- Recommended
History Center of San Luis Obispo County
Regional history museum in a restored Carnegie Library with exhibits on Indigenous communities, ranching, rail, and town life.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 16
- Cheapest price on Nov 16
- $31
- Average ticket price on Nov 16
- $42
- Fastest journey on Nov 16
- 1 h 40 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 16
- 1 h 40 m
- Buses on Nov 16
- 3
- Distance
- 130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 16, we found 3 buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 16 the direct buses cover the 130 km distance in an average of 1 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .
On Mon, Nov 16 the slowest buses will take 1 h 40 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.
6:45 PM 1h40 Santa Barbara, CA 8:25 PM San Luis Obispo, CA $31 1 One-way 0 transfers7:45 PM 1h40 Santa Barbara, CA 9:25 PM San Luis Obispo, CA $33 1 One-way 0 transfers6:15 PM 1h40 Santa Barbara, CA 7:55 PM San Luis Obispo, CA $62 1 One-way 0 transfers
7:45 PM 1h40 Santa Barbara, CA 9:25 PM San Luis Obispo, CA $33 1 One-way 0 transfers6:45 PM 1h40 Santa Barbara, CA 8:25 PM San Luis Obispo, CA $31 1 One-way 0 transfers6:15 PM 1h40 Santa Barbara, CA 7:55 PM San Luis Obispo, CA $62 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:39, the last at 19:25. The fastest bus covers the 80 miles (130 km) distance in 1h 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 80 miles (130 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 1h 40m |
First bus 6:39 AM |
Last bus 7:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA can start from as little as $17 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is $30 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 6:39 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 7:25 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:39AM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 3h26 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:39PM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 3h26 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:39PM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 3h26 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA buses for today, Sunday, November 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 11:15 AM Santa Barbara, Bus station | 1h45 | 1:00 PM San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, November 16 | |||||
| 6:15 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1h40 | 7:55 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Bus providers: FlixBus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA with FlixBus for as low as $17. 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
1h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$17
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Luis Obispo, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to San Luis Obispo, CA
Things to do in San Luis Obispo, CA
Discover the best of San Luis Obispo, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Luis Obispo, CA trip today.
- Recommended
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum
Rail museum by the station with model layouts, restored equipment, and hands-on displays for families and train enthusiasts.
- Recommended
San Luis Obispo Children's Museum
Children’s museum downtown with interactive science, art, and play exhibits designed for younger visitors and family outings.
- Must visit
Mission Plaza
Downtown creekside park with lawns, paths, public art, and regular community events in the center of the city.
- Must visit
Bishop Peak Natural Reserve
Popular local peak with a short but steep trail, broad city views, and sunset scenery close to downtown.
- Recommended
Downtown San Luis Obispo
Compact downtown district with shops, historic facades, galleries, and walkable streets linking major sights and events.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Tri-tip barbecue is Central Coast's signature beef cut, oak-grilled and sliced. It is a regional staple tied to Santa Maria-style cookouts nearby.
- Gluten-free
Santa Maria-Style Beans
Santa Maria-style beans are pink beans simmered with bacon, ham, and spices. They commonly accompany local barbecue across the Central Coast.
Abalone
Abalone is a historic Central Coast seafood, often pan-fried or breaded. It reflects the area's coastal harvest traditions and old California cuisine.
Giuseppe's Cucina Rustica
Long-running seafood house near downtown with oysters, chowder, and fish dishes. Relaxed classic atmosphere focused on fresh coastal fare.
Firestone Grill
Lively downtown grill known for oak-fired tri-tip, steaks, and seafood. Casual, historic setting and a classic place to try Central Coast barbecue.
Novo Restaurant & Lounge
Refined downtown restaurant serving contemporary Californian dishes and cocktails. Stylish atmosphere suited to a more upscale dinner.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for California. Hotels and dining cost more than smaller inland towns, but transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screens.
Plan your visit to San Luis Obispo, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in San Luis Obispo, CA.
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 Luis Obispo, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and occasional fake charity solicitations. It is advisable to avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles and to use reputable transportation services. Overall, the city is considered relatively safe, but staying alert to personal belongings and using common sense helps ensure a secure visit.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA including taking a train and bus.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Santa Barbara
Arrival bus stations in San Luis Obispo
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from Santa Barbara, Bus station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at Santa Barbara, CA, USA.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $3 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara, Bus station bus station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, Bus station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located inside the station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, Bus station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Wheelchair accessible routes available.
Which San Luis Obispo, CA station do buses from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA arrive at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum). San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) is 0 miles (1 km) from San Luis Obispo, CA city centre.
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum)1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA
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 · $3 · 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.
Bus stations for Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Check bus stations information for Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Barbara, Bus station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum), located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Luis Obispo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Luis Obispo, CA
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