- 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$43
Fastest journey
4 h 20 m
Average duration
5 h 49 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
136 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Palm Springs, CA 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
2:50 PM6h55Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA9:45 PMLa Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA$391One-way1 transfer- FlixBus+2:50 PM7h25Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA10:15 PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA$401One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+2:50 PM7h55Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA10:45 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center$421One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+12:20 PM10h25Desert Hot Springs, Palm Drive (Jack In The Box), CA10:45 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center$421One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:15 PM4h55North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA6:10 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA$441One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:15 PM4h20North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA5:35 PMLa Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA$441One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:15 PM4h55North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA6:10 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA$441One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:15 PM5h30North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA6:45 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center$461One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+2:50 PM6h55Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA9:45 PMLa Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA$391One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+2:50 PM7h25Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA10:15 PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA$401One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $37, and a bus costs an average of $37.
Distance: 84 miles (136 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$64 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $40 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $23 (€19) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $64 (€52).
The fastest way to travel from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 33m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Palm Springs, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Palm Springs, 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.
Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $39 |
Live departures
Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ | 12:20 PM Desert Hot Springs, Palm Drive (Jack In The Box), CA | 10h25 | 10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:15 PM North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA | 4h20 | 5:35 PM La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:15 PM North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA | 4h55 | 6:10 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:15 PM North Palm Springs, Garnet Avenue (Chevron), CA | 5h30 | 6:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 2:50 PM Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA | 7h25 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 2:50 PM Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA | 7h55 | 10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 2:50 PM Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA | 6h55 | 9:45 PM La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |||||
| · | 2:10 AM Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station), CA | 10h10 | 12:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA by bus or train
Compare bus 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Palm Springs, 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 and train to find the ideal travel option from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $37 (€31) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 01:35, the last at 20:15. The fastest bus covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 5h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $37 (€31)
Distance 84 miles (136 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 5h 5m |
First bus 1:35 AM |
Last bus 8:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $37 (€31)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus for as low as $37 (€31). 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
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
FlixBus frequency
13 a day
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.
Complete guide to San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $37 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA is $64 (€52) ; 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA is 5h 5m to travel the 84 miles (136 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 1:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 8:15 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Palm Springs, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Palm Springs, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Palm Springs, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Most Palm Springs, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station) to La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). Use this guide to compare Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs
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, 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
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)
Most popular bus connections from Palm Springs, CA
More options for your journey from Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Diego, CA
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