San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA bus with FlixBus

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

kr1655

Average ticket price on Sep 19

kr1680

Fastest journey on Sep 19

7 h 42 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

8 h 7 m

Buses on Sep 19

3

Distance

431 km

Cheap tickets

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 kr1680 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr1655.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak6299 · 786
    1:10 PM7h42
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
    kr16551One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak6299 · 786
    1:10 PM7h57
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    kr16661One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak6299 · 786
    12:25 PM8h42
    San Luis Obispo, CA
    9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    kr17201One-way
    1 transfer

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 bus, with an average ticket price of kr673 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr673, while a flight costs an average of kr6652.

Distance: 267 miles (431 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

kr673

Average price

Cheapest

kr811

Average price

kr6652

Average price

kr663

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 32m

Average total duration

8h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 6m

Average total duration

8h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 8m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

5h 19m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of kr673.

This is compared to other travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA:

A bus is kr137 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average kr811.

A bus is kr5979 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average kr6652.

The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 8m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 2m.

Train takes on average 8h 36m.

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. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around kr673 compared to roughly kr663 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr-10.71. The journey takes 8h 2m versus 5h 19m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
07:07PM
Duration
8h22
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
kr1720
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
06:52PM
Duration
7h22
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
kr1655
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:00PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
10h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
kr328
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
09:07PM
Duration
8h42
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr1719
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
09:07PM
Duration
7h57
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr1655

Live departures

San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak6299 · 78612:25 PM San Luis Obispo, CA
8h42
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak6299 · 7861:10 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
7h42
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak6299 · 7861:10 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
7h57
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer

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 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

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
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 8h 2m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr282 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 7h 40m.

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
8h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
kr282
Buses per day
3
Fastest bus
7h 40m
First bus
3:45 AM
Last bus
9:25 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 kr282. 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 FlixBus Duration
7h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
kr282
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, 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

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • 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.

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 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as kr282 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is kr673 ; 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 7h 40m 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 3 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.
When departing from San Luis Obispo, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum), CA . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA, San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum), CA, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, located 5 away from the city centre.
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 7h 40m 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, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus.
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.
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, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). 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

Which San Luis Obispo, CA station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?

Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA leave from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Luis Obispo, CA city centre at 1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA.
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum)1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) from San Luis Obispo city centre

San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) is 1 km from San Luis Obispo city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus3A · 7m · kr23 · every ~2 min

San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) bus station facilities and services

San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum). ATMs are available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum): Basic accessibility features available.

Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to San Diego, CASan Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA bus

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