- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.
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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 $61. 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 $61, and a flight costs an average of $116.
Distance: 267 miles (431 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$90 Average price | $68 Average price Cheapest | $291 Average price | $69 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 25m Average total duration 7h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 14m Average total duration 8h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 19m 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 San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $68 (€55).
This is compared to other travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $23 (€19) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $90 (€74).
A train is $224 (€183) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $291 (€238).
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 55m.
Train takes on average 8h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Luis Obispo, 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.
San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $136 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $95 |
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.
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Why should you book San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Luis Obispo, 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Luis Obispo, 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 train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 11 times per day, taking around 7h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $52 (€43) 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.
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 267 miles (431 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $52 (€43) |
Buses per day 11 |
Fastest bus 9h 20m |
First bus 3:45 AM |
Last bus 9:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 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 San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus for as low as $52 (€43). 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
9h 20m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
FlixBus frequency
3 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.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Vast cultural park with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, walking paths, and some of San Diego's best photo spots.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Scenic cove known for sea lions, clear water, coastal cliffs, and highly shareable sunset and ocean-view walks.
- Must visit
Coronado Beach
Wide sandy beach beside the Hotel del Coronado, popular for walking, photography, and classic Southern California scenery.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled local fish in tortillas, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature coastal San Diego staple with strong Baja influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego original burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and casual foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shop culture.
Mitch's Seafood
Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh local catch, fish tacos, and sandwiches in a relaxed harbor setting near the fishing fleet.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Historic, no-frills Mexican restaurant famous for house-made tortillas, rolled tacos, and comforting traditional plates. A beloved local institution with a classic atmosphere.
Hodad's
Iconic casual spot in Ocean Beach known for oversized burgers, fries, and a lively beach-town vibe. A long-standing San Diego favorite.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $52 (€43) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is $90 (€74) ; 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 San Diego, CA is 9h 20m to travel the 267 miles (431 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 San Diego, CA leaves at 3:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 9:25 PM.
There are 11 buses a day from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from San Luis Obispo, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, 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 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA
Most San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). Use this guide to compare San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo
Arrival bus stations in San Diego
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
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 San Luis Obispo, CA
More options for your journey from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA
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