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Fresno, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $45: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Fresno, United States of America
to
Santa Barbara, United States of America

How to Get from Fresno 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.

$45 by carBest price
412 kmDistance
4h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Fresno 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
Greyhound, Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  48m
Estimated price
$156-448
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 412 km
Duration: 4h 20m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  33m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  55m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Self
Drive
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  28m
Estimated price
$256-543
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Traveling From Fresno to Santa Barbara

Traveling from Fresno to Santa Barbara offers a refreshing shift from the vibrant agricultural landscapes of the Central Valley to the stunning coastal views and relaxed atmosphere of the Southern California shoreline.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara's neighborhoods blend charm, culture, and stunning scenery.

Funk Zone
• Art galleries and wine tasting rooms abound.
• Unique boutiques and street art create a lively vibe.
State Street
• Main shopping and dining district in downtown.
• Historic theaters and vibrant nightlife attract locals and visitors.
Montecito
• Luxurious homes and serene beach access.
• Scenic coastal views and upscale dining options.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visits can make all the difference in Santa Barbara.

Stearns Wharf
Visit early morning to enjoy peaceful views and fewer tourists.
Santa Barbara Mission
Go on weekdays to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the architecture.
Botanic Garden
Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter, more serene experience.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with sunny summers and temperate winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in spring or fall offers the best weather and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Try the fish tacos at La Super Rica, a local favorite that captures the fresh, vibrant flavors of coastal cuisine, distinguishing it from the hearty, farm-driven dishes typical in Fresno. The relaxed, colorful atmosphere and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients create a unique dining experience that truly reflects the essence of Santa Barbara.

Fresno - Santa Barbara operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$45-45

Bus from Fresno to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Fresno to Bakersfield

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$1569-4480

Bus from Bakersfield to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Fresno to Hanford

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Hanford to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com/

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$1561-1562

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$256-543

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Santa Barbara (SBA) via Los Angeles

Average Duration
7h 16m
Estimated price
$200-1560
Website
https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Santa Barbara (SBA) via Las Vegas

Average Duration
4h 51m
Estimated price
$156-450
Website
https://www.aa.com/

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Santa Barbara (SBA) via Phoenix

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$1566-1567
Website
https://www.delta.com/

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Santa Barbara (SBA) via Salt Lake City

Average Duration
6h 18m
Estimated price
$1568-550
Drive

Drive from Fresno to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$45-70

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

Traveling between Fresno 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 Fresno to Santa Barbara covering 256 miles of breathtaking California landscapes in approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. 💰 With prices ranging from $45 to $70 for the journey by car, enjoy the flexibility of choosing a budget-friendly option or indulging in a more luxurious travel experience.
Average price
$45 - $70
🛫 Traveling from Fresno to Santa Barbara by plane involves a flight duration of approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between Fresno Airport and Santa Barbara Airport. 🌴 Airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines operate flights from Fresno Airport to Santa Barbara Airport, providing options for travelers looking to make this journey. The total travel time to reach Santa Barbara from Fresno is around 5 hours and 28 minutes. 💸 Flight prices for the route between Santa Barbara and Fresno can range from $256 to $543, offering travelers a variety of choices depending on their budget and preferences. Planning ahead can help secure the best deals on flights for this trip.
Departure Point
Fresno Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 10m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with Delta, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or United Airlines, as they all provide one-stop options from Fresno to Santa Barbara; however, be sure to compare layover times to minimize travel duration.
• Upon arriving at Santa Barbara Airport, expect a small but bustling terminal; it's advisable to follow the signs to the baggage claim quickly, as the facility can get crowded with incoming flights, so have your ride share or taxi booked beforehand for a smoother exit.
• Expect taxi prices from Santa Barbara Airport to the city center to range around $20 to $35, with ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft typically available at competitive rates, making it effortless to get to your destination; you can check live rates and estimated arrival times through their respective apps.
🌊 The scenic journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes to cover the distance between Fresno and Santa Barbara. Despite the indirect route, passengers can enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.
Departure Point
Fresno Bus Station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Fresno to Santa Barbara.

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The distance between Fresno and Santa Barbara is 162 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 256 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. If you choose to fly, it takes approximately 6 hours and 9 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Fresno. Taking a combination of flying and then a bus will take around 6 hours and 24 minutes. Driving by car typically takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes, while taking a bus will take around 6 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Fresno to Santa Barbara is to drive. It typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes, and the cost ranges from $45 to $70. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore other destinations if desired. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are also options to fly or take a bus, but these may take longer and be more expensive.
To travel from Fresno to Santa Barbara without public transportation, you can drive the distance of 256 miles. It takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes to drive from Fresno to Santa Barbara. The cost of driving from Fresno to Santa Barbara can range from $45 to $70, depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
The best way to travel from Fresno to Santa Barbara without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket may vary, so it is recommended to check with the bus operator for the current fare. This is a convenient and affordable option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
Yes, there is a connection between Fresno and Santa Barbara, although it is not a direct link. Bus services operated by Greyhound USA and Amtrak are available, with transfers at Bakersfield. The journey by bus takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes. Therefore, travelers can reach Santa Barbara from Fresno by bus, albeit with a transfer along the way.
The flight between Fresno and Santa Barbara typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on various factors, such as the time of booking and airline, but generally ranges from $241 to $526.
There are over 148 hotels available in Santa Barbara, offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in Santa Barbara start at $57 per night, so there are options available for different budgets. Some popular hotel options in Santa Barbara include the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, the Kimpton Canary Hotel, and the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Whether you're looking for a luxury stay or a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of choices in Santa Barbara.

Trips to Santa Barbara