- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
€0.00
Average price
€44
Fastest journey
9 h 27 m
Average duration
13 h 21 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
392 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 3 times.
6:15 AM9h27Santa Maria, CA3:42 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices3 transfers- 8:15 AM9h57Santa Maria, CA6:12 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices3 transfers
- 1:15 PM18h17Santa Maria, CA7:32 AMSan Diego, CAFind prices3 transfers
- 10:15 AM12h00Santa Maria, CA10:15 PMSan Diego, CA€1111One-way3 transfers
- 5:00 PM17h05Santa Maria, CA10:05 AMSan Diego, CA€1111One-way3 transfers
- 6:15 AM9h27Santa Maria, CA3:42 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices3 transfers
- 8:15 AM9h57Santa Maria, CA6:12 PMSan Diego, CAFind prices3 transfers
- 10:15 AM12h00Santa Maria, CA10:15 PMSan Diego, CA€1111One-way3 transfers
- 5:00 PM17h05Santa Maria, CA10:05 AMSan Diego, CA€1111One-way3 transfers
- 1:15 PM18h17Santa Maria, CA7:32 AMSan Diego, CAFind prices3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €52. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 6h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €52, and a bus costs an average of €111.
Distance: 243 miles (392 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€111 Average price | €67 Average price Cheapest | €46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 20m Average total duration Fastest 6h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 30m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of €67.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is €44 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average €111.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 6h 50m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 03:42PM | Duration 9h27 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 06:12PM | Duration 9h57 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €111 |
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 07:32AM | Duration 18h17 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 01:22PM | Duration 20h22 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €0.00 |
Live departures
Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 AM Santa Maria, CA | 9h27 | 3:42 PM San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 8:15 AM Santa Maria, CA | 9h57 | 6:12 PM San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 10:15 AM Santa Maria, CA | 12h00 | 10:15 PM San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 1:15 PM Santa Maria, CA | 18h17 | 7:32 AM San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 5:00 PM Santa Maria, CA | 20h22 | 1:22 PM San Diego, CA | 3 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €111 but you can travel from only €52 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:01, the last at 21:25. The fastest bus covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 9h 27m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €52
Distance 243 miles (392 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price €111 |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 9h 27m |
First bus 4:01 AM |
Last bus 9:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 3 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €52
Bus providers: Santa Maria Area Transit from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA with Santa Maria Area Transit for as low as €52. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Santa Maria Area Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 27m
Cheapest Price
€111
Santa Maria Area Transit frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as €111 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is €111 ; 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 San Diego, CA is 9h 27m to travel the 243 miles (392 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 San Diego, CA leaves at 4:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 9:25 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Santa Maria Area Transit. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on Santa Maria Area Transit for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Santa Maria, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street, CA . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA, San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street, CA, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, located 22 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Santa Maria, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 27m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA has no accessibility options.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
- Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
- USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
- La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
- Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
- Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
- enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
- hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
- experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, 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 Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Santa Maria, CA nor San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 San Diego, CA
Most Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). Use this guide to compare Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego
Which Santa Maria, CA station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA station do buses from Santa Maria, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). Some services arrive at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) from San Diego city centre
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) bus station facilities and services
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several dining options are in the area.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). ATMs are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Accessible for persons with disabilities.
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit CenterSan Ysidro Station, San Diego, CA 92173, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · €2
910 · 41m · €5
TramBlue · 41m · €14 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · €14 · every ~14 min
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center bus station facilities and services
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Maria, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA
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