- 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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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 an average ticket price of $66 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 8h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $66, while a train costs an average of $66.
Distance: 243 miles (392 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price Cheapest | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
8h 43m Average total duration Fastest 8h 13m 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 $66.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is by train with an average journey time of 8h 13m.
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.
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 $136 |
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 10:05AM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
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
Take a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA and enjoy the approximately 243 miles (392 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 04:01, the last at 21:25.
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 $64
Distance 243 miles (392 km) |
First bus 4:01 AM |
Last bus 9:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
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 $64
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
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.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Maria, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA
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Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA
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