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Palm Springs, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $15: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palm Springs, United States of America
to
Santa Barbara, United States of America

How to Get from Palm Springs 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.

$15 - Bus, TrainBest price
299 kmDistance
3h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palm Springs 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
5h  20m
Estimated price
$22-98
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$15-128
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 299 km
Duration: 3h 27m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway
Bus
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Amtrak
Bus
Train
Average Duration
6h  52m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$210-561
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$220-756
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$220-221
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Traveling From Palm Springs to Santa Barbara

The journey from the desert oasis of Palm Springs to the coastal charm of Santa Barbara offers a striking contrast between arid landscapes and lush coastlines.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences.

Mesa
• Panoramic ocean views from various spots.
• Close proximity to scenic beaches.
State Street
• Bustling shopping and dining hub.
• Charming Spanish architecture throughout the area.
Funk Zone
• Vibrant art galleries and wine tasting rooms.
• Eclectic atmosphere with street art and murals.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Santa Barbara's highlights.

Santa Barbara Mission
Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy peaceful exploration.
Stearns Wharf
Afternoon visits during weekdays offer a relaxing atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Visit in late spring for blooming flowers and mild weather without crowds.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round, making it a welcoming destination at any time. Spring and fall stand out as ideal seasons for comfortably exploring outdoor attractions while avoiding the summer tourist rush.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Try the fresh seafood at The Oyster Bar, where the ocean's bounty is celebrated with vibrant flavors and local ingredients. This experience contrasts with Palm Springs’ desert-inspired cuisine, offering a laid-back seaside vibe that invites you to savor the day's catch while enjoying stunning waterfront views.

Palm Springs - Santa Barbara operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Palm Springs Downtown to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$22-98

Bus from Los Angeles Downtown to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$22-98

Bus from Palm Springs Downtown to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$15-128
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$984-985

Train from Fullerton Amtrak Station to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
3h 37m
Estimated price
$155-156

Train from Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$15-987
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
6h 4m
Estimated price
$224-225

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$224-225

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$224-226
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$227-228

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$229-980
Website
aa.com

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration
5h 58m
Estimated price
$981-982
Website
delta.com

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration
6h 18m
Estimated price
$224-983

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

Traveling between Palm Springs 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.

🚗 Driving from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara is a scenic journey covering 203 miles, with majestic desert landscapes transitioning to coastal vistas along the route. 💸 The cost of this road trip ranges from $35 to $55, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore the beauty of Southern California by car. ⏰ With an estimated driving time of 3 hours and 27 minutes, travelers can enjoy a leisurely drive with opportunities to stop at charming towns and attractions along the way.
Average price
$35 - $55
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara by train, spanning a distance of 209 miles. The first leg of the trip involves a 3-hour 33-minute ride on the Sunset Limited train to Union Station in Los Angeles. 🌊 After a brief transfer, hop aboard the Pacific Surfliner for a 2-hour 42-minute ride to picturesque Santa Barbara. Enjoy the coastal views and relax as you approach your final destination. 🌴 Arrive in Santa Barbara after a total travel time of 7 hours and 53 minutes. Let the charm of this coastal city welcome you as you step off the train and begin your exploration of all that it has to offer.
🛫 Flying from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara involves a 3-hour and 40-minute journey with one layover. Various airlines like Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines operate flights between these cities. 🌴 The flight duration from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara is approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. Despite the lack of a direct route, travelers can enjoy a convenient and scenic trip between these two Southern California destinations. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Santa Barbara and Palm Springs typically range from $220 to $756, offering passengers flexibility in choosing a fare that suits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Indio/Palm Springs Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 40m and has one stopover
🌴 The total travel time from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara by bus is approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes. This includes the time for transfers between buses. 💰 Bus ticket prices for the Palm Springs to Santa Barbara route can range from $22 to $98, offering travelers a range of options to fit their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Palm Springs Downtown station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara.

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The distance between Palm Springs and Santa Barbara is 186 miles, with a road distance of 202.9 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By taking a night bus and then a train, it takes about 6 hours and 2 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Palm Springs. If you choose to travel by plane, it takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. By car, the journey from Santa Barbara to Palm Springs usually takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes. Meanwhile, traveling by bus from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara takes about 6 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara is to drive. It takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes to drive the 202.9-mile road distance between the two cities. This option is both the quickest and the cheapest, with estimated costs ranging from $35 to $55.
To travel from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 203 miles, which takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. The cost of this option may vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but typically ranges from $35 to $55.
To travel from Palm Springs to Santa Barbara without a car, you can take a night bus and then a train. This journey takes approximately 6 hours and 2 minutes and the cost ranges from $15 to $130. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while reaching your destination conveniently.
Yes, there is a link between Palm Springs and Santa Barbara but there is no direct bus service. To travel by bus, you would need to take a bus from Palm Springs Downtown to Los Angeles, and then transfer to another bus to Santa Barbara. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. Other modes of transportation, such as driving or flying, might offer more direct or faster options for reaching Santa Barbara from Palm Springs.
The flight between Palm Springs and Santa Barbara typically takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes, with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights between the two cities. The cost of a flight from Santa Barbara to Palm Springs can range from $240 to $856, depending on the airline and time of booking. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels available, visitors can find a variety of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Santa Barbara start at $57 per night, offering affordable choices for those on a budget. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, there are plenty of options to choose from when staying near Santa Barbara.

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