- Recommended
San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum
Railroad museum at the Santa Fe Depot with local rail history, model displays, and preserved equipment in a historic station.
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $69 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 7h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $69, while a train costs an average of $69.
Distance: 188 miles (303 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$69 Average price Cheapest | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
7h 3m Average total duration Fastest 6h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $124 |
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.
Take a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA and enjoy the approximately 188 miles (303 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 05:51, the last at 15:25.
Distance 188 miles (303 km) |
First bus 5:51 AM |
Last bus 3:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of San Bernardino, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Bernardino, CA trip today.
Railroad museum at the Santa Fe Depot with local rail history, model displays, and preserved equipment in a historic station.
Regional museum featuring Native culture, local history, and rotating exhibits that explain the Inland Empire’s past and landscapes.
University art museum showing contemporary exhibitions, student work, and public programs on the Cal State San Bernardino campus.
Large urban park with a lake, fishing, picnic areas, trails, and mountain views; a favorite for relaxed outdoor time.
Popular mountain overlook reached by road, known for broad views over the city, sunsets, and quick scenic stops.
Regional trail and recreation area with paths, green space, and access to the Santa Ana River corridor for walking and biking.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, 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 Bernardino, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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