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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $19: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Luis Obispo, United States of America
to
Santa Barbara, United States of America

How to Get from San Luis Obispo 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.

$19 by carBest price
171 kmDistance
1h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo 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
2h  35m
Estimated price
$5-85
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  50m
Estimated price
$19-28
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 171 km
Duration: 1h 50m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
2h  50m
Estimated price
$11-50
Company
Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$11-50
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Traveling From San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara

The journey from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara offers a rich contrast, with San Luis Obispo’s laid-back charm and vibrant vineyards transitioning to Santa Barbara’s upscale coastal allure and stunning Mediterranean architecture.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

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

The Funk Zone
• Art galleries and vibrant street murals abound.
• Excellent wine tasting rooms and trendy eateries.
Montecito
• Home to luxurious estates and celebrity residences.
• Beautiful botanical gardens and serene beaches.
Downtown Santa Barbara
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and entertainment options.
• Iconic Spanish Colonial architecture enhances the experience.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visits can transform your experience in Santa Barbara's attractions.

Santa Barbara Zoo
Early mornings on weekdays offer a quieter experience with active animals.
Stearns Wharf
Visit during sunset for stunning views and fewer tourists.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Mid-afternoon on weekdays allows for a leisurely exploration without crowds.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are lighter, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Consider visiting the iconic Santa Barbara seafood restaurant, The Marine Room, where you can savor fresh, local catch prepared with a coastal twist that contrasts with San Luis Obispo's farm-to-table focus. The oceanfront ambiance and innovative flavors bring a distinctive charm to your dining experience, allowing you to indulge in the region's rich maritime bounty.

San Luis Obispo - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Luis Obispo 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 Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$5-85
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$11-50
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$11-50

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

Traveling between San Luis Obispo 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 journey along the Pacific Coast Highway from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 106 miles. Enjoy stunning ocean views and charming coastal towns along the way. 💰 The cost of driving from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara ranges from $19 to $28, providing an affordable and flexible travel option. Explore roadside attractions and stop at local eateries to make the most of your road trip experience. 🌴 Arrive in Santa Barbara after approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes of driving, ready to explore the Spanish-inspired architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene of this Southern California gem. Unwind and indulge in the laid-back coastal vibes of Santa Barbara.
Average price
$19 - $28
🚆 Catch a direct train from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara operated by Amtrak, departing three times a day and taking approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to reach your destination. 🌴 Sit back and enjoy the scenic journey covering a distance of 119 miles as you travel through the picturesque California coast. The Pacific Surfliner or Coast Starlight trains will take you from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara with ease and comfort. 🚌 For a convenient alternative, consider taking a bus through Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service, which will also get you from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara in about 2 hours and 40 minutes. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, your trip to this charming coastal city will be a delightful experience.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara, you will likely be traveling on Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner. The onboard catering services include a café car that offers a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. Be sure to check the menu online in advance at Amtrak Pacific Surfliner so you can plan your meal.
• The Pacific Surfliner offers different seating options: Business Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary beverages, while Economy Class is also comfortable but with standard seating. If you want extra comfort and amenities, consider upgrading to Business Class for the journey.
• Upon arriving at Santa Barbara station, you’ll find an easy navigation system, but be aware that the station does not provide luggage storage facilities. You can use the restrooms located in the station, but showers are not available. To get to the city center quickly, take the MTD bus routes 1 or 2, which run frequently from the station. For more information, visit Santa Barbara MTD for schedules.
🚌 Experience a convenient journey from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara by bus 🌴. The direct bus service operated by Amtrak takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes 🕒, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic route along the California coast. 🚍 Departing every two hours, the bus service connects San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station 🚉, covering a distance of 92.2 miles. With fares ranging from $11 to $50 💸, this affordable and efficient travel option is perfect for exploring these coastal cities at your own pace.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara is by driving. The approximate cost of fuel for the journey is $19-$28, depending on the current gas prices and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The driving distance between the two cities is around 99 miles, and the average travel time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara is by driving. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving is usually around $19 to $28, which includes fuel and tolls. It is recommended to check for any road closures or heavy traffic before departing to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.
It is approximately 81 miles from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara. The road distance is slightly longer at 106.3 miles. Depending on traffic and driving conditions, the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. It is a scenic drive along the California coastline, offering beautiful views along the way.
The best way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that offer transportation between the two cities, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours. The cost of the bus ticket varies depending on the company, but it typically ranges from $11 to $50. It is recommended to check the schedules and fares of different bus companies for the most affordable and convenient option.
The bus from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara takes approximately 2 hours, including transfers. Buses operate every four hours, providing multiple options throughout the day. The duration of the journey may vary slightly depending on traffic conditions and any potential delays.
There are many options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. There are over 148 hotels available, with prices starting at $57 per night. Some popular hotels in Santa Barbara include the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, the Fess Parker DoubleTree Resort, and the Harbor View Inn. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to compare prices for the best deals.
Yes, you can definitely drive from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara. The driving distance between the two cities is about 106 miles, and it typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete the journey by car. The route usually follows Highway 101, which is a popular and well-maintained highway for traveling along the California coast.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. The bus departs from San Luis Obispo and arrives in Santa Barbara. The service runs every four hours, seven days a week. The journey duration is approximately 2 hours.
You can catch the San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara bus from the San Luis Obispo station. The bus service is operated by Amtrak. The station is located at 1011 Railroad Ave, San Luis Obispo 93401. It is advisable to arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara bus operated by Amtrak arrives at the Santa Barbara station. This station is located at 209 State St, Santa Barbara 93101. It is a convenient and central location in Santa Barbara, making it easy to access other parts of the city from there.
Trains from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara arrive at Santa Barbara station. This is the only train station in Santa Barbara and serves as the main hub for Amtrak services in the area. The station is centrally located downtown, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city. Upon arrival, passengers can easily access local transportation options or explore attractions within walking distance of the station.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. The train service operates three times a day and runs every day. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes. This can be a convenient and comfortable option for travelers looking to avoid driving or traffic.
To catch the train from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara you will need to go to the San Luis Obispo train station. Amtrak operates train services on this route. The station is located at 1011 Railroad Avenue, San Luis Obispo 93401. From there, you can board the Amtrak train that will take you directly to Santa Barbara.
The cost of a train from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara ranges from $5 to $85, depending on factors such as the type of ticket, the class of travel, and whether it is peak or off-peak times. Prices for a basic one-way ticket tend to fall within this range. To get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information, it is recommended that you check with the train service provider or book directly through their website.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara can range from $11 to $50, depending on the bus company and the time of travel. Greyhound, for example, offers tickets starting at around $11, while other companies may charge higher prices. It's recommended to book in advance and compare prices to ensure you get the best deal.
The cost of driving from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara can vary between $19 and $28. This cost includes fuel expenses, tolls, and any parking fees. The driving distance between these two cities is approximately 104 miles, and it usually takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete the journey. It's important to note that these costs are estimates and can change depending on factors such as current fuel prices and road conditions.

Trips from San Luis Obispo

Trips to Santa Barbara