1map logoGo to main page

La Jolla, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $10: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
La Jolla, United States of America
to
Santa Barbara, United States of America

How to Get from La Jolla 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.

$10 by trainBest price
286 kmDistance
3h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from La Jolla 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
7h  1m
Estimated price
$21-80
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
7h  21m
Estimated price
$10-115
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 286 km
Duration: 3h 37m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  58m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  37m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  19m
Estimated price
$106-388
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  50m
Estimated price
$136-563
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  16m
Estimated price
$210-211

Traveling From La Jolla to Santa Barbara

Traveling from La Jolla to Santa Barbara offers a fascinating shift from the rugged coastal charm of La Jolla's cliffs to the laid-back elegance and Spanish-inspired architecture of Santa Barbara.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

State Street
• Lively shopping and dining options abound.
• Close to many local cultural attractions.
The Funk Zone
• Trendy galleries and wine tasting rooms are here.
• Vibrant street art adds to its charm.
Montecito
• Home to luxurious estates and serene gardens.
• Quaint boutiques and upscale restaurants thrive.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visit to Santa Barbara's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Santa Barbara Mission
Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and peaceful exploration.
Stearns Wharf
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views and a quieter atmosphere.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Spring showcases vibrant blooms; early mornings provide tranquility.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. The best times to visit are generally in the spring and fall, as pleasant temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of Santa Barbara, try the grilled fish tacos at Los Agaves, where vibrant flavors and fresh local ingredients stand out, offering a delightful contrast to La Jolla's more upscale seafood dining. The casual, festive atmosphere enhances the experience, allowing you to savor authentic Mexican cuisine in a relaxed coastal setting.

La Jolla - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between La Jolla 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 San Diego to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
7h 1m
Estimated price
$21-80
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Diego Old Town Transportation Center to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
7h 21m
Estimated price
$10-115

Train from Solana Beach Amtrak Station to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
2h 49m
Estimated price
$136-563
Website
https://www.southwest.com

Plane from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
4h 26m
Estimated price
$803-804
Website
https://www.delta.com

Plane from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
6h 3m
Estimated price
$2175-808
Website
https://www.aa.com

Plane from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
6h 2m
Estimated price
$800-214
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
https://www.centralcoastshuttle.com

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

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$105-80

Other from Santa Maria Airport, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$55-102
Website
https://www.slorta.org

Other from Broad @ Aero to Hagerman Softball Complex

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
$1150-1151

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

Traveling between La Jolla 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 La Jolla to Santa Barbara, spanning a distance of 210 miles. Explore the picturesque coastal views and charming towns along the way. 💰 Depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost to journey from La Jolla to Santa Barbara by car typically ranges from $35 to $55. Plan your budget accordingly for this delightful drive up the California coast. 🛣️ Allow around 3 hours and 37 minutes for a leisurely drive from La Jolla to Santa Barbara. Enjoy the journey as you pass through stunning landscapes and make unforgettable memories on this iconic California road trip.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from La Jolla to Santa Barbara, a trip that takes approximately 7 hours and 21 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views as you traverse the beautiful landscapes of Southern California. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train ride between La Jolla and Santa Barbara usually range from $10 to $115, offering travelers a budget-friendly transportation option. With flexible fare options available, you can choose the ticket that best suits your preferences and travel plans.
🛫 Embark on a journey from La Jolla to Santa Barbara by plane, with a flight duration of approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes. Although there is no direct flight available, various airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offer connecting flights from San Diego Airport to Santa Barbara Airport. 🛬 The quickest option involves a stopover, with the total travel time being 2 hours and 49 minutes. This layover provides an opportunity to relax, grab a bite to eat, or catch up on work before continuing the journey to the picturesque city of Santa Barbara. 💸 Prices for flights between Santa Barbara and La Jolla typically range from $136 to $563, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences. Whether you seek a quick weekend getaway or a leisurely vacation, flying to Santa Barbara presents a convenient and efficient travel option from the coastal region of La Jolla.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport. The quickest flight takes 2h 49m and has one stopover
🚌 If you're traveling from La Jolla to Santa Barbara by bus, be prepared for a journey with transfers. The route involves departing from Silverado St & Herschel Av, making a stop in San Diego, and finally arriving at Santa Barbara Bus Stop. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 1 minute. 💰 Ticket prices for the La Jolla to Santa Barbara bus range between $21 and $80. While the journey may take longer compared to driving, it offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for travelers looking to enjoy the coastal views and relax onboard a comfortable bus.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from La Jolla to Santa Barbara.

Or choose the category:
The distance between La Jolla and Santa Barbara is approximately 178 miles or 210 miles by car. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation vary. It takes around 7 hours and 21 minutes by train, 6 hours and 19 minutes by flying to Los Angeles and then taking a bus, and 5 hours and 54 minutes by plane. If you are traveling from Santa Barbara to La Jolla, it takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes by car and 7 hours and 6 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from La Jolla to Santa Barbara is by bus, with tickets ranging from $21 to $80. Although it takes approximately 7 hours and 6 minutes, it offers a low-cost alternative. If time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 37 minutes. While it may cost a bit more, with prices ranging from $35 to $55, it provides a faster travel time compared to other modes of transportation.
The prices for traveling between La Jolla and Santa Barbara can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. For the train, prices range from $10 to $115. If taking the bus, prices range from $21 to $80. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation companies for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To travel from La Jolla to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, driving is the best option. The distance between the two cities is approximately 210 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes to drive there. The cost of the journey by car can vary between $35 and $55, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from La Jolla to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 6 minutes and costs between $21 and $80. Another option is to take a train, which takes about 7 hours and 21 minutes and costs between $10 and $120. Alternatively, you can fly from La Jolla to Santa Barbara, which takes around 5 hours and 54 minutes and costs between $180 and $420.
Yes, there is a bus route from La Jolla to Santa Barbara, but it is not a direct link. The journey involves transferring at San Diego and takes approximately 7 hours and 6 minutes. The bus service is operated by Flixbus USA. Passengers depart from the San Diego station and arrive at the Santa Barbara Bus Stop.
The flight between La Jolla and Santa Barbara typically takes around 2 hours and 53 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight between San Diego Airport and Santa Barbara Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. On average, prices range from $181 to $413.
There are 148+ hotels available in Santa Barbara, offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices start at $57 per night, making it easy to find a hotel that suits your budget. Some popular hotels in Santa Barbara include the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, and the Kimpton Canary Hotel. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, there are plenty of options to choose from near Santa Barbara.

Trips to Santa Barbara