Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA bus with Greyhound

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$169

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$202

Fastest journey on Sep 19

1 d 18 h

Average journey duration on Sep 19

1 d 22 h 3 m

Buses on Sep 19

8

Distance

2299 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA will cost around $202 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $169.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound ·
    9:20 AM58h25
    Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
    5:45 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
    $1691One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound ·
    6:00 AM55h45
    Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
    11:45 AMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
    $1771One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus
    7:35 PM42h20
    Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
    11:55 AMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA
    $1811One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus
    7:35 PM42h00
    Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
    11:35 AMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
    $1821One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    7:35 PM54h15
    Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
    11:50 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
    $1921One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $206 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 42h 30m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $206, while a bus costs an average of $206.

Distance: 1428 miles (2299 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Driving

$206

Average price

Cheapest

$358

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

42h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

42h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

25h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $206.
The fastest way to travel from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 42h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around $206 compared to roughly $358 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $152. The journey takes 42h 0m versus 25h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:00AM
Arrival Time
11:45AM
Duration
55h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$166
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
05:45PM
Duration
58h25
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$166
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:35PM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
42h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$162

Live departures

Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · 6:00 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
55h45
11:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · 6:00 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
56h20
12:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center3 transfers
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · 6:00 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
54h05
10:05 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA4 transfers
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · 6:00 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
54h25
10:25 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA4 transfers
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · 9:20 AM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
58h25
5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · · 7:35 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
54h15
11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus7:35 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
48h45
6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA4 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus7:35 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
42h20
11:55 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus7:35 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
42h55
12:30 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus7:35 PM Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA
42h00
11:35 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA by bus or flight

Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sat
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?

Greyhound operates all buses services from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 42h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $179 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 06:45, the last at 19:35. The fastest bus covers the 1428 miles (2299 km) distance in 37h 25m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
1428 miles (2299 km)
Average bus duration
42h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$179
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
37h 25m
First bus
6:45 AM
Last bus
7:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Bus providers: Greyhound from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA with Greyhound for as low as $179. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

Greyhound

About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Duration
37h 25m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$179
Greyhound frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.

Complete guide to San Diego, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

FAQs: Bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $179 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is $206 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is 37h 25m to travel the 1428 miles (2299 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA leaves at 6:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA leaves at 7:35 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Des Moines, IA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Des Moines, IA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA, San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.), IA, which is located around 1 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, located 5 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Des Moines, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 37h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Des Moines, IA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
  • Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
  • USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
  • La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
  • Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
  • Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
  • Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
  • enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
  • hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
  • visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
  • experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
  • Greyhound
    • You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Des Moines, IA nor San Diego, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

Most Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA buses use the Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s). Use this guide to compare Des Moines, IA and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Des Moines
Arrival bus stations in San Diego

Which Des Moines, IA station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?

Buses from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA leave from Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.). The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Des Moines, IA city centre at 1625 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA.
Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.)1625 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) from Des Moines city centre

Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) is 3 km from Des Moines city centre. Public transport options include:

TRUE

Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) bus station facilities and services

Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.). ATMs are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Des Moines, E Euclid Ave (Clark Lift Of Des Moines, Inc.): Wheelchair accessible buses available.

More options for your journey from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to San Diego, CADes Moines, IA to San Diego, CA bus

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