- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $110
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $110
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 12 h 40 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 12 h 40 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 1
- Distance
- 303 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
Fast buses
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 buses from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 303 km distance in an average of 12 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 12 h 40 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 12 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
3:10 PM 12h40 Santa Maria, CA 3:50 AM San Bernardino, CA $110 1 One-way 0 transfers
3:10 PM 12h40 Santa Maria, CA 3:50 AM San Bernardino, CA $110 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA
USAUSA
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.
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 $68
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance188 miles (303 km)
- First bus5:51 AM
- Last bus3:25 PM
- Cheapest MonthOct
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
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 $68
Frequently asked questions about your Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, 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 Bernardino, CA.
The earliest bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA leaves at 5:51 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA leaves at 3:25 PM.
Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA Bus Timetables
| 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 $110 |
Operator Santa Maria Area Transit | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $121 |
Live departures
Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Maria, CA to San Bernardino, CA buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:00 PM Santa Maria, CA | 9h05 | 2:05 AM San Bernardino, CA | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to San Bernardino, CA
Things to do in San Bernardino, CA
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.
- Recommended
San Bernardino County Museum
Regional museum featuring Native culture, local history, and rotating exhibits that explain the Inland Empire’s past and landscapes.
- Recommended
Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art
University art museum showing contemporary exhibitions, student work, and public programs on the Cal State San Bernardino campus.
- Recommended
Glen Helen Regional Park
Large urban park with a lake, fishing, picnic areas, trails, and mountain views; a favorite for relaxed outdoor time.
- Recommended
Skyline Drive Overlook
Popular mountain overlook reached by road, known for broad views over the city, sunsets, and quick scenic stops.
- Recommended
Santa Ana River Trail
Regional trail and recreation area with paths, green space, and access to the Santa Ana River corridor for walking and biking.
Classic SoCal Hamburger
Southern California fast-food style burger with lettuce, tomato, onions and spread. San Bernardino is the birthplace of the original McDonald brothers hamburger stand.
California Burrito
Charbroiled burrito stuffed with carne asada, fries, cheese and salsa. It reflects Inland Empire and wider Southern California Mexican-American street food culture.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream and salsa. A popular late-night Southern California taqueria dish eaten across the Inland Empire.
Spirit of Texas BBQ
Popular casual spot for burgers, fries and sandwiches. A practical stop for classic American comfort food.
El Salvador Cafe
Long-running Salvadoran restaurant known for pupusas and other Central American comfort dishes in an informal setting.
Rosa Maria's
Casual local Mexican restaurant known for hearty burritos, tacos and combo plates in a relaxed setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for Southern California. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Los Angeles, but car travel and limited transit can raise visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-20% for great service. Round up or tip 10% for taxis. Small tips are common at cafes, but not required.
Plan your visit to San Bernardino, 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 Bernardino, 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 Bernardino, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and car break-ins, especially in public parking areas. Avoid poorly lit or isolated locations at night. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers or rideshare services, so always use official transportation options. Staying aware of surroundings and securing belongings helps ensure a safer visit.
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 Bernardino, CA
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and San Bernardino, 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
Most popular buses to and from San Bernardino, CA and Santa Maria, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Bernardino, CA
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