- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$485
Average price
$485
Fastest journey
2 d 3 h
Average duration
2 d 3 h
Buses per day
1
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 $485 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $485.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 3 times.
7:15 PM51h00Des Moines, IA10:15 PMSan Diego, CA$4851One-way3 transfers
- 7:15 PM51h00Des Moines, IA10:15 PMSan Diego, CA$4851One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 46h 2m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $238 (€193) 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 45h 5m.
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 46h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $238 (€193) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 45h 5m |
First bus 6:45 AM |
Last bus 7:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
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
Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 45h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $238 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:15AM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 45h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $247 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 51h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $485 |
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, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:15 PM Des Moines, IA | 51h00 | 10:15 PM San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
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 $238 (€193). 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 Duration
45h 5m
Cheapest Price
$238 (€193)
Greyhound frequency
1 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
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.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $238 (€193) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Des Moines, IA to San Diego, CA is $250 (€204) ; 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 45h 5m 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 5 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.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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.
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.
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 to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. 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
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre
BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre
BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $2
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min
Most popular bus connections from Des Moines, IA
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
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Des Moines, IA
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