Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA bus with Clean Air Express

Thu, May 07
+ Add return
Clean Air Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
Clean Air Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$0.00

Average price

$139

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.

  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    6:15 AM9h27
    Santa Maria, CA
    3:42 PMSan Diego, CA
    Find prices
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    8:15 AM9h57
    Santa Maria, CA
    6:12 PMSan Diego, CA
    Find prices
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    1:15 PM18h17
    Santa Maria, CA
    7:32 AMSan Diego, CA
    Find prices
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    10:15 AM12h00
    Santa Maria, CA
    10:15 PMSan Diego, CA
    $1391One-way
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    5:00 PM17h05
    Santa Maria, CA
    10:05 AMSan Diego, CA
    $1391One-way
    3 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 $65. 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 $65, and a bus costs an average of $83.

Distance: 243 miles (392 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

$83

Average price

$83

Average price

Cheapest

7h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 32m

Average total duration

8h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

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 $83 (€66).

This is compared to other travel options from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA:

A train is $0.23 (€0.18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $83 (€66).

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 2m.

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.

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, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Santa Maria Area Transit5:00 PM Santa Maria, CA
20h22
1:22 PM San Diego, CA3 transfers
Thursday, May 7
Santa Maria Area Transit6:15 AM Santa Maria, CA
9h27
3:42 PM San Diego, CA3 transfers
Santa Maria Area Transit8:15 AM Santa Maria, CA
9h57
6:12 PM San Diego, CA3 transfers
Santa Maria Area Transit10:15 AM Santa Maria, CA
12h00
10:15 PM San Diego, CA3 transfers
Santa Maria Area Transit1:15 PM Santa Maria, CA
18h17
7:32 AM San Diego, CA3 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

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 $83 (€66) but you can travel from only $65 (€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 55h 34m.

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 $65 (€52)
Distance
243 miles (392 km)
Average bus duration
6h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$83 (€66)
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
55h 34m
First bus
4:01 AM
Last bus
9:25 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Fri
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 $65 (€52)

Bus providers: Clean Air Express from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA with Clean Air Express for as low as $65 (€52). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

Clean Air Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
55h 34m
Cheapest Price
$83 (€66)
Clean Air Express frequency
1 a day

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $83 (€66) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is $83 (€66) ; 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 55h 34m 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 Clean Air Express. 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 Clean Air Express 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.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Santa Maria, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 55h 34m 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, the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
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

Santa Maria
San Diego
The major bus station for departures in Santa Maria is Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street for your trip from Santa Maria to San Diego.
Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street
information

Most popular bus connections from Santa Maria, CA

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to San Diego, CASanta Maria, CA to San Diego, CA bus

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone