- Must visit
Kern County Museum
Well-curated local history museum with exhibits on oil, agriculture, and community life in Kern County.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 16
- Cheapest price on Nov 16
- $47
- Average ticket price on Nov 16
- $47
- Fastest journey on Nov 16
- 3 h 50 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 16
- 3 h 55 m
- Buses on Nov 16
- 2
- Distance
- 158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 16, we found 2 buses from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 16 the direct buses cover the 158 km distance in an average of 3 h 55 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 50 m .
On Mon, Nov 16 the slowest buses will take 4 h 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.
8:05 AM 3h50 Santa Monica, CA 11:55 AM Bakersfield, CA $47 1 One-way 0 transfers11:55 AM 4h00 Santa Monica, CA 3:55 PM Bakersfield, CA $47 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:05 AM 3h50 Santa Monica, CA 11:55 AM Bakersfield, CA $47 1 One-way 0 transfers11:55 AM 4h00 Santa Monica, CA 3:55 PM Bakersfield, CA $47 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $53 if you book in advance.
There are 9 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 98 miles (158 km) distance in 1h 20m.
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 98 miles (158 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 9 |
Fastest bus 1h 20m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA can start from as little as $53 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA is $59 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there are 9 direct buses a day from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA with Tufesa Internacional. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:05AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $47 |
Live departures
Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses for tomorrow, Monday, November 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:05 AM Santa Monica, CA | 3h50 | 11:55 AM Bakersfield, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:55 AM Santa Monica, CA | 4h00 | 3:55 PM Bakersfield, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Bus providers: Tufesa Internacional from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA with Tufesa Internacional for as low as $53. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Tufesa Internacional
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Tufesa Internacional Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Tufesa Internacional Price
$53
Tufesa Internacional frequency
9 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Monica, CA and Bakersfield, CA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA, you can count on Tufesa Internacional for the best way to get you to Bakersfield, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Monica, CA and Bakersfield, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
No, the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Complete guide to Bakersfield, CA
Things to do in Bakersfield, CA
Discover the best of Bakersfield, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Buck Owens' Crystal Palace Museum
Museum on the Bakersfield Sound and country music history, with costumes, instruments, and artist memorabilia.
- Recommended
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
Hands-on museum for children with interactive science, art, and role-play exhibits suited to families.
- Recommended
18th Street
Lively downtown street with historic buildings, murals, theaters, and an easy base for walking Bakersfield's core.
- Recommended
Mill Creek Park
Large urban park with lakes, walking paths, art museum access, and open space for a relaxed local outing.
- Recommended
Kern River Parkway Trail
Linear park and trail through downtown, useful for walking and biking between museums, murals, and civic spaces.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Tri-tip barbecue is a Central California staple: beef bottom sirloin seasoned and grilled over red oak, often sliced for sandwiches or plates.
- Gluten-free
Basque Oxtail Stew
Basque oxtail stew reflects Bakersfield's Basque boardinghouse tradition, with slow-braised oxtail in a rich savory sauce served family-style.
- Gluten-free
Pickled Tongue
Pickled tongue is a classic Basque appetizer in Bakersfield, cured and sliced thin with vinegar and spices, common at traditional Basque restaurants.
Wool Growers Restaurant
Historic Basque restaurant known for family-style meals, steaks, tongue, beans, and classic boardinghouse atmosphere.
Horse in the Alley
Upscale steakhouse for dry-aged beef, seafood, and cocktails, suited for a polished dinner in central Bakersfield.
Pyrenees Cafe
Long-running Basque dining room serving oxtail, fried chicken, soups, and hearty set meals in a traditional setting.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. travel. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Los Angeles, but car use and limited transit can raise overall visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts.
Plan your visit to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving fake ticket sales or unauthorized transportation services can occur, so purchasing tickets only through official vendors is advised. It’s also important to stay aware of surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas for 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.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take a bus between Santa Monica, CA and Bakersfield, 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.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Monica, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Monica, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bakersfield, CA and Santa Monica, CA
Most popular bus connections to Bakersfield, CA
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