- 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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$-0.01
Fastest journey
6 h 39 m
Average duration
9 h 7 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
313 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
6:43 AM6h39Goleta, CA1:22 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers- 8:43 AM6h59Goleta, CA3:42 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
- 11:13 AM6h59Goleta, CA6:12 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
- 3:43 PM15h49Goleta, CA7:32 AMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
- 6:43 AM6h39Goleta, CA1:22 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
- 8:43 AM6h59Goleta, CA3:42 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
- 11:13 AM6h59Goleta, CA6:12 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
- 3:43 PM15h49Goleta, CA7:32 AMSan Diego, CAFind prices2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $122.
Distance: 194 miles (313 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$83 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $292 Average price | $53 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 48m Average total duration 6h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 28m Average total duration Fastest 4h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $62.
This is compared to other travel options from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $21 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $83.
A train is $230 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $292.
The fastest way to travel from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 28m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 40m.
Train takes on average 6h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Goleta, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Central Coast Shuttle | Departure Time 06:43AM | Arrival Time 01:22PM | Duration 6h39 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Central Coast Shuttle | Departure Time 08:43AM | Arrival Time 03:42PM | Duration 6h59 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Central Coast Shuttle | Departure Time 11:13AM | Arrival Time 06:12PM | Duration 6h59 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator Central Coast Shuttle | Departure Time 03:43PM | Arrival Time 07:32AM | Duration 15h49 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $59 |
Live departures
Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:55 PM Goleta, CA | 8h50 | 5:45 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:45 PM Goleta, CA | 8h00 | 5:45 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 6:43 AM Goleta, CA | 6h39 | 1:22 PM San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 8:43 AM Goleta, CA | 6h59 | 3:42 PM San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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.
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Why should you book Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Central Coast Shuttle offer buses services from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Central Coast Shuttle to find the best option for your trip from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $59 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 21:40. The fastest bus covers the 194 miles (313 km) distance in 8h 0m.
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 194 miles (313 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 8h 0m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 9:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 2 days |
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: FlixBus, Central Coast Shuttle from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Central Coast Shuttle for as low as $59. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$59
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Central Coast Shuttle
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 39m
Central Coast Shuttle frequency
3 a day
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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Goleta, CA 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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $59 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA is $83 ; 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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA is 8h 0m to travel the 194 miles (313 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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 9:40 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus, Central Coast Shuttle. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Central Coast Shuttle for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Goleta, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Goleta, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Goleta, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus.
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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Goleta, CA 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Goleta, CA 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 Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA
Most Goleta, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). Use this guide to compare Goleta, CA 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 Goleta
Arrival bus stations in San Diego
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)
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, 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 Goleta, CA
More options for your journey from Goleta, CA 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 Goleta, CA
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