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San Diego, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $9: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego 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.

$9 by trainBest price
304 kmDistance
3h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  54m
Estimated price
$9-110
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  54m
Estimated price
$9-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 304 km
Duration: 3h 43m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
$21-78
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$91-92
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$111-90
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$191-430

Traveling From San Diego to Santa Barbara

Your journey from the vibrant coastal life of San Diego to the relaxed charm of Santa Barbara offers a delightful contrast between bustling city vibes and serene seaside elegance.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

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

Downtown Santa Barbara
• Vibrant shopping and dining scene along State Street.
• Historic architecture adds charm to the ambiance.
Funk Zone
• Hip art galleries and trendy wine tasting rooms.
• Street art and murals create a lively atmosphere.
Mesa
• Coastal access for stunning ocean views and beaches.
• Family-friendly vibe with parks and community spaces.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your Santa Barbara experience significantly.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Stearns Wharf
Weekdays in the early afternoon offer a quieter stroll with fewer tourists.
Mission Santa Barbara
Arrive during the weekdays to explore peacefully and enjoy the gardens.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination year-round. The pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities, so planning your visit during spring or fall can provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Experience the vibrant flavors of Santa Barbara at The Lark, where you can savor their signature wood-grilled octopus, showcasing fresh, local ingredients. This dining experience contrasts with San Diego’s beachy taco culture, offering an intimate ambiance and a menu that reflects the region's rich agricultural bounty.

San Diego - Santa Barbara operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
5h 54m
Estimated price
$9-110

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$21-219
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego Bus Stop to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
6h 32m
Estimated price
$21-78
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Drive

Drive from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
3h 43m
Estimated price
$35-60
Plane Show flights

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

Average Duration
5h 14m
Estimated price
$191-430

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$94-108

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$0-0
Website
https://www.southwest.com

Plane from San Diego to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
4h 26m
Estimated price
$1101-1102

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

Traveling between San Diego 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 Diego to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 218 miles through picturesque Californian landscapes. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes, making it a perfect day-trip adventure. 🌴 Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of driving from San Diego to Santa Barbara by car, with prices ranging between $35 to $60 depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees. Experience the coastal breeze and stunning ocean views along the way as you make your way north towards this charming city.
Average price
$35 - $60
🚂 Embark on a scenic journey from San Diego to Santa Barbara by train, with services running four times a day, seven days a week. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the approximately 5 hours and 54 minutes ride through beautiful California landscapes. 🌊 Covering a distance of 230 miles, the train ride offers a convenient and comfortable travel option between these coastal cities. Departing from San Diego station and arriving at Santa Barbara station, the Amtrak-operated services ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for passengers. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the San Diego to Santa Barbara train route range from $9 to $110, catering to various budget preferences. With multiple daily departures, travelers can easily explore the charm of Santa Barbara and its surroundings, making this train journey a convenient choice for those looking to discover the beauty of Southern California.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from San Diego to Santa Barbara, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner offers a snack bar service with a variety of food and beverages available on-board. You can find items like sandwiches, salads, and a selection of beverages including coffee, tea, and alcoholic drinks. Check their website for the latest menu options: amtrak.com
• The Pacific Surfliner provides several seating options including Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class is comfortable and budget-friendly, while Business Class offers extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. First Class provides the most luxurious experience with additional amenities. Consider booking your seat ahead for the best availability.
• Different operators service the San Diego to Santa Barbara route. Primarily, you will be traveling on Amtrak, which you can learn more about at their website: amtrak.com Another option to consider is Metrolink, which provides limited express service in some cases. Explore their website here: metrolinktrains.com For local transport schedules: sbmtd.gov
🛫 Traveling from San Diego to Santa Barbara by plane involves a flight with a one stopover, usually lasting around 2 hours and 49 minutes. Airlines like Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route. 🌴 The journey from sunny San Diego to beautiful Santa Barbara typically takes around 5 hours and 14 minutes. Despite there being no direct flights, the connecting flight offers a convenient way to reach your destination with ease. 💸 Prices for flights between Santa Barbara and San Diego vary depending on the airline and time of booking, ranging from $191 to $430. Keep an eye out for deals and promotions to secure the best fares for your trip between these Californian cities.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport. The quickest flight takes 2h 49m and has one stopover
🚌 While there is no direct bus from San Diego to Santa Barbara, travelers can take a bus from San Diego to Los Angeles and then transfer to another bus to reach Santa Barbara. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 7 hours and 5 minutes. 🛤️ Route options vary for those traveling from San Diego to Santa Barbara by bus, with distances ranging from 202 to 207 miles. Each route involves transfers, such as stopping in Los Angeles or San Jose, before reaching Santa Barbara. Prices for bus tickets between the two cities range from $21 to $78. 🌴 Overall, the bus journey from San Diego to Santa Barbara offers a scenic route along the California coast. Passengers can expect a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 32 minutes before reaching their destination in Santa Barbara.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for bus travellers
Consider booking your bus trip in advance with Amtrak or FlixBus to secure the best prices and ensure a seat, as the journey includes transfers and can be popular during peak times; you can find schedules on their websites: Amtrak - amtrak.com and FlixBus - flixbus.com
While waiting for your connection at Los Angeles Union Station, explore the station's numerous dining options, including partners like Traxx Restaurant and some local cafes, to grab a bite before your next leg to Santa Barbara; for station maps and dining options, visit unionstationlacity.org
Upon arriving at Santa Barbara Station, look for the information desk on the platform level for assistance with local transport options, such as the MTD bus service, which can efficiently take you to various parts of the city; more about local transit can be found at sbmtd.gov

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Santa Barbara is 189 miles by air, but 218 miles by road. Travel time by train from San Diego to Santa Barbara is approximately 5 hours and 54 minutes. If you choose to fly to Los Angeles first and then take a bus, the travel time is about 5 hours and 40 minutes. Additionally, a direct flight from San Diego to Santa Barbara takes around 5 hours and 31 minutes. Lastly, driving from Santa Barbara to San Diego takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes, while taking a bus in the opposite direction is about 6 hours and 37 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to Santa Barbara is by train, with prices ranging from $9 to $110 and a travel time of 5 hours and 54 minutes. This option allows for a comfortable and relaxing journey with the possibility of enjoying scenic views along the way. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by driving, which takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes and costs between $35 and $60. This option offers more flexibility and the convenience of having a vehicle at your disposal during your visit to Santa Barbara.
The prices for traveling from San Diego to Santa Barbara by train vary between $9 and $110. The prices for taking a bus from Santa Barbara to San Diego range from $21 to $78. It is important to check for specific ticket prices and promotions as they can vary based on availability and time of travel.
To get from San Diego to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The driving distance is approximately 218 miles and it takes about 3 hours and 43 minutes to reach Santa Barbara by car. The cost of the trip can vary, but it typically ranges from $35 to $60 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from San Diego to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a train which takes approximately 5 hours and 54 minutes and costs between $9 and $110. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $21 and $80. Alternatively, you can also take a flight which takes about 5 hours and 31 minutes and costs between $180 and $410.
Yes, there is a direct train link between San Diego and Santa Barbara. The train services operate four times a day and the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 54 minutes. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities, but there is a bus service that operates via Los Angeles, with a total travel time of approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes.
The flight between San Diego and Santa Barbara typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes with one stopover. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights between the two airports. The cost of a flight between Santa Barbara and San Diego can range from $181 to $410, depending on various factors such as the airline, the time of booking, and any additional services or amenities.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of options to suit their needs and budgets. Prices for hotels in Santa Barbara start at $57, providing a variety of choices for those seeking affordable accommodations. Whether you prefer a luxurious beachfront resort or a cozy inn, Santa Barbara offers a diverse range of options to ensure a comfortable stay.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Santa Barbara