary between $28 and $45, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Santa Maria to Salinas without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes and the ticket prices range from $15 to $60. This is a convenient and affordable way to reach Salinas from Santa Maria, allowing you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenic drive.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Maria and Salinas. Amtrak operates a bus service that departs from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop and arrives at Salinas. The bus service runs every four hours, seven days a week, and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct transportation option between the two cities.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Salinas. There are 163+ hotels available in the area, providing a range of choices for travelers. Prices start at $53, so there are options available for various budgets. It is recommended to search for hotels in Salinas and consider factors such as location, amenities, and guest reviews to find the best option that suits your needs.

Trips from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)