- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
Cheapest, Fastest
+
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant)
Santa Clara Station
$1131•One-way
Cheapest, 2nd Fastest
+
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant)
Santa Clara Station
$1131•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CAShowing times and prices for Jul 18
Cheapest price
$113
Average price
$113
Fastest journey
5h 32m
Average duration
6h 2m
Buses per day
2
Distance
299 km
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Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA bus
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $80. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 6h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $80, and a train costs an average of $119.
Distance: 183 miles (296 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$82 Average price Cheapest | $122 Average price | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 24m Average total duration Fastest 6h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 34m Average total duration 12h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $82 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $40 (€33) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $122 (€100).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 6h 54m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a bus and train.
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 Jose, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 02:24PM | Duration 6h49 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 04:57PM | Duration 5h32 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 09:57PM | Duration 5h52 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 12:32AM | Duration 6h07 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 01:32AM | Duration 6h07 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Live departures
Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA buses for today, Saturday, July 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 4761 AMTRAK · 744 Capitol Corridor | 11:25 AM Santa Maria, CA | 5h32 | 4:57 PM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4761 AMTRAK · 746 Capitol Corridor | 11:25 AM Santa Maria, CA | 6h32 | 5:57 PM Santa Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA | 1 transfer | |
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 San Jose, 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 Jose, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:35, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 183 miles (296 km) distance in 5h 52m.
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 183 miles (296 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 (€65) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 5h 52m |
First bus 5:35 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Complete guide to San Jose
Things to do in San Jose
Discover the best of San Jose — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA can start from as little as $80 (€65) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA is $82 (€67) ; 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 Jose, CA is 5h 52m to travel the 183 miles (296 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 Jose, CA leaves at 5:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 11:35 PM.
A trip to San Jose, CA from Santa Maria, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 52m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a bus and train.
No, the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Jose, CA are:
- Winchester Mystery House, an architectural curiosity with a maze-like design and historical significance
- The Tech Interactive, an engaging science and technology center with hands-on exhibits
- San Jose Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum featuring works from the 20th and 21st centuries
- Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, a museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian artifacts and culture
- Municipal Rose Garden, a beautiful and serene garden featuring over 3,500 rose bushes.
The best things to do in San Jose, CA include:
- Explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, a tranquil space inspired by Japanese landscape design
- Visit the Children's Discovery Museum, offering interactive exhibits for families and children
- Enjoy a performance at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, hosting a variety of shows and events
- Discover the history of Silicon Valley at the Computer History Museum
- Take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park, offering trails and natural beauty.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither Santa Maria, CA nor San Jose, 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.
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 Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps ensure safety.
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 Jose, CA
Most Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA buses use the Santa Maria, Nicholson Avenue / Cypress Street to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Maria, CA and San Jose, 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 Jose
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
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) from San Jose city centre
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 7m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 17m · $4 · every ~7 min
Most popular bus connections from Santa Maria, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Maria, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Jose, CA and Santa Maria, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Jose, CA
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