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Los Angeles, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $4: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Los Angeles, United States
to
Santa Barbara, United States

How to Get from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$4 by trainBest price
140.05 kmDistance
1h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles 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.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  20m
Estimated price
$10-50
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  42m
Estimated price
$4-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 140.05 km
Duration: 1h 41m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  41m
Estimated price
$17-26
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$70-90
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Traveling From Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

The journey from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara offers a stunning transition from the vibrant hustle of city life to the serene coastal charm of a beach town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s neighborhoods blend charm, culture, and coastal beauty.

Downtown
• Vibrant shops and restaurants line State Street.
• Cultural attractions like the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.
Funk Zone
• Known for its artsy vibe and trendy galleries.
• Great selection of wine tasting rooms and eateries.
East Beach
• Stunning beachfront and picturesque palm trees.
• Ideal for sunbathing and water sports.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Santa Barbara’s enchanting attractions.

Santa Barbara Zoo
Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Stearns Wharf
Early mornings offer a peaceful stroll and stunning ocean views.
Mission Santa Barbara
Weekdays are best to avoid tourist groups and explore quietly.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it a delightful destination any time of year. The delightful weather enhances outdoor activities, so visiting during the spring and fall can provide a perfect balance of pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Consider trying the fresh seafood at Brophy Bros, where local catch meets a relaxed harbor atmosphere, offering a stark contrast to the fast-paced dining scene in Los Angeles. The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and coastal flavors brings a unique touch to each dish, allowing you to savor the true essence of Santa Barbara.

Los Angeles - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$10-50
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
https://www.centralcoastshuttle.com

Bus from Los Angeles Airport, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$60-80
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$4-80

Los Angeles to Santa Barbara: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles 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 a picturesque road trip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 154.5 km in just 1 hour and 41 minutes. 💰 Indulge in a budget-friendly journey, as the prices to drive from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara range from $17 to $26, offering flexibility to suit different travel preferences.
Average price
$17 - $26
🎟️ The approximately 2 hour 42 minute trip is operated by Amtrak, with departures and arrivals at the Los Angeles and Santa Barbara stations. Ticket prices can range from $4 to $80, providing options for various budgets. 🏖️ Enjoy the picturesque ride covering a distance of 167.4 km as you travel through California on the Pacific Surfliner route.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your trip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, you can enjoy onboard dining services provided by Amtrak. Their Cafe Car offers a selection of snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and beverages. For a more substantial meal, try their daily special or pre-order meals if you're traveling in Business Class.
• The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers two seating classes for this route: Economy Class and Business Class. Economy Class provides comfortable seating with plenty of legroom, while Business Class features larger seats, complimentary soft drinks, and access to the Business Class lounge at Los Angeles Union Station.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak, which provides a direct service from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara. For schedules and ticketing, visit their website at amtrak.com Additionally, you may want to check out the local transport options at your destination by visiting Santa Barbara's public transit website at sbmtd.gov
🚌 Traveling from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara by bus is a convenient option with direct services departing from Los Angeles Union Station and arriving at Santa Barbara Bus Stop. The journey typically takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. 🗺️ The distance between the two cities is around 162.5 km, and buses operated by Flixbus USA make the trip three times a day, offering travelers flexibility in their schedule. 💰 Bus fares between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara range from $10 to $50, providing an affordable and scenic way to travel along the California Coastline. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you head from the bustling city of LA to the charming town of Santa Barbara.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Union Station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara.

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The distance between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara is approximately 140 km. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. Driving is the fastest option, taking approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes. Taking the train is the next fastest, with a travel time of 2 hours and 42 minutes. If you prefer taking the bus, the travel time is around 2 hours and 45 minutes, or 4 hours and 8 minutes if you first go to Los Angeles Airport.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes to reach Santa Barbara by car, and the cost ranges between $17 and $26 for fuel.
The prices for traveling from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, the prices can range from $4 to $80. Alternatively, taking a bus between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles can cost anywhere from $11 to $50.
The most convenient and flexible way to travel from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara without using public transportation is by car. The driving distance is approximately 154 km, and it takes about 1 hour and 41 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Los Angeles. The cost of a one-way trip by car varies between $17 and $26, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and tolls.
The best way to travel from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes and costs between $4 and $80.
Yes, there is a direct link between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. You can travel between the two cities by train or bus. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes, while the bus journey takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Barbara with over 148 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at $57 per night, making it accessible for various budget levels.