Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA bus

Wed, Jul 15
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FlixBus
Alsa
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Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $69. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $69, and a train costs an average of $229.

Distance: 160 miles (258 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$229

Average price

$39

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 28m

Average total duration

4h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is a bus with an average price of $69 (€57).

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

A bus is $160 (€132) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $229 (€189).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 18m.

Other travel options to San Luis Obispo, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 58m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Clara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA including taking a bus and train.
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.

Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
08:08AM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
5h17
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
08:17AM
Arrival Time
01:25PM
Duration
5h08
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
10:28AM
Arrival Time
03:50PM
Duration
5h22
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
10:39AM
Arrival Time
03:50PM
Duration
5h11
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
02:38PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
4h47
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
02:47PM
Arrival Time
07:15PM
Duration
4h28
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
05:22PM
Arrival Time
10:30PM
Duration
5h08
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$69

Live departures

Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA buses for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak529 Capitol Corridor · 4794 AMTRAK10:28 AM Great America Station, Santa Clara, CA
5h22
3:50 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak529 Capitol Corridor · 4794 AMTRAK10:39 AM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA
4h51
3:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak529 Capitol Corridor · 4794 AMTRAK10:39 AM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA
5h11
3:50 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak539 Capitol Corridor · 6241 AMTRAK2:38 PM Great America Station, Santa Clara, CA
4h47
7:25 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak539 Capitol Corridor · 6241 AMTRAK2:47 PM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA
4h28
7:15 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak539 Capitol Corridor · 6241 AMTRAK2:47 PM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA
4h38
7:25 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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.

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Jul 15
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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

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Icon of bus

Buses from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $69 (€57) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 15:55. The fastest bus covers the 160 miles (258 km) distance in 5h 8m.

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
160 miles (258 km)
Average bus duration
4h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$69 (€57)
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
5h 8m
First bus
12:30 AM
Last bus
3:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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

FAQs: Bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Clara, 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA can start from as little as $69 (€57) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is $69 (€57) ; 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 Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is 5h 8m to travel the 160 miles (258 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 Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 3:55 PM.
A trip to San Luis Obispo, CA from Santa Clara, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 8m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Clara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA including taking a bus and train.
No, the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Luis Obispo, CA are:
  • Bubblegum Alley, a narrow alleyway famous for its walls covered in layers of chewed gum left by visitors
  • Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, a historic Spanish mission founded in 1772 with a museum and beautiful gardens
  • Bishop Peak, a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes
  • San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum showcasing works by regional and national artists
  • Avila Beach, a nearby coastal spot known for its sandy shores and scenic pier.
The best things to do in San Luis Obispo, CA include:
  • Stroll through Downtown SLO, a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and the famous Thursday Night Farmers' Market
  • Attend a performance at the Fremont Theater, a historic venue known for its art deco architecture and live events
  • Visit the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum, offering interactive exhibits and activities for kids
  • Explore the local wineries and vineyards, enjoying tastings and tours in the Edna Valley wine region
  • Discover the natural beauty of Montana de Oro State Park, with its rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and scenic hiking trails.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Since neither Santa Clara, CA nor San Luis Obispo, 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.
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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Most Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA buses use the San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) to San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Clara, 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 Clara
Arrival bus stations in San Luis Obispo
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

More options for your journey from Santa Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to San Luis Obispo, CASanta Clara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA bus

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