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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Pismo Beach, CA, USA from $12: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Monica, United States of America
to
Pismo Beach, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach: 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.

$12 by trainBest price
235 kmDistance
3h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica 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.

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
7h  55m
Estimated price
$12-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 235 km
Duration: 3h 13m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
7h  13m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$122-434

Traveling From Santa Monica to Pismo Beach

Embark on a journey from the bustling, vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica to the serene coastal charm of Pismo Beach, where beach bonfires, coastal trails, and a slower pace await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach features charming neighborhoods that offer diverse experiences.

Downtown Pismo Beach
• Walkable access to shops and restaurants.
• Close proximity to the beach and pier.
Shell Beach
• Scenic ocean views and tide pools.
• Quaint atmosphere with boutique hotels.
Pismo Heights
• Stunning hillside vistas of the coastline.
• Tranquil trails for walking and biking.

Best Times To Visit Pismo Beach's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in Pismo Beach.

Pismo Beach Pier
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy stunning ocean views.
Dinosaur Caves Park
Weekdays in the morning are ideal for a quieter family experience.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
Visit from late October to February for the best butterfly sightings.

Pismo Beach Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Pismo Beach enjoys a mild coastal climate with sunny summers and cooler winters, making it a great year-round destination. Visiting in late spring or early fall often yields pleasant weather and fewer tourists, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Try the clam chowder bread bowls at Splash Cafe, which showcase the fresh, local seafood Pismo Beach is known for, providing a comforting contrast to the trendy fusion dishes of Santa Monica. The laid-back atmosphere and focus on hearty, seasonal ingredients create a dining experience that's both casual and authentic, enhancing your taste of the coast.

Santa Monica - Pismo Beach operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to Grover Beach Amtrak

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from UC Santa Barbara Amtrak Bus Stop to Grover Beach Amtrak

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
https://www.bigbluebus.com

Bus from 4Th Sb & Santa Monica Place to Aviation/LAX

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to Grover Beach Amtrak

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$8-110
Plane
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$110-130

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$131-132

Santa Monica to Pismo Beach: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Monica 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach, covering a distance of 187 miles along the stunning California coastline. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $30 to $50 for the journey by car, offering budget-friendly choices for travelers. 🏖️ Arrive at Pismo Beach after approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes of driving, ready to explore the beautiful beaches and charming coastal town.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Embark on a leisurely train journey from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach, spanning a total of 7 hours and 55 minutes. 💰 The cost of a train ticket for this scenic route ranges from $13 to $116, offering passengers flexibility in choosing their preferred seating class.
🛫 Embark on a short and convenient flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport with United Airlines, taking just 1 hour and 4 minutes.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach, travelers can embark on a scenic journey with a total duration of approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes. 🛤️ The trip involves transfers at Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop and West Grand Avenue @ 2nd Street WB, offering passengers the chance to explore different parts of Southern California along the way.
Departure Point
Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Grover Beach Amtrak station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach.

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The distance between Santa Monica and Pismo Beach is 146 miles. By train, it takes approximately 7 hours and 55 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you choose to take a bus, the journey takes around 6 hours and 34 minutes. Driving by car typically takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes.
The most cost-effective option to travel from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach is by train, with prices ranging from $12 to $120. However, this option is also the most time-consuming, taking approximately 7 hours and 55 minutes. On the other hand, driving is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 13 minutes. Although it is slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from $30 to $50, it provides a more time-efficient way to reach Pismo Beach.
The prices for traveling from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach by train range from $13 to $116. The exact fare depends on factors such as the type of train, class of service, and any available discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with the specific train company for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The driving distance is approximately 187 miles, and it usually takes around 3 hours and 13 minutes to drive from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach. Keep in mind that gas prices may vary, but on average, the cost of driving from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach by car can range from $30 to $50.
To travel from Santa Monica to Pismo Beach without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes. There are regular bus services available between the two cities, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.
Yes, there is a link between Santa Monica and Pismo Beach but there is no direct bus service available. However, you can take a combination of buses and trains to reach your destination. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes, including transfers. First, you would take a bus from Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs to Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop, then transfer to another bus that will take you to Grover Beach Amtrak station in Pismo Beach.
The flight between Santa Monica and Pismo Beach typically takes about 1 hour and 1 minute. This is the quickest option available, with direct flights from Los Angeles Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability, but prices usually range from $100 to $300 for this route. It's always a good idea to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Pismo Beach. With over 162 hotels to choose from, travelers will have a wide range of choices. Prices start at $45, offering affordable options for all budgets. Whether you prefer beachfront resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly motels, there is something to suit every traveler's needs near Pismo Beach.

Trips from Santa Monica