1map logoGo to main page

Santa Monica, CA, USA to San Luis Obispo, CA, USA from $13: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Monica, United States of America
to
San Luis Obispo, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo: 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.

$13 by trainBest price
320 kmDistance
3h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo 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 Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
7h  24m
Estimated price
$13-114
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 320 km
Duration: 3h 25m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  11m
Estimated price
$20-72
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
LAX - SBP
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$172-463
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo

The journey from Santa Monica, with its vibrant beach culture and bustling boardwalk, to San Luis Obispo, known for its charming downtown and picturesque landscapes, offers a refreshing contrast between urban excitement and serene countryside.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to various interests.

Downtown SLO
• Vibrant dining and shopping options.
• Hosts the popular Farmers' Market on Thursdays.
Edna Valley
• Renowned for picturesque vineyards and wineries.
• Ideal for scenic hikes and outdoor picnics.
California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) area
• Bustling atmosphere energized by college life.
• Offers cultural events and art exhibits year-round.

Best Times To Visit San Luis Obispo's Attractions

Timing your visit to popular attractions in San Luis Obispo can enhance your overall experience.

Hearst Castle
Visit on weekdays or during the off-season to enjoy shorter lines and a more relaxed tour.
San Luis Obispo Museum of Art
Weekday mornings offer a quieter atmosphere to explore curated exhibits and local art.
Bishop Peak
Early mornings on weekends provide cooler temperatures and fewer hikers for a peaceful trek.

San Luis Obispo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Luis Obispo enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are in spring and fall when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, while summer can bring warmer days, perfect for beach excursions.

Dining Recommendation in San Luis Obispo

Try the artisan pizzas at Firestone Grill, where the emphasis on local, fresh ingredients creates a flavor profile that highlights the region's agricultural bounty. Unlike the trendy, coastal cuisine in Santa Monica, dining here offers a relaxed atmosphere paired with hearty, soulful dishes that reflect the area's unique character.

Santa Monica - San Luis Obispo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Monica and San Luis Obispo, 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 Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
6h 1m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
5h 26m
Estimated price
$132-133

Bus from UC Santa Barbara Amtrak Bus Stop to San Luis Obispo Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$20-72
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from 5th / Santa Monica to Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Downtown Santa Monica Station to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
7h 24m
Estimated price
$132-133
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$134-135

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$134-136

Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Monica and San Luis Obispo 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 Monica to San Luis Obispo, covering a distance of 199 miles in approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. Enjoy the scenic views as you drive along the California coastline. 💸 The cost of getting from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo by car ranges from $35 to $55, offering an affordable and flexible travel option. Pack some snacks, create a road trip playlist, and make memories along the way.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Embark on a picturesque train journey from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo! Although there is no direct route, you'll experience a scenic route with transfers at Downtown Santa Monica Station, 7th Street / Metro Center Station - Metro B & D Lines, and Los Angeles. 🌊 Traverse through charming coastal landscapes and rolling hills on your way to San Luis Obispo. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 24 minutes. Immerse yourself in the beauty of California's diverse terrain along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for the Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo train ride range from $13 to $114. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of rail travel as you make your way to the welcoming city of San Luis Obispo, known for its vibrant culture and historic attractions. 🚉
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station
🛫 Your journey from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo begins with a quick and convenient direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, lasting just 1 hour and 8 minutes.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚌 Despite the lack of a direct bus route, travelers can reach San Luis Obispo from Santa Monica by taking a service departing from Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs. The journey involves transfers and lasts around 6 hours and 1 minute. 🌊 Arriving at San Luis Obispo station, the Amtrak-operated bus service from Santa Monica takes approximately 6 hours and 1 minute, offering a scenic route through Southern California.
Departure Point
Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santa Monica and San Luis Obispo is 152 miles by road. By train, it takes approximately 7 hours and 24 minutes to travel between the two cities. Another option is to take a Line 3 bus and then fly to San Luis Obispo County Airport, which takes about 4 hours and 12 minutes. Driving by car usually takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes, while taking a bus takes approximately 6 hours and 1 minute.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo is by taking the line 33 bus and bus, which costs between $19 and $75 and takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 25 minutes and costing between $35 and $55 for fuel. It is important to consider both cost and time when deciding which transportation option to choose for your journey.
The prices for a train ticket between Santa Monica and San Luis Obispo range from $13 to $114, depending on the type of ticket and seating options. It is best to check the specific train service provider for accurate pricing information and any current deals or promotions available. Additional costs may also apply for other modes of transportation such as bus or air travel.
To get from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is 199 miles, which takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. The estimated cost for a car trip is around $35 to $55, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Santa Monica to San Luis Obispo without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 1 minute. There are reliable bus services available that offer this route, ensuring a convenient and comfortable travel experience.
Yes, there is a connection between Santa Monica and San Luis Obispo but it involves transfers. If you prefer to travel by train, it takes approximately 7 hours and 24 minutes, with transfers at Downtown Santa Monica Station, 7th Street/Metro Center Station, and Los Angeles. If you prefer to travel by bus, it takes approximately 6 hours and 1 minute, with transfers at Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop. It's important to note that there are no direct train or bus services between the two cities.
The flight between Santa Monica and San Luis Obispo typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes. The quickest and most convenient option is a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it usually ranges from $100 to $300. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are numerous hotels available in San Luis Obispo offering a range of prices to suit different budgets. With over 213 hotels to choose from, you will have plenty of options. Prices start at $45 per night, offering affordable accommodation choices. Whether you're looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget options, there is a hotel in San Luis Obispo that will meet your needs.

Trips from Santa Monica

Trips to San Luis Obispo