Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA bus

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$0
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$27
Fastest journey on Nov 04
9 h 27 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
14 h 1 m
Buses on Nov 04
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
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    3 transfers
  • Santa Maria Area Transit
    3 transfers

Journey information

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

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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 $63

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance243 miles (392 km)
  • First bus4:01 AM
  • Last bus9:25 PM
  • Cheapest MonthNov
  • Cheapest DayFri
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Best time to book3 days

Explore this journey

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 $63

Frequently asked questions about your Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.

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.

Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest 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
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
Operator
Santa Maria Area Transit
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
12h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$133
Operator
Santa Maria Area Transit
Departure Time
01:15PM
Arrival Time
07:32AM
Duration
18h17
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$0
Operator
Santa Maria Area Transit
Departure Time
05:00PM
Arrival Time
10:05AM
Duration
17h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$0

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, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Santa Maria Area Transit1:15 PM Santa Maria, CA
18h17
7:32 AM San Diego, CA3 transfers
Santa Maria Area Transit5:00 PM Santa Maria, CA
20h22
1:22 PM San Diego, CA3 transfers
Wednesday, November 4
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

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • 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.

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.

Plan your visit to San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 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.

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
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.
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.

Most popular bus connections from Santa Maria, CA

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