Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Costa Mesa, CA, USA from $15: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$15 by busBest price

217 kmDistance

2h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa 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.

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Santa Barbara - Costa Mesa operators

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

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Santa Barbara to Santa Ana

Average Duration

4h 10m

Estimated price

$5-410

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 55m

Estimated price

$15-51

Bus from Harbor Transitway / 37th St / USC to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration

1h 46m

Estimated price

$15-51

Contact phone

+1 714-560-6282

Website

https://www.octa.net

Bus from Fullerton Trans Ctr Dock 1 to Harbor-19Th

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$13-20

Contact phone

+1-323-466-3876

Website

https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Harbor Transitway / 37th St / USC to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration

1h 46m

Estimated price

$1-3

Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa 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.

🚗 Discover the scenic beauty of Southern California as you embark on a 135-mile journey from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa. Enjoy the coastal views and lush landscapes along the route. 💸 The cost of traveling by car from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa ranges from $24 to $40, offering budget-friendly options for a road trip adventure. 🌴 Arrive in Costa Mesa after approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes of driving, ready to explore the vibrant arts scene, shopping districts, and delicious dining options this bustling city has to offer.

Average price

$24 - $40

🚂 Hop aboard a scenic train journey from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa, spanning a duration of 4 hours and 21 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views rolling by outside your window. 💰 Tickets for the train ride between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa come at a range of prices, starting from $41 and going up to $132 depending on the class and amenities you choose. Select the option that suits your preferences and budget best.

🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa, you can still make the journey with services departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop and arriving at Harbor-19th. The trip, including transfers, typically takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes. 🌴 The Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa bus services are operated by Flixbus USA, departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop and arriving at Disneyland Employee's Entrance station. The buses make stops at Harbor Transitway / 37th St / USC and Harbor-East Shuttle Area along the way. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Costa Mesa and Santa Barbara can range from $15 to $51, offering an affordable option for travelers looking to make the journey by bus. Plan ahead and enjoy the convenience of bus travel between these two California destinations.

Departure Point

Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Arrival Point

Disneyland Employee's Entrance station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa.

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa is 186.7 km. If you choose to travel by train, it takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes. Taking a flight followed by a bus ride on line 460 will take around 5 hours and 44 minutes. If you prefer driving, it will take approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes, while the bus option takes about 5 hours and 36 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa is by bus and then taking line 43 bus, which costs between $12 and $50 and takes approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes. If time is a priority, the quickest option is to drive, which takes about 2 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $24 and $40.

The prices for traveling from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa vary depending on the mode of transportation. The train fare ranges from $41 to $132, while the bus fare ranges from $12 to $48.

The most convenient and direct way to travel from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa without using public transportation is by car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 217.3 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete the journey. You can expect to spend about $24 to $40 on gas and toll fees, depending on the vehicle you use and other factors.

The most convenient way to travel from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa without a car is by taking the train. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes and ticket prices range from $40 to $140.

Yes, there is a link between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa. However, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities. The recommended option is to take a bus from Santa Barbara to Fullerton Trans Ctr Dock 1 and then transfer to Line 19 to reach Costa Mesa. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes, including transfers.

The flight between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa typically takes around 57 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book. On average, however, you can expect to pay around $150 to $300 for a one-way ticket.

There are several hotels available near Costa Mesa with a wide range of options to fit different budgets and preferences. Prices start at $69 per night, offering affordable accommodations. With over 718 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay to explore the area and enjoy all that Costa Mesa has to offer.