- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, gardens, and panoramic city views.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$17
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h 33 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
142 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave San Marcos, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Thu, Jul 09, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct buses cover the 142 km distance in an average of 2 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest buses will take 3 h 5 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.
4:20 AM2h00San Marcos, CA6:20 AMLos Angeles, CA$171One-way0 transfers- 2:35 PM3h05San Marcos, CA5:40 PMLos Angeles, CA$361One-way0 transfers
- 4:20 AM2h00San Marcos, CA6:20 AMLos Angeles, CA$171One-way0 transfers
- 2:35 PM3h05San Marcos, CA5:40 PMLos Angeles, CA$361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 2m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $31 Average price | $679 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 30m Average total duration 3h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 49m 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 San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $24 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $7 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $31 (€26).
The fastest way to travel from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Marcos, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, 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 $24 (€20) compared to roughly $679 (€558) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $655 (€538). The journey takes 3h 0m versus 1h 49m 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.
Direct services are operated by Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 05:57AM | Duration 2h42 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 06:20AM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 09:15AM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:40PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $29 |
Live departures
San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:55 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 2h35 | 10:30 PM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:40 PM Oceanside | 1h50 | 10:30 PM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 8 | |||||
| 4:20 AM San Marcos, CA | 2h00 | 6:20 AM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:35 PM San Marcos, CA | 3h05 | 5:40 PM Los Angeles, 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
Wed
Jul 08
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Jul 09
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Jul 11
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Why should you book San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
- 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 20 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 19 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:10, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 88 miles (142 km) distance in 2h 0m.
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 88 miles (142 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Buses per day 20 |
Direct buses 19 |
Fastest bus 2h 0m |
First bus 5:10 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
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: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $17 (€14). 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
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
FlixBus frequency
16 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.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Greyhound frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Los Angeles
Things to do in Los Angeles
Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The largest art museum in the western United States, known for broad global collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Contemporary art museum with a high-profile collection featuring works by Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to some of the city’s best outdoor viewpoints.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Southern California waterfront area popular for ocean views, walks, and iconic beach atmosphere.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, murals, skate energy, and people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, usually served with savory jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
Street Tacos
Small corn-tortilla tacos filled with meats such as carne asada, al pastor, or carnitas, topped simply with onion, cilantro, and salsa. They reflect the city’s deep Mexican culinary influence.
- Gluten-free
Korean Barbecue
Grilled marinated meats cooked at the table, commonly enjoyed with banchan in Koreatown. Los Angeles is especially famous for its vibrant Korean barbecue culture.
Bestia
Popular upscale restaurant in the Arts District known for house-made charcuterie, pasta, and a stylish industrial setting.
Philippe The Original
Historic casual eatery best known for the French dip sandwich, old-school counter service, and classic Los Angeles atmosphere.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for mole, tlayudas, and lively traditional flavors in a vibrant setting.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is costly for visitors, especially lodging, parking, and dining. Casual food is manageable, but transport and attractions add up quickly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food, tacos, or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20% is common for good service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $24 (€20) ; 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 2h 0m to travel the 88 miles (142 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 5:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 19 direct buses a day from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Marcos, CA and Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from San Marcos, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Marcos, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- 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 Greyhound, 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither San Marcos, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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 Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Most San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes. Use this guide to compare San Marcos, CA and Los Angeles, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Marcos
Arrival bus stations in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) from Los Angeles city centre
Bus4X · 8m · $2
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 12m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes from Los Angeles city centre
Bus40, 74 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
33 · 4m · $2 · every ~9 min
D · 11m · $5 · every ~12 min
490, 495, 499, 699, 493, 498, 707 · 13m · $7 · every ~9 min
TramMetro A Line · 10m · $2 · every ~12 min
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 10m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking from Los Angeles city centre
Bus92 · 1m · $2 · every ~6 min
D · 2m · $5 · every ~12 min
More options for your journey from San Marcos, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and San Marcos, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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