Monterey, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $12: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$12 by trainBest price

196 milesDistance

4h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

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Traveling From Monterey to Santa Barbara

Embarking on your journey from Monterey to Santa Barbara offers a striking contrast—from the rugged coastal charm and artistically rich vibe of Monterey to the sun-kissed beaches and vibrant, laid-back atmosphere of Santa Barbara.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara features diverse neighborhoods that cater to various interests and experiences.

The Funk Zone

• Vibrant art galleries and trendy wine tasting rooms.

• Coastal views with a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.

State Street

• Bustling shopping area lined with restaurants and boutiques.

• Easy access to cultural attractions like theaters and museums.

Montecito

• Upscale residential area known for luxury estates.

• Beautiful gardens and scenic views of the mountains.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Planning your visit around the right times can enhance your Santa Barbara experience.

Santa Barbara Zoo

Mornings during weekdays offer a quieter experience with fewer visitors.

Stearns Wharf

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a relaxed stroll.

Mission Santa Barbara

Weekday afternoons provide a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination year-round. Spring and fall are especially pleasant, with moderate temperatures that enhance your outdoor experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Head to The Lark for an unforgettable experience featuring seasonal California cuisine, where you can savor dishes like wood-grilled octopus tossed with local vegetables. Unlike Monterey’s seafood-centric menu, Santa Barbara’s dining scene blends vibrant flavors with a lively atmosphere, showcasing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that bring a distinct twist to your culinary adventure.

Monterey - Santa Barbara operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

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

Bus from Salinas Amtrak Station to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration

5h 50m

Estimated price

$23-83

Bus from Salinas to Santa Barbara

Average Duration

7h 34m

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Salinas Train Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration

4h 20m

Estimated price

$21-80

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

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

Train from Salinas to Santa Barbara

Average Duration

6h 6m

Estimated price

$10-120

Shuttle

Contact phone

+1 800-470-8818

Website

https://www.centralcoastshuttle.com/

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

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$60-80

Contact phone

+1 831-373-7777

Website

http://groometransportation.com

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to SFO Airport International Arrivals

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

$45-60

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to San Jose International Airport

Average Duration

1h 55m

Estimated price

$40-50

Plane Show flights

Website

https://www.united.com/

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$180-600

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

Traveling between Monterey 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 Monterey to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 251 miles in approximately 4 hours and 17 minutes. Enjoy the breathtaking coastal views as you cruise down Highway 1. 💰 Prices to travel from Monterey to Santa Barbara by car typically range between $45 to $70, making it an affordable and convenient option for exploring the stunning California coastline. Take advantage of any pit stops along the way to stretch your legs and savor local cuisine.

Average price

$45 - $70

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Monterey to Santa Barbara, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 55 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful views along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Monterey and Santa Barbara range from $12 to $123, offering options for various budgets. Consider booking in advance to secure the best deals and discounts on your train fare.

🛫 Prepare for a quick and convenient flight from Monterey to Santa Barbara with a direct flight from Monterey Airport to Los Angeles Airport, lasting just 1 hour and 23 minutes.

Departure Point

Monterey Airport

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Airport

🚌 The journey from Monterey to Santa Barbara by bus takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes, including transfers. There is no direct bus route, but travelers can depart from Tyler / Franklin in Monterey and arrive at the Santa Barbara Amtrak Station via Salinas Amtrak Station. 🚌 Bus services operated by Amtrak are available for this route, with prices varying between $23 to $83. The distance covered is around 226 miles. Travelers can expect a comfortable journey, though it may involve transfers during the trip.

Departure Point

Salinas Amtrak Station

Arrival Point

Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Monterey and Santa Barbara is 196 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: by train, it takes 7 hours and 56 minutes; by taking a shuttle to San Francisco and then flying to Santa Barbara, it takes 6 hours and 13 minutes; by plane, it takes 5 hours and 52 minutes; by car, it takes 4 hours and 17 minutes; and by bus, it takes 6 hours and 50 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Monterey to Santa Barbara is by bus, with tickets ranging from $23 to $80. This mode of transportation takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to drive, which takes around 4 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $45 and $70 for fuel expenses.

The prices for a train ticket between Monterey and Santa Barbara range from $12 to $123. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket from Santa Barbara to Monterey vary from $23 to $78. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, time of travel, and type of ticket purchased. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

To get from Monterey to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 251 miles and it takes around 4 hours and 17 minutes. The prices for renting a car and driving from Monterey to Santa Barbara can vary from $45 to $70, depending on the rental car company and type of vehicle chosen.

To travel from Monterey to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes and costs between $23 and $80. Another alternative is to take a train, which takes 7 hours and 56 minutes and costs between $12 and $130. Lastly, you could also consider flying, which is the fastest option, taking approximately 5 hours and 52 minutes and costing between $230 and $650.

There is no direct link between Monterey and Santa Barbara by bus. However, there are bus services operated by Amtrak that depart from Salinas and arrive at Santa Barbara with a transfer in between, taking approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes. It is also worth noting that there are other modes of transportation available such as train, plane, and car, which may offer faster travel times and more direct routes between the two cities.

The flight between Monterey and Santa Barbara typically takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between these two airports. The prices for flights between Santa Barbara and Monterey range from $232 to $606. It is advisable to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $57 per night, making it accessible for all travelers. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, Santa Barbara offers a wide range of choices for visitors looking for a comfortable stay.

Monterey, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $12: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Monterey to Santa Barbara

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Monterey - Santa Barbara operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Monterey

Trips to Santa Barbara

Popular routes