Sacramento, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $19: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Sacramento to Santa Barbara: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$19 by trainBest price
646 kmDistance
3h 40m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento 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.
Sacramento - Santa Barbara operators
Explore transport companies operating between Sacramento and Santa Barbara, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Santa Barbara (SBA)
Average Duration
1h 15mEstimated price
$5581-5582Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
1h 29mEstimated price
$5583-5584Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Burbank (BUR)
Average Duration
1h 14mEstimated price
$5585-5586Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Sacramento to Santa Barbara
Average Duration
11h 24mEstimated price
$19-170Train from Sacramento to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak
Average Duration
2hEstimated price
$1702-1703Train from Burbank Amtrak to Santa Barbara
Average Duration
2h 16mEstimated price
$191-192Train from Sacramento to Richmond
Average Duration
1h 27mEstimated price
$191-192Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
flixbus.com
Bus from Sacramento to San Francisco
Average Duration
2h 15mEstimated price
$1223-196Bus from San Francisco to Santa Barbara Bus Stop
Average Duration
6h 40mEstimated price
$199-12230Bus from Sacramento to Santa Barbara Bus Stop
Average Duration
9h 55mEstimated price
$2123-2124Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818Website
centralcoastshuttle.com
Bus from Los Angeles Airport, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Average Duration
2h 25mEstimated price
$1221-1703Sacramento to Santa Barbara: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Sacramento 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 scenic road trip from Sacramento to Santa Barbara covering 401 miles of diverse California landscapes. Enjoy the journey as you pass through charming towns and picturesque vineyards along the route.
💰 Plan your budget accordingly for the trip, with car travel costs ranging from $70 to $110 between Sacramento and Santa Barbara. Consider fuel prices, meals, and any potential pit stops to make the most of your travel experience.
🏖️ Arrive in Santa Barbara after approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes of driving, ready to explore the sandy beaches, Spanish architecture, and vibrant culture that make this coastal city a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and coastal charm.
Average price
$70 - $110
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Sacramento to Santa Barbara by train, with services operating daily. The relaxing 11-hour, 24-minute trip offers a comfortable way to travel between the two beautiful California cities.
🏞️ Enjoy the picturesque views along the 450-mile route as you glide towards Santa Barbara. The Coast Starlight train from Sacramento Valley Station to Santa Barbara Amtrak station promises a delightful and leisurely travel experience.
💰 Ticket prices for the Sacramento to Santa Barbara train ride range from $19 to $170, providing an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore the stunning coastal city of Santa Barbara. Visit the Amtrak website for more information on schedules and bookings: https://www.amtrak.com/.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check Amtrak’s onboard services for the Pacific Surfliner route, as they offer a café car with a variety of snacks and beverages for purchase. You can find coffee, soft drinks, and light meals like sandwiches and salads, which can be enjoyable during your journey from Sacramento to Santa Barbara.
• For your trip, consider booking a seat in Business Class if you want more comfort; it offers larger, more spacious seats and complimentary beverages. Economy Class is more economical but provides standard seating. The First Class option is not available on this route, but Business Class offers many of the premium amenities that you would expect.
• The main operator for this route is Amtrak. You can book your trip through their official website at ">">amtrak.com In addition, consider checking options from other operators like Metrolink for extended regional travel. For local transport, use the Santa Barbara Transit website ">">sbmtd.gov for schedules and connections.
• Upon arrival at Santa Barbara station, you will find restrooms available, but showers are not provided. You can leave your luggage at the Amtrak baggage service counter if you’d like to explore the city without carrying your bags. It's located in the main terminal, and the attendants are available to assist you.
• The fastest way to get from Santa Barbara station to the city center is to take the MTD bus Line 2, which runs frequently and offers direct service to different parts of downtown Santa Barbara. Look for the bus stop right outside the train station; just hop on the bus and enjoy a quick ride into the heart of the city.
🛫 Flying from Sacramento to Santa Barbara is a convenient option, with a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes. Southwest Airlines offers flights between the two cities.
🌴 Upon arrival in Santa Barbara, travelers can expect a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes from Sacramento. This picturesque coastal city offers a relaxing vibe and beautiful scenery.
💸 The cost of a flight ticket between Sacramento and Santa Barbara can vary, typically ranging from $212 to $558. Booking in advance and comparing prices can help secure the best deal for your trip.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport
🚌 Embark on an adventure from Sacramento to Santa Barbara by bus, with a travel time of approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes. Although there isn't a direct route, you'll journey through San Francisco before reaching your final destination at the Santa Barbara Bus Stop.
🌴 Discover the beauty of the California coast as you make your way from Sacramento to Santa Barbara. Enjoy the scenic views along the 410-mile route, with a transfer in San Francisco adding an extra layer of excitement to your journey.
🎫 Prices for the Sacramento to Santa Barbara bus ride range from $39 to $145, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking a convenient and affordable way to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Southern California.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Sacramento to Santa Barbara.
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The distance between Sacramento and Santa Barbara is approximately 492 km by air and 646 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 11 hours and 24 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Sacramento. By flying to Los Angeles and then taking a bus, the travel time is about 6 hours and 5 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes to travel from Sacramento to Santa Barbara, and by bus, it takes around 9 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option to travel from Sacramento to Santa Barbara is by taking the train, with prices ranging from $19 to $170. Although it is a slower option, taking approximately 11 hours and 24 minutes, it is significantly cheaper compared to other modes of transportation. However, for those looking for a faster option, flying is the most time-efficient way to reach Santa Barbara, with a travel time of 3 hours and 45 minutes. Although more expensive, prices range from $220 to $550.
The prices for traveling from Sacramento to Santa Barbara by train range from $19 to $170. The prices for traveling by bus vary from $39 to $145.
To get from Sacramento to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 645 km. The drive usually takes around 6 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the trip can range from $70 to $110, considering the price of gasoline and any tolls along the way.
To travel from Sacramento to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus or fly. The bus takes approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $35 and $150. Alternatively, flying is faster, taking about 3 hours and 45 minutes, but the cost ranges from $220 to $550. The train is also an option, although it takes longer at 11 hours and 24 minutes and costs between $19 and $170.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Sacramento and Santa Barbara. The Amtrak train service operates once daily and takes approximately 11 hours and 24 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities, but you can take a bus with transfers via San Francisco, which takes approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes.
The flight between Sacramento and Santa Barbara typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $222 to $548.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. With 148+ hotels available, you'll have a wide range of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $57 per night, making it possible to find a budget-friendly stay.