Seattle, WA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $50: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Seattle to Santa Barbara: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$50 by trainBest price
1492 kmDistance
5h 15m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Seattle to Santa Barbara with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
Seattle - Santa Barbara operators
Explore transport companies operating between Seattle and Santa Barbara, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
alaskaair.com
Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
Average Duration
2h 32mEstimated price
$1536-3980Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
2h 46mEstimated price
$3981-1535Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Burbank (BUR)
Average Duration
2h 31mEstimated price
$3982-3983Plane from Seattle (SEA) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)
Average Duration
2h 26mEstimated price
$3984-3980Website
united.com
Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
Average Duration
5h 15mEstimated price
$3986-39810Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
2h 42mEstimated price
$3987-3988Plane from Seattle (SEA) to San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP)
Average Duration
5h 29mEstimated price
$1536-3980Website
southwest.com
Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
Average Duration
4h 15mEstimated price
$3989-500Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Seattle to Santa Barbara
Average Duration
32h 22mEstimated price
$50-360Train from Burbank Amtrak to Santa Barbara
Average Duration
2h 16mEstimated price
$503-3982Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
flixbus.com
Bus from Seattle Bus Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop
Average Duration
26h 55mEstimated price
$1533-1534Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Oakland
Average Duration
1h 55mEstimated price
$1181-11800Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Oakland
Average Duration
1h 55mEstimated price
$1181-11800Seattle to Santa Barbara: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Seattle and Santa Barbara offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from the lush Pacific Northwest city of Seattle to the sunny shores of Santa Barbara. Spanning a distance of 1131 miles, this journey promises breathtaking landscapes and diverse scenery along the way.
💸 Indulge in the freedom of the open road while keeping your budget in check with car travel prices ranging from $200 to $300 for the Seattle to Santa Barbara route. Take advantage of the flexibility and convenience that a road trip offers to explore hidden gems and iconic landmarks at your own pace.
⏱️ Settle in for an adventure-filled drive of approximately 19 hours and 13 minutes as you make your way from Seattle to Santa Barbara. From coastlines to mountains, vineyards to urban hubs, this road trip promises a blend of experiences that will create lasting memories for years to come.
Average price
$200 - $300
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Seattle to Santa Barbara by train, with a direct service operated by Amtrak that departs once daily and takes approximately 32 hours and 22 minutes to reach your destination. Relax and enjoy the picturesque views as the train makes its way from Washington to California.
💰 With ticket prices ranging from $50 to $360 for a train journey between Seattle and Santa Barbara, you can choose the fare that best suits your budget and travel preferences. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly option or a more luxurious experience, the train ride offers a convenient and memorable way to travel between these two iconic West Coast destinations.
Departure Point
Seattle station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip on Amtrak's Coast Starlight include a dining car where you can enjoy freshly prepared meals, including vegetarian options. They also offer a cafe car with snacks and beverages, including local wine selections. Keep in mind that meal service can get busy, so try to dine during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
• The Coast Starlight offers several seating options, including Business Class, Economy, and First Class. Business Class provides extra legroom, complimentary snacks and beverages, and access to the Business Class lounge if available. First Class offers more privacy and luxurious amenities, along with two complimentary meals. Economy Class is more affordable but still comfortable for the duration of your journey.
• The main operators for the route from Seattle to Santa Barbara include Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Sound Transit for connecting services (soundtransit.org). Be sure to check the train schedules on the Amtrak site, as there could be changes. You might want to also check local transport options via the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (sbmtd.gov).
🛫 The quickest flight from Seattle Airport to Santa Barbara Airport is a direct flight lasting 2 hours and 32 minutes. You'll have various options with airlines like Alaska Airlines, Inc., United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
🏖️ The flight duration from Seattle to Santa Barbara is approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. Prepare for a comfortable journey as you make your way from the Pacific Northwest to the sunny shores of Southern California.
💸 Prices for flights between Santa Barbara and Seattle can range from $153 to $398, offering flexibility for different travel budgets. Plan your trip and enjoy the convenience of flying to your destination swiftly.
Departure Point
Seattle Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport
🚏 The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA, with stops at Sacramento and Oakland along the way. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 26 hours and 55 minutes.
💰 Prices for the bus tickets between Santa Barbara and Seattle can range from $100 to $327. Despite the long journey, taking the bus can be a cost-effective way to travel between these two cities.
Departure Point
Seattle Bus Station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Seattle to Santa Barbara.
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The distance between Seattle and Santa Barbara is approximately 1491.9 km by air and 1821.0 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 5 hours and 19 minutes to fly from Seattle to Santa Barbara, 19 hours and 13 minutes to drive, and 29 hours and 35 minutes to travel by bus. However, the fastest option is taking a flight and then a bus, which takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes in total travel time.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Seattle to Santa Barbara is by train, with prices ranging from $50-$360. Although it takes significantly longer, the train journey lasts approximately 32 hours and 22 minutes. However, for a more time-efficient option, flying is the best choice, taking only 5 hours and 19 minutes and costing between $140-$360.
The prices for trains between Seattle and Santa Barbara range from $50 to $360. Similarly, the prices for buses between Santa Barbara and Seattle vary from $123 to $308.
To travel from Seattle to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving the distance of 1820.2 km. The drive typically takes about 19 hours and 13 minutes. Keep in mind that the cost of renting a car can range from $200 to $300, depending on the type of vehicle and any additional fees.
If you prefer traveling without a car, the best option to get from Seattle to Santa Barbara is by bus. The journey takes about 29 hours and 35 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $120 to $310. Another option is to fly, which only takes 5 hours and 19 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $140 to $360. Alternatively, you can also take a train, which will take approximately 32 hours and 22 minutes and costs between $50 and $360.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Seattle and Santa Barbara operated by Amtrak. The journey takes approximately 32 hours and 22 minutes and departs once daily. Alternatively, there is no direct bus route between the two cities, but it is possible to travel by bus with transfers, taking around 29 hours and 35 minutes.
The flight from Seattle to Santa Barbara typically takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and flight delays. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $143 to $358, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats.
There are numerous options for accommodation in Santa Barbara, with over 148 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at around $57 per night, providing a range of affordable options for travelers.