- Must visit
Palm Springs Art Museum
The city’s main art museum, known for modern and contemporary art, architecture, and rotating exhibitions. A leading cultural stop in downtown Palm Springs.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$80
Average price
$80
Fastest journey
8 h 50 m
Average duration
8 h 50 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
410 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA will cost around $80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave San Luis Obispo, CA for Palm Springs, CA on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 410 km distance in an average of 8 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 8 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
12:00 PM8h50San Luis Obispo, CA8:50 PMPalm Springs, CA$801One-way0 transfers
- 12:00 PM8h50San Luis Obispo, CA8:50 PMPalm Springs, CA$801One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $80. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $80, and a train costs an average of $662.
Distance: 254 miles (410 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$81 Average price Cheapest | $429 Average price | $662 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 1m Average total duration 8h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 14m Average total duration Fastest 5h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 29m Average total duration 8h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA is a bus with an average price of $81 (€66).
This is compared to other travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA:
A bus is $348 (€285) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA costing on average $429 (€351).
A bus is $582 (€476) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA costing on average $662 (€542).
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 14m.
Other travel options to Palm Springs, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 31m.
Train takes on average 8h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and Palm Springs, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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.
San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 24h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $87 |
Live departures
San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 8h50 | 8:50 PM Palm Springs, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Why should you book San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:02, the last at 14:10. The fastest bus covers the 254 miles (410 km) distance in 8h 50m.
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 254 miles (410 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 (€65) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 8h 50m |
First bus 2:02 AM |
Last bus 2:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Bus providers: FlixBus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CAYou can travel by bus between San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA with FlixBus for as low as $80 (€65). 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
24h 5m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€71)
FlixBus frequency
1 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 Palm Springs
Things to do in Palm Springs
Discover the best of Palm Springs — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Palm Springs trip today.
- Must visit
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum
A modern museum presenting the history, culture, and living traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. One of the city’s most important recent cultural additions.
- Must visit
Palm Springs Air Museum
A highly regarded aviation museum with flyable historic aircraft, large hangars, and strong exhibits on World War II and later conflicts.
- Must visit
Palm Canyon Drive
The main downtown street lined with shops, design spots, hotels, and public art. It is the core strolling area for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Downtown Palm Springs
The city’s central district for walking, shopping, events, and nightlife, with strong Mid-Century Modern character and frequent visitor activity.
- Recommended
VillageFest
A popular weekly street fair in downtown Palm Springs featuring local vendors, entertainment, and a lively evening atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Date Shake
A classic Coachella Valley drink made with locally grown dates blended into a rich milkshake. It is one of the region’s most iconic treats because date farming helped define the desert area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Medjool Dates
Fresh or dried Medjool dates are a signature local product of the Palm Springs area. They are prized for their soft texture and deep caramel-like sweetness.
- Vegetarian
Date Nut Bread
A traditional desert-area baked loaf made with local dates and nuts. It is a longstanding regional specialty often served as a snack or breakfast item.
Spencer's Restaurant
A long-running Palm Springs favorite serving classic American and continental dishes in an elegant setting beneath the mountains.
Sherman's Deli & Bakery
An established casual favorite known for generous deli classics, bakery items, and dependable comfort food in a busy, welcoming setting.
Workshop Kitchen + Bar
A stylish, established downtown restaurant known for seasonal California cooking, craft cocktails, and a dramatic industrial dining room.
United States Dollar
Palm Springs is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or diner meals.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 70+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA can start from as little as $80 (€65) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA is $81 (€66) ; 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA is 8h 50m to travel the 254 miles (410 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 2:02 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 2:10 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Palm Springs, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Luis Obispo, CA and Palm Springs, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Palm Springs, CA from San Luis Obispo, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and Palm Springs, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Palm Springs, CA are:
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, a rotating tram offering panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and access to hiking trails
- Joshua Tree National Park, a vast desert park known for its unique Joshua trees and rock formations
- Palm Springs Art Museum, featuring contemporary and Native American art exhibits
- Indian Canyons, a scenic area with hiking trails and palm oases
- Moorten Botanical Garden, a historic garden showcasing desert plants and cacti.
The best things to do in Palm Springs, CA include:
- Explore the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, a family-friendly attraction with desert animals and botanical gardens
- Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum, home to vintage aircraft and aviation exhibits
- Enjoy a round of golf at one of the many world-class golf courses in the area
- Stroll through the vibrant Palm Springs VillageFest, a weekly street fair with food, crafts, and entertainment
- Relax at a luxurious spa, offering rejuvenating treatments and stunning desert views.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither San Luis Obispo, CA nor Palm Springs, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers or ride-share services and unauthorized street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation options and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night. Additionally, travelers should be mindful of heat-related risks during summer months.
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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Most San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA buses use the San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) to Indio, Indio Blvd (Greyhound Bus Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare San Luis Obispo, CA and Palm Springs, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Luis Obispo
Arrival bus stations in Palm Springs
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum)
City-centre transport
Getting to San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) from San Luis Obispo city centre
Bus3A · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from San Luis Obispo, CA
More options for your journey from San Luis Obispo, CA to Palm Springs, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Palm Springs, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA
Most popular bus connections to Palm Springs, CA
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