San Luis Obispo, CA, known for its charming downtown and scenic landscapes, offers a delightful starting point for any journey. Bakersfield, CA, on the other hand, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and bustling energy.
Traveling between these two cities can be an exciting adventure, whether for business, leisure, or visiting family and friends.
Let's explore the various transportation options available for this trip.
5 Ways to go from San Luis Obispo, CA to Bakersfield, CA
1. Shuttle Service
Shuttle Service offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to Bakersfield, CA. This shared transportation option is ideal for those looking for a cost-effective and reliable travel solution without the hassle of driving.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and the number of stops can affect the duration. Some services offer express options that may reduce travel time.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $30 to $50 per person. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Discounts may be available for early bookings or group travel.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Shuttle Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
- Pros: Shuttle Service is an economical choice, offering door-to-door service and eliminating the need for parking. Itβs also environmentally friendly, as it reduces the number of vehicles on the road.
Shuttle Service is best for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer not to drive. For a smooth trip, consider booking in advance and checking the schedule for the most convenient times.
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Luxury Car Service offers a premium, private travel experience, providing comfort and convenience for those looking to travel in style. This service typically includes high-end vehicles, professional chauffeurs, and personalized amenities, making it a top choice for discerning travelers.
- Travel time: The journey from San Luis Obispo to Bakersfield takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for a direct route without stops ensures the fastest travel time.
- Cost: Prices for Luxury Car Service can range from $200 to $400, depending on factors like vehicle type, peak hours, and advance booking. Booking during off-peak times or in advance can help secure better rates.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Luxury Car Service through Mozio. We recommend booking at least 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible.
- Pros: Luxury Car Service offers unparalleled comfort, privacy, and convenience. With professional chauffeurs, you can relax or work during the trip. The service is customizable, allowing for tailored experiences to meet your specific needs.
Luxury Car Service is ideal for business travelers, special occasions, or anyone seeking a premium travel experience. For the best experience, book in advance and enjoy a seamless journey.
3. Private Driver
Private Driver is a personalized transportation service offering a private, comfortable, and convenient way to travel. It provides a door-to-door service, ensuring a hassle-free journey. This option is typically more luxurious and private compared to shared or budget-friendly alternatives.
- Travel time: The journey from San Luis Obispo to Bakersfield by Private Driver typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions and route choices can affect the duration. Opting for a direct route can save time.
- Cost: The cost for a Private Driver service ranges from $150 to $300. Pricing can vary based on factors like peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance can often secure better rates.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Private Driver services through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
- Pros: Choosing a Private Driver offers several benefits, including personalized service, comfort, and flexibility. You can travel on your own schedule, enjoy a direct route, and have the convenience of door-to-door service without the hassle of public transportation.
Private Driver is ideal for travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and convenience. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and choosing a vehicle that suits your needs.
4. Public Transportation
Public transportation refers to shared travel services available to the general public, typically including buses, trains, and shuttles. It is a budget-friendly option that allows multiple passengers to travel together, reducing individual costs and environmental impact.
- Travel time: The journey from San Luis Obispo to Bakersfield by public transportation typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. Factors such as traffic, layovers, and schedule frequency can affect the duration. Opting for express services, if available, can reduce travel time.
- Cost: The cost for this trip ranges from $20 to $40, depending on the service provider, time of booking, and travel class. Booking in advance or traveling during off-peak hours can help secure lower fares. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and frequent travelers.
- Booking process: Travelers can book tickets online, through mobile apps, by phone, or in person at ticket counters. It is advisable to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and better pricing.
- Pros and cons: Public transportation is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. It eliminates the stress of driving and parking. However, it may involve longer travel times and less flexibility compared to driving a personal vehicle. Delays and schedule changes can also be a drawback.
Public transportation is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who prefer a hassle-free journey. For a smoother experience, check schedules and book tickets in advance.
5. Uber/Rideshare
Uber and other rideshare services offer a convenient way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Bakersfield. These services provide private, shared, and luxury ride options, catering to various budgets and preferences. Users can book rides through an app, making it a flexible and accessible choice for many travelers.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Factors such as traffic conditions, time of day, and route taken can affect the duration. Opting for a direct route without layovers can save time.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $150 to $250, depending on the service tier, time of booking, and demand. Peak hours and last-minute bookings can increase costs, while advance reservations and shared rides may offer savings.
- Booking process: Travelers can book rides through the Uber app or other rideshare apps. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability and potentially lower rates.
- Pros and cons: The main benefits include door-to-door service, flexibility, and comfort. However, the cost can be higher compared to other transportation options, and availability may be limited during peak times or in less populated areas.
Uber/Rideshare is ideal for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. For the best experience, book in advance and consider shared rides for cost savings.
Distance between San Luis Obispo, CA and Bakersfield, CA
The distance between San Luis Obispo, CA, and Bakersfield, CA, is approximately 130 miles (209 kilometers). Notable landmarks along the route include the scenic Carrizo Plain National Monument and the historic town of Paso Robles.

Travel time between San Luis Obispo, CA and Bakersfield, CA
- Shuttle Service: Typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Travel time can vary based on the number of stops and traffic conditions along the route.
- Luxury Car Service: Estimated travel time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This option offers a more direct route, but traffic can still impact the duration.
- Private Driver: Usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. The driver can choose the fastest route, but traffic congestion may cause delays.
- Public Transportation: Can take 4 to 6 hours, including transfers and waiting times. Delays and layovers are common, affecting overall travel time.
- Uber/Rideshare: Generally takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Travel time is subject to traffic conditions and availability of drivers.
Cost of transportation between San Luis Obispo, CA and Bakersfield, CA
- Shuttle Service: Costs range from $30 to $50 per person. Prices can vary based on the time of day and the specific shuttle company. Booking in advance can often secure lower rates.
- Luxury Car Service: Expect to pay between $200 and $400. Factors like vehicle type and additional amenities can influence the price. Consider traveling during off-peak hours to save money.
- Private Driver: The cost typically ranges from $150 to $300. Prices are generally fixed, but booking early can sometimes offer discounts. All drivers maintain a high standard of service.
- Public Transportation: This is the most economical option, costing around $15 to $25. Prices depend on the specific bus or train service. Using discount programs or traveling during non-peak times can reduce costs.
- Uber/Rideshare: Prices range from $100 to $200. Costs can fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and distance. Sharing rides with others can help lower the overall expense.
Why traveling with Mozio is best!
- Cancel for free within 24 hours, giving you the flexibility to change your plans without any hassle.
- Enjoy 24/7 customer support, a feature not commonly available with other services like Uber.
- Travel with confidence knowing Mozio partners only with licensed and carefully selected providers.
- Benefit from instantly guaranteed bookings, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.
- Rest easy with Mozio's policy of waiting for you if your flight is delayed, adding an extra layer of security.
Tips for traveling between San Luis Obispo, CA and Bakersfield, CA
- Choosing the best method: Consider your budget, time constraints, and comfort preferences. Shuttle services are economical, while luxury car services offer comfort. Public transportation is budget-friendly but slower.
- Time-saving strategies: Book your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel times. Services like Mozio can help streamline the booking process, ensuring you get the best option quickly.
- Cost-saving tips: Compare prices across different services. Public transportation and rideshares are generally cheaper. Look for discounts or promotions on shuttle services and rideshare apps.
- Packing advice: Pack light if using public transportation or rideshares to make your journey more comfortable. For luxury car services or private drivers, you can afford to bring more luggage.
- Best travel times: Avoid peak hours to save time and money. Early mornings or late evenings are usually less crowded and cheaper for most transportation methods.
- Local insights: San Luis Obispo and Bakersfield have unique traffic patterns. Check local traffic updates to avoid delays, especially if you're driving or using a rideshare service.
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Mozio simplifies ground transportation for travelers by offering a seamless booking process. Enter your travel details, compare various transportation options, book your ride, and receive instant confirmation. This streamlined approach ensures you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying your trip.
One of the standout benefits of using Mozio is its extensive reach, covering thousands of destinations worldwide. Whether you're heading to a bustling city or a remote getaway, Mozio provides reliable and convenient transportation options. This makes it an invaluable tool for travelers looking to explore new places without the hassle of navigating local transport systems.
For Travel Agent
For travel agents, Mozio offers a streamlined platform to manage ground transportation bookings effortlessly. Agents can register, create an account, and access a variety of transportation options, including eSIMs and airport parking. This centralized system allows agents to track rides and manage bookings from a single dashboard, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
One of the unique benefits for travel agents using Mozio is the ability to earn a 5% discount on all transportation rates while setting their own commission. With global coverage spanning millions of routes in 180 countries, including thousands of travel destinations, agents can provide their clients with reliable and convenient transportation options. Additionally, Mozio's 24/7 customer support and efficient handling of cancellations make it a dependable choice for travel professionals.