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Kern County Museum
Well-curated local history museum with exhibits on oil, agriculture, and community life in Kern County.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 31
- Cheapest price on Oct 31
- €55
- Average ticket price on Oct 31
- €55
- Fastest journey on Oct 31
- 10 h 40 m
- Average journey duration on Oct 31
- 10 h 40 m
- Buses on Oct 31
- 1
- Distance
- 137 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost around €55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €55.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA without transferring at least once.
4:40 AM 10h40 Santa Maria, CA 3:20 PM Bakersfield, CA €55 1 One-way 1 transfer
4:40 AM 10h40 Santa Maria, CA 3:20 PM Bakersfield, CA €55 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €88 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (137 km) distance in 5h 30m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance85 miles (137 km)
- Average bus duration5h 30m
- Cheapest ticket price€88
- Buses per day1
- Fastest bus5h 30m
- First bus5:00 AM
- Last bus11:35 PM
- Cheapest MonthMar
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA can start from as little as €88 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA is €88 ; 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €55 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:35AM | Arrival Time 09:39PM | Duration 15h04 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €115 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:47PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 8h58 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €55 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 09:39PM | Duration 6h29 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €64 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 10:39PM | Duration 6h29 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €64 |
Live departures
Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses for today, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:10 PM Santa Maria, CA | 6h29 | 10:39 PM Bakersfield, 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, 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.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA with FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
5h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€88
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 Maria, CA and Bakersfield, 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Bakersfield, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Maria, CA and Bakersfield, 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Bakersfield, CA
Things to do in Bakersfield, CA
Discover the best of Bakersfield, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Buck Owens' Crystal Palace Museum
Museum on the Bakersfield Sound and country music history, with costumes, instruments, and artist memorabilia.
- Recommended
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
Hands-on museum for children with interactive science, art, and role-play exhibits suited to families.
- Recommended
18th Street
Lively downtown street with historic buildings, murals, theaters, and an easy base for walking Bakersfield's core.
- Recommended
Mill Creek Park
Large urban park with lakes, walking paths, art museum access, and open space for a relaxed local outing.
- Recommended
Kern River Parkway Trail
Linear park and trail through downtown, useful for walking and biking between museums, murals, and civic spaces.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Tri-tip barbecue is a Central California staple: beef bottom sirloin seasoned and grilled over red oak, often sliced for sandwiches or plates.
- Gluten-free
Basque Oxtail Stew
Basque oxtail stew reflects Bakersfield's Basque boardinghouse tradition, with slow-braised oxtail in a rich savory sauce served family-style.
- Gluten-free
Pickled Tongue
Pickled tongue is a classic Basque appetizer in Bakersfield, cured and sliced thin with vinegar and spices, common at traditional Basque restaurants.
Wool Growers Restaurant
Historic Basque restaurant known for family-style meals, steaks, tongue, beans, and classic boardinghouse atmosphere.
Horse in the Alley
Upscale steakhouse for dry-aged beef, seafood, and cocktails, suited for a polished dinner in central Bakersfield.
Pyrenees Cafe
Long-running Basque dining room serving oxtail, fried chicken, soups, and hearty set meals in a traditional setting.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. travel. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Los Angeles, but car use and limited transit can raise overall visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts.
Plan your visit to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving fake ticket sales or unauthorized transportation services can occur, so purchasing tickets only through official vendors is advised. It’s also important to stay aware of surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas for safety.
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 Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a bus between Santa Maria, CA and Bakersfield, 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Most Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses use the Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street to Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Maria, CA and Bakersfield, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Santa Maria
Arrival bus stations in Bakersfield
Which Santa Maria, CA station do buses to Bakersfield, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA leave from Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Santa Maria, CA city centre at Nicholson Ave, Santa Maria, CA 93454, USA.
Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress StreetNicholson Ave, Santa Maria, CA 93454, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street from Santa Maria city centre
Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street is 1 km from Santa Maria city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3 · 9m · €1 · every ~2 min
Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street bus station facilities and services
Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street 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 Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street. ATMs are available at Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street: Accessible for passengers with mobility challenges.
Which Bakersfield, CA station do buses from Santa Maria, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA arrive at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal. Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal is 0 miles (1 km) from Bakersfield, CA city centre.
Bakersfield, Amtrak TerminalBakersfield Amtrak, 16th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal from Bakersfield city centre
TRUE
Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal bus station facilities and services
Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal 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 Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal. ATMs are available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal: Wheelchair accessible with assistance.
Bus stations for Santa Maria, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Check bus stations information for Santa Maria, CA and Bakersfield, CA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Maria, CA
Most popular buses to and from Bakersfield, CA and Santa Maria, CA
Most popular bus connections to Bakersfield, CA
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