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San Bernardino, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $15: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Bernardino, United States of America
to
Santa Barbara, United States of America

How to Get from San Bernardino 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 by trainBest price
243 kmDistance
2h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Bernardino 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
4h  25m
Estimated price
$18-88
Recommended
Company
Metrolink / Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$15-115
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 243 km
Duration: 2h 36m

See more options

Company
Metrolink / Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  32m
Estimated price
$15-182
Company
Self-Drive
Drive
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$27-40
Company
Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$211-490
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  57m
Estimated price
$278-537
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Traveling From San Bernardino to Santa Barbara

The journey from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara offers a captivating contrast, transitioning you from the urban high desert landscape to the picturesque coastal charm and relaxed vibes of the Pacific coastline.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara boasts vibrant neighborhoods each offering its own charm and character.

Downtown
• Walkable streets lined with shops and eateries.
• Cultural attractions like the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.
West Beach
• Close proximity to the ocean and beach activities.
• Scenic views and a relaxed ambiance.
Elmira
• Historic buildings and beautiful landscapes.
• Quiet streets ideal for leisurely strolls.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Explore Santa Barbara's attractions at the best times to enhance your experience and avoid busy crowds.

Santa Barbara Zoo
Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds and cooler weather.
Stearns Wharf
Early mornings or late afternoons offer a quieter atmosphere and stunning views.
Mission Santa Barbara
Weekdays in the fall provide a serene visit to this historic site.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny summers and cool, rainy winters, making it an ideal destination any time of year. The pleasant weather influences your travel experience, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and sightseeing most days.

Dining Recommendation

Indulge in the fresh seafood at The Lure Fish House, where you can savor their renowned clam chowder and locally sourced fish tacos, reflecting Santa Barbara's coastal bounty. This dining experience stands in stark contrast to the heartier, more traditional fare often found in San Bernardino, offering a relaxed atmosphere that celebrates local ingredients and ocean-inspired flavors.

San Bernardino - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Bernardino 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
flixbus.com

Bus from San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$18-88

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$15-1500
Train Show train routes
Website
metrolinktrains.com

Train from San Bernardino - Downtown station to L. A. Union Station station

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
$15-115

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$154-1520
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$154-1520
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$180-400
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
3h 46m
Estimated price
$187-188
Website
aa.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
5h 38m
Estimated price
$1800-884
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
5h 47m
Estimated price
$881-885
Website
delta.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
6h 33m
Estimated price
$886-183

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

Traveling between San Bernardino 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 San Bernardino to Santa Barbara, spanning 151 miles of picturesque Californian landscapes. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes by car, offering a leisurely drive along the coast. 💸 Enjoy flexible pricing options ranging from $27 to $40 for the journey from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara by car. Whether you prioritize budget-friendly travel or a more comfortable ride, there are choices available to suit your needs.
Average price
$27 - $40
🚆 Traveling by train from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara is a scenic journey with a stop in Los Angeles. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes. 🚆 Ticket prices for the train ride between San Bernardino and Santa Barbara range from $15 to $115, offering travelers a cost-effective and comfortable transportation option to explore the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara.
Departure Point
San Bernardino - Downtown station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
🛫 Traveling from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara by plane is a quick and convenient option. The direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Santa Barbara Airport takes just 54 minutes with United Airlines. 🌴 With a total travel time of 6 hours and 57 minutes, flying is a comfortable way to reach the coastal beauty of Santa Barbara from San Bernardino. The route offers scenic views and a hassle-free journey. 💸 The prices for flights between Santa Barbara and San Bernardino can range from $278 to $537, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara, travelers can take a bus service departing from San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center with a journey time of approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes including transfers through Los Angeles Union Station. 🚌 Flixbus USA operates the San Bernardino to Santa Barbara bus route, providing a convenient and affordable option for passengers. Prices for a bus ticket between the two destinations range from $18 to $88, offering flexibility for different budgets.
Departure Point
San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara.

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The distance between San Bernardino and Santa Barbara is 140 miles by road. It takes roughly 2 hours and 36 minutes to drive from Santa Barbara to San Bernardino. By train, it takes 5 hours and 29 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from San Bernardino, while by bus, it takes 4 hours and 25 minutes. For faster travel, it is possible to take a train to Los Angeles and then fly to Santa Barbara, which takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes to drive the distance of 140 miles, and the cost is estimated to be around $27 to $40. Taking a bus is also a viable option, which takes 4 hours and 25 minutes but may have slightly higher costs.
The price of a train ticket from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara ranges from $15 to $115. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket from Santa Barbara to San Bernardino varies from $18 to $88. It's important to note that prices may differ depending on factors such as time of travel, booking class, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with the specific transportation provider for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To get from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is about 151 miles and it takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes to reach Santa Barbara by car. The cost of driving from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara can vary between $27 to $40, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from San Bernardino to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes and can cost between $17 to $90. Another alternative is to take a train, which takes around 5 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $15 to $120. Lastly, flying is an option, but it is the most expensive choice with a travel time of 6 hours and 57 minutes and costs between $170 to $500.
There is no direct link between San Bernardino and Santa Barbara by train. However, you can take a train from San Bernardino to Los Angeles and then transfer to another train that will take you to Santa Barbara. This option takes approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes. The same applies to bus travel, where you would need to transfer in Los Angeles, and the journey takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight between San Bernardino and Santa Barbara typically takes around 52 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $178 and $497, depending on the airline and time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal for your travel.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices start at $57, so there are options available for various budgets. From luxury resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone in Santa Barbara.

Trips from San Bernardino

Trips to Santa Barbara