San Diego to Santa Maria: Road Trip Guide & Distance

243.3 miles 391.6 km · straight line
281.3 miles actual route 452.7 km · driving distance
5h 37min estimated drive time
$27 - $33 estimated fuel cost
~59min flight time
310° NW bearing direction

How far is San Diego from Santa Maria?

The distance from San Diego to Santa Maria is 243.3 miles (391.6 km) as the crow flies. Santa Maria is located NW of San Diego. By car, the driving distance is approximately 281.3 miles, taking about 5h 37min. A direct flight would take roughly 59min. Both are located in United States.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for San Diego and Santa Maria. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from San Diego to Santa Maria

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 37min $27 - $33 Flexible stops
Fly ~59min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 44min $23–$42* Budget
Train ~5h 20min $34–$98* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between San Diego & Santa Maria

Quick Facts

San Diego
32.72°N, 117.16°W
America/Los_Angeles
20m elevation
Santa Maria
34.95°N, 120.44°W
America/Los_Angeles
67m elevation
Explore more routes from Santa Maria

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 81 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 20 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 102.3 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM