San Francisco to San Luis Obispo Road Trip
Whether you’ve been to San Luis Obispo dozens of times or you’re considering your first visit, this insider’s guide will help you plan your weekend trip from San Francisco. How far is San Francisco to San Luis Obispo you ask? Well, we have your trip covered with various routes to get to San Luis Obispo and how to enjoy every moment once you arrive.
How to get from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo
San Francisco to San Luis Obispo By Plane
For a quick and easy-going travel experience, the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP Airport) offers non-stop flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to San Luis Obispo daily. United Express recently began to offer a third-round trip flight to San Francisco. You can easily coordinate ground transportation or rent a vehicle from a rental car company on-site for a convenient ride to your hotel or destination of choice.
San Francisco to San Luis Obispo By Bus
If you are looking for an affordable and convenient mode of transportation, Greyhound offers a daily bus to San Luis Obispo from San Francisco. Additionally, Amtrak California has three bus routes, starting in Oakland and San Jose. Grab a ticket from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo and you will be enjoying the city in a little over 5 hours.
San Francisco to San Luis Obispo By Car
Partaking in a classic California road trip to the scenic Central Coast will be a trip you will never forget. Whether you are in a hurry to San Luis Obispo or taking your time to stop along the way, driving from the Bay Area to San Luis Obispo is a hassle-free experience along Highway 101.
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers travelers an incredibly scenic route as they tour the Central Coast from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo.
Looking for a more sustainable road trip? The roads from SF to SLO offer a number of EV charging stations along the way.
San Francisco to San Luis Obispo By Train
The Amtrak Station in San Luis Obispo is served daily by the Coast Starlight train, traveling between Seattle and Los Angeles, making it easy to travel by train into San Luis Obispo. Enjoy a breathtaking journey with views of the majestic Pacific Ocean and rolling hillsides aboard the Coast Starlight train.
Where to Stop on Your Road Trip from SF to SLO
With countless things to do, you will never find yourself bored while visiting San Luis Obispo. Famous for its serene coastlines, exquisite wineries, and remarkable landmarks such as Hearst Castle and Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, SLO offers visitors a plethora of outdoor activities and leisurely outings in its rural countryside setting. Find activities to plan for the morning, mid-day and night for an authentic, fun-filled SLO experience.
Mornings in San Luis Obispo
- Cafes: A morning stroll to a local coffee shop or café that radiates San Luis Obispo charm is a picture-perfect way to start your morning.
- Spas & Salons: Start your day feeling refreshed and recharged at a day spa, hotel spa, or salon. From luxurious spa services such as facials and massages to a soak in the natural hot springs, San Luis Obispo is the perfect getaway for a relaxing spa retreat.
- Beaches: Especially when coming from the Bay Area, a beach excursion is a must while visiting our laid-back town. Catch a wave at a local surf spot or enjoy a warm California day at one of the top beaches along the Central Coast.
- Hiking: One of the best ways to discover San Luis Obispo’s natural beauty is by foot. Check out the many hiking trails that offer spectacular views from misty mountains to the rugged coastline.
Mid-day in San Luis Obispo
- Shopping: If your idea of relaxation is some retail therapy, wander down to Higuera Street in Downtown SLO for a day of shopping at trendy boutiques, vintage shops, unique stores, and more.
- Restaurants: Nestled in the heart of the Central Coast, SLO is a foodie hub to be explored. Enjoy a memorable dining experience with a captivating atmosphere, fantastic service, and exceptional food at an enticing restaurant or café in San Luis Obispo.
- Avila Valley Barn: Avila Valley Barn offers an authentic farm experience for adults and children alike. Pick your own fruit and vegetables, browse an open-air market of locally-grown produce and unique country gifts, visit the petting zoo, or treat yourself to something sweet at the Sweet Shoppe.
- Museums: The Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa located in downtown is the root of San Luis Obispo’s history and a must-see for history buffs. Experience the deep historic character of SLO through local museums and learn about the area’s rich, diverse past.
Nighttime in San Luis Obispo
- SLO Happy Hours: For a fun-filled afternoon or evening, choose from the plethora of restaurants and bars in San Luis Obispo with drink specials, happy hour food deals, and live music.
- Nightlife: What sounds better than watching the sunset while sipping a cocktail at a rooftop restaurant and bar? Luckily many of SLO’s local bars and taprooms located down Higuera and its side streets are offering outdoor options where you can grab a drink and a late-night snack after a day full of exploring the city.
- Beer Tasting: Are you a beer enthusiast? If so, be sure to pencil in a beer tasting and visit San Luis Obispo’s wide variety of craft breweries.
- Wine Tasting: The SLO Coast Wine region and Edna Valley are home to award-winning wines, sprawling vineyards, and stunning views. Not only that, but this region boasts California’s longest growing season giving the wine from this region a unique and complex flavor. While you are here, be sure to explore the many family-owned tasting rooms which make for an afternoon well-spent exploring San Luis Obispo’s wine country.
Map of the California Coast
If you are planning a classic California road trip, below is a map of the route from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo.