The cheapest and fastest buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$108
Fastest journey
9 h 50 m
Average duration
10 h 10 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
431 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Of the 2 buses that leave San Luis Obispo, CA for San Diego, CA on Mon, Mar 23, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Mar 23 the direct buses cover the 431 km distance in an average of 10 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 50 m .
On Mon, Mar 23 the slowest buses will take 10 h 30 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.




Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $62. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $62, and a flight costs an average of $73.
Distance: 267 miles (431 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$81 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $266 Average price |
8h 25m Average total duration 7h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 19m Average total duration 8h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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.
Mar 23
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Mar 29
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 7h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $45 (€36) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:45, the last at 21:25. The fastest bus covers the 267 miles (431 km) distance in 9h 20m.
Distance 267 miles (431 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 (€36) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 9h 20m |
First bus 03:45 |
Last bus 21:25 |
Cheapest month Sep |
Cheapest day Sat |
High season Oct - Dec |
Low season Apr - Jun |
Busiest day Sat |
Least busy day Thu |
Best day to book ahead 21 days |
FAQs: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, 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.

- 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.
- 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
Most popular bus connections from San Luis Obispo, CA
More options for your journey from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
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