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San Jose, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $13: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Jose 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.

$13 by trainBest price
383 kmDistance
4h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose 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
Drive
Average Duration
6h  30m
Estimated price
$25-90
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$13-140
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 383 km
Duration: 4h 16m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  9m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$175-373
Company
various
BART
Plane
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$223-250
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  46m
Estimated price
$251-252
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  48m
Estimated price
$253-254
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Traveling From San Jose to Santa Barbara

The journey from San Jose to Santa Barbara reveals a shift from the tech-driven bustle of Silicon Valley to the laid-back coastal vibes of Southern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Santa Barbara
• Vibrant shopping and dining scene.
• Historic architecture enhances the atmosphere.
West Beach
• Closest beach to downtown attractions.
• Great for water sports and sunbathing.
Santa Barbara Riviera
• Stunning views of the coastline and city.
• Picturesque homes in a serene setting.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Maximize your Santa Barbara experience by timing your visits to the city’s highlights right.

Santa Barbara Zoo
Visit in the morning right when it opens to enjoy cooler weather and shorter lines.
Stearns Wharf
Weekdays early in the morning provide a quiet stroll with stunning ocean views.
Santa Barbara Mission
Visiting in late afternoons allows you to appreciate the setting sun with fewer crowds.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a welcoming destination year-round. Visiting in spring or fall typically offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Try the fresh seafood at Brophy Bros., where the ocean views complement the delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. This coastal dining experience contrasts with the tech-forward culinary scene in San Jose, offering a relaxed vibe and flavors that celebrate Santa Barbara's maritime heritage.

San Jose - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Jose 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/routes.html

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$25-90
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/routes.html

Train from San Jose to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
7h 46m
Estimated price
$13-140

Train from San Jose to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
7h 46m
Estimated price
$13-140
all-pages.transport_alternative bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

all-pages.transport_alternative bus from San Jose Downtown to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$25-90
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
https://www.caltrain.com

Other from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$14-15
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.southwest.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$259-900
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$130-903
Website
https://www.delta.com

Plane from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$90-903
Website
https://www.alaskaair.com

Plane from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$905-906
Website
https://www.aa.com

Plane from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$901-907

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

Traveling between San Jose 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 picturesque road trip from San Jose to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 293 miles. Enjoy a scenic drive that takes you through stunning landscapes and charming towns along the route. 💰 Explore flexible pricing options ranging from $50 to $80 for the journey by car from San Jose to Santa Barbara. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your travel experience with the freedom of a road trip. 🏖️ Arrive in Santa Barbara after approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes of driving, ready to soak up the sun and explore the beautiful beaches and vibrant coastal vibe of this popular Californian destination. Get ready for a memorable journey filled with adventure and relaxation.
Average price
$50 - $80
🚆 Traveling by train from San Jose to Santa Barbara is a scenic and relaxing journey that takes approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes. The direct train service operated by Amtrak departs once daily and operates every day. 🌴 Sit back and enjoy the picturesque views along the 320-mile route as the train makes its way towards Santa Barbara. With prices ranging from $13 to $140, this train ride offers an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two California cities.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard catering services for the Amtrak Coast Starlight include a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. It's advisable to check the menu in advance and have a budget in mind, as dining options can vary.
• The Amtrak Coast Starlight offers several seating options: First Class (with spacious, reclining seats and complimentary meals), Business Class (more spacious and comfortable than Economy), and Economy Class (standard seating). Consider upgrading to First Class for additional comfort on this scenic route.
• Multiple operators service this route, including Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Metrolink (metrolinktrains.com for connections). Be sure to check their respective websites for schedules and ticketing options.
• Upon arrival at Santa Barbara station, note that luggage services are available, allowing you to leave your bags if you want to explore the city before checking into your accommodation. The station also has restrooms, but there are no shower facilities. It's a small station, so navigating is straightforward.
• The fastest way to reach Santa Barbara city center from the train station is by using the MTD bus service. Take the Line 1 bus heading towards the downtown area. It runs frequently, with stops close to main attractions and downtown hotels.
🛫 Flying from San Jose to Santa Barbara is a quick and convenient travel option, with a direct flight from San Francisco Airport taking just 1 hour and 13 minutes with United Airlines. 🌴 Upon arrival in Santa Barbara, you can expect a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 46 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the scenic coastline and beautiful surroundings of this charming California city. 💸 The prices for flights between Santa Barbara and San Jose can range from $175 to $373, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a flight option that suits their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Jose to Santa Barbara by bus is a convenient option with services departing five times a day. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes, providing a comfortable and affordable way to reach your destination. 🚌 The direct bus route covers a distance of 254 miles, taking approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes to arrive in Santa Barbara. Passengers can relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way as they travel towards their destination on the Amtrak-operated bus.
Departure Point
San Jose Diridon Station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, check the Amtrak Thruway connecting services for potential bus schedules and booking at their official site: amtrak.com to ensure all service options are available and up to date.
• As you kick off your journey from San Jose Diridon Station, arrive at least 30 minutes early to navigate the station and board your bus with ease, especially during peak travel times when it can get crowded.
• Upon arriving at Santa Barbara Amtrak Station, familiarize yourself with the local transit options that connect directly outside the station, such as the MTD Bus System, which can be accessed for further travel around the city; check their schedules here: sbmtd.gov

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Jose to Santa Barbara is by taking a train. The train ticket prices range from $13 to $140, depending on the type of train and class you choose. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes, providing you with a comfortable and affordable option to reach your destination.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose to Santa Barbara is to take the BART train to the San Francisco International Airport and then fly to Santa Barbara. This route takes approximately 4 hours and 16 minutes. The cost of this option ranges from $220 to $550, depending on the airline and time of booking. Alternatively, driving by car may also be fast, taking around 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
The distance between San Jose and Santa Barbara is approximately 238 miles. If you plan to drive, the road distance is about 292.6 miles. However, it's important to note that these distances may vary depending on the specific route and traffic conditions. It is advisable to consult a reliable map or navigation app for the most accurate distance and route information.
The best way to travel from San Jose to Santa Barbara without a car is by taking the Amtrak Thruway service. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes and fares range from $25 to $90 depending on the time and date of travel. The Amtrak Thruway service offers convenient and comfortable transportation with various departure times throughout the day, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your schedule.
The journey from San Jose to Santa Barbara by Amtrak Thruway takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. This includes transfers along the way and the train departs five times a day from San Jose Diridon Station. The duration may vary depending on factors such as traffic and specific travel dates. It is recommended to check the schedule and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and efficient trip.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Santa Barbara, with over 148 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in Santa Barbara start at $57 per night. Some popular hotel options in the area include The Fess Parker - A DoubleTree by Hilton Resort, Hotel Santa Barbara, and the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, you'll be able to find a suitable place to stay in Santa Barbara.
Yes, you can drive from San Jose to Santa Barbara. The distance is 293 miles and it takes about 4 hours and 58 minutes to drive, depending on traffic conditions. To get there, you would take Highway 101 South, which is a scenic route along the Pacific coastline. Be sure to plan for gas, tolls, and any rest stops along the way.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Jose and Santa Barbara. The bus service operates five times a day, every day, with departures from San Jose Diridon Station and arrivals at Santa Barbara Amtrak Station. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. This is a convenient and affordable option for traveling between the two cities.
To catch the bus from San Jose to Santa Barbara you need to go to the San Jose Diridon Station. This is the main transportation hub in San Jose and is conveniently located in downtown. Amtrak operates the bus service between San Jose and Santa Barbara, so you can look for their buses at the station. Be sure to check the schedule in advance and arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth departure.
The San Jose to Santa Barbara bus service, operated by Amtrak, arrives at Santa Barbara Amtrak Station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Santa Barbara, making it easy to access nearby attractions or continue your journey to other destinations. The Santa Barbara Amtrak Station offers various amenities such as waiting areas, restrooms, and ticketing services to ensure a comfortable arrival and departure experience.
To get to Santa Barbara from the airport in San Jose, you can take the line 60 bus from the airport to the Santa Clara Caltrain Station. From there, you can take a Caltrain to San Jose Diridon Station. At the Diridon Station, take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner towards Los Angeles. This train will take you directly to Santa Barbara. The total journey time is approximately 6 hours and the cost is around $30-$95, depending on the class of service.
United Airlines offers flights from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Other airlines such as American Airlines and Alaska Airlines also offer flights between San Jose and Santa Barbara with various connecting airports. It is recommended to check for the latest flight schedules and prices on the respective airline's official websites or through popular travel booking platforms.
The fastest way to get from San Jose to Santa Barbara is by taking a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara Airport. This flight takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. United Airlines offers flights on this route and the prices generally range from $175 to $373. Overall, the journey by plane takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes.
The flight from San Jose to Santa Barbara typically takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes. However, this is the duration for a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara Airport. If you are departing from a different airport in San Jose, it may take longer depending on the layovers or connections. It's important to check the specific flight schedules and routes to get the most accurate estimate for your travel time.
Trains from San Jose to Santa Barbara arrive at the Santa Barbara station. The Santa Barbara station is conveniently located in downtown Santa Barbara, making it easy to access nearby attractions and accommodations. This station is served by Amtrak, which provides comfortable and reliable train services between the two cities. Upon arrival at the Santa Barbara station, passengers can easily find taxis, rideshares, or public transportation to continue their journey within the city.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Jose and Santa Barbara. The train service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey on the direct train takes approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct option for traveling between the two cities.
To catch the train from San Jose to Santa Barbara head to the San Jose station. This is where the Amtrak train services, which operate the route, depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance and arrive at the station with ample time before departure. The San Jose station is conveniently located in downtown San Jose, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The cost of a flight from San Jose to Santa Barbara can range from $175 to $373, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It is recommended to compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal. Additionally, booking in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help secure lower fares.
The cost of a train ticket from San Jose to Santa Barbara varies depending on factors such as the class of service, time of travel, and availability. On average, the price ranges from $13 to $140. It's recommended to book in advance and check for any discounts or promotional fares to get the best value for your journey.
The cost to drive from San Jose to Santa Barbara can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. On average, you can expect to spend around $50-80 for the fuel for the round trip. However, keep in mind that additional expenses such as tolls and parking fees may apply. It is always a good idea to plan ahead and budget accordingly for these costs.

Trips from San Jose

Trips to Santa Barbara