- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, architecture, and city views; one of Los Angeles’s signature cultural sites.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$98
Average price
$100
Fastest journey
9 h 5 m
Average duration
9 h 5 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
224 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Santa Maria, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 224 km distance in an average of 9 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 5 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 9 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.
4:10 PM9h05Santa Maria, CA1:15 AMLos Angeles, CA$981One-way0 transfers- 3:10 PM9h05Santa Maria, CA12:15 AMLos Angeles, CA$1021One-way0 transfers
- 4:10 PM9h05Santa Maria, CA1:15 AMLos Angeles, CA$981One-way0 transfers
- 3:10 PM9h05Santa Maria, CA12:15 AMLos Angeles, CA$1021One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $64. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $64, and a bus costs an average of $39.
Distance: 139 miles (224 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$92 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $32 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company | Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a train with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A train is $20 (€17) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $92 (€75).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 59m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.
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 Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 12:15AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $110 |
Live departures
Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 4:40 PM Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street, CA | 3h10 | 7:50 PM Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 3:10 PM Santa Maria, CA | 9h05 | 12:15 AM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:10 PM Santa Maria, CA | 9h05 | 1:15 AM 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 Santa Maria, 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
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Jun 22
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Santa Maria Area Transit offer buses services from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Santa Maria Area Transit to find the best option for your trip from Santa Maria, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:40, the last at 20:30. The fastest bus covers the 139 miles (224 km) distance in 3h 10m.
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 139 miles (224 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 3h 10m |
First bus 4:40 AM |
Last bus 8:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 4 days |
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, Santa Maria Area Transit from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA with FlixBus, Santa Maria Area Transit for as low as $39 (€32). 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
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
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.
Santa Maria Area Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€92)
Santa Maria Area Transit frequency
5 a day
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 iconic Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Popular contemporary art museum in Downtown Los Angeles with works by Kusama, Warhol, and other major postwar artists.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to major attractions; a classic Los Angeles outdoor destination.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Iconic oceanfront boardwalk area with classic California views and broad appeal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, skate scenes, murals, and constant people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, served with rich jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
L.A.-Style Tacos
Street tacos are central to Los Angeles food culture, especially carne asada, al pastor, and grilled fish tacos served on corn tortillas with salsa, onion, and cilantro.
Korean Barbecue
A signature Los Angeles meal shaped by Koreatown, featuring grilled marinated meats, banchan, and shared dining. The city is especially known for its strong Korean barbecue scene.
Providence
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant known for refined seafood tasting menus and elegant service. One of Los Angeles’s top special-occasion destinations.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown institution famous for the French dip sandwich. Casual, old-school atmosphere and one of Los Angeles’s most iconic food stops.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for complex moles, tlayudas, and mezcal. Lively atmosphere and a landmark for regional Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is expensive for visitors. Hotels, parking, and dining add up quickly, though casual food and some neighborhoods offer better value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast-food spots.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $39 (€32) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $92 (€75) ; 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 Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 3h 10m to travel the 139 miles (224 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 Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 4:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 8:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Santa Maria Area Transit for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Maria, CA and Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from Santa Maria, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Most Santa Maria, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses use the Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street 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 Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria
Arrival bus stations in Los Angeles
Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street from Santa Maria city centre
Bus3 · 9m · $1 · every ~2 min
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 Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave)
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave) from Los Angeles city centre
Bus94 · 1h 13m · $2 · every ~7 min
94 · 1h 14m · $2 · every ~7 min
94 · 1h 15m · $2 · every ~7 min
SubwayMetro B Line · 49m · $5 · every ~12 min
Metro B Line · 57m · $2 · every ~12 min
More options for your journey from Santa Maria, 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 Santa Maria, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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