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Santa Ana, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Ana, United States of America
to
Santa Barbara, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Ana 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.

$5 by trainBest price
209 kmDistance
2h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Ana 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
3h  54m
Estimated price
$5-90
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$5-90
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 209 km
Duration: 2h 14m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$15-86
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$15-86
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  14m
Estimated price
$23-35
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Traveling From Santa Ana to Santa Barbara

Traveling from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara offers a fascinating contrast between the vibrant urban energy of Santa Ana and the laid-back coastal charm of Santa Barbara.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

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

Funk Zone
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and murals.
• Trendy bars and wineries line the streets.
Downtown
• Historic architecture and bustling shopping districts.
• Dining options range from casual to upscale.
Mesa
• Close proximity to stunning beaches and parks.
• Offers breathtaking ocean views and sunsets.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Maximize your Santa Barbara experience by timing your visits to popular attractions.

Santa Barbara Mission
Visit in the early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Stearns Wharf
Afternoons during the week provide a quieter atmosphere for exploring.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Spring mornings highlight blooming flowers and offer peaceful trails.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, pleasant temperatures year-round, making it an inviting destination for travelers. Visiting during the spring and fall provides the best weather for outdoor activities, while summer can be quite warm, attracting more visitors to the beaches.

Dining Recommendation

For a distinctive dining experience in Santa Barbara, try the locally sourced fish tacos at The Lure Fish House, serving up fresh, flavorful seafood with a casual beachy vibe. Unlike the diverse street fare of Santa Ana, this restaurant highlights the coastal ingredients and relaxed atmosphere that reflect the region's picturesque surroundings.

Santa Ana - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Ana 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 Santa Ana to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
3h 54m
Estimated price
$5-90
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from Santa Ana station to L. A. Union Station

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$57-52
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from L. A. Union Station to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$5-35

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$901-53

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$904-50

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

Traveling between Santa Ana 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.

🚗 Begin your journey from Santa Ana, a bustling city known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse culinary offerings. Buckle up for a scenic drive spanning 130 miles to reach the charming coastal gem of Santa Barbara. 💰 Travelers can expect car rental prices ranging from $23 to $35 for the delightful road trip from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara. With a budget-friendly range, it's an affordable escapade for those seeking a quick getaway without breaking the bank. 🏖️ Arrive in Santa Barbara after a 2-hour and 14-minute drive, where you'll be greeted by stunning beaches, Spanish architecture, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Unwind, explore, and savor the relaxed charm of this picturesque destination on your getaway from Santa Ana.
Average price
$23 - $35
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara USA, with services running four times a day, every day. The trip aboard Amtrak takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes, covering a distance of 138 miles. 🎫 Ticket prices for this train ride can range from $5 to $90, offering an affordable and convenient mode of transportation between the two cities. Enjoy the comfort and ease of travel as you watch the beautiful landscapes pass by during your journey.
Departure Point
Santa Ana station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
🚌 Depart from Santa Ana Bus Stop and make your way to Santa Barbara Bus Stop, with a transfer at Los Angeles Union Station. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes. 🌆 Explore different routes with varying numbers of transfers and durations to reach Santa Barbara from Santa Ana by bus. Prices for the trip range from $15 to $86. 🗺️ Whether taking a 2-transfer route that lasts 7 hours and 39 minutes or opting for a quicker 1-transfer journey of 6 hours and 25 minutes, there are options to suit your travel preferences.
Departure Point
Santa Ana Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara.

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The distance between Santa Ana and Santa Barbara is approximately 115 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Santa Ana. Taking a combination of train and bus, the travel time is around 4 hours and 51 minutes. Alternatively, driving by car takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes, while taking a bus takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara is by train, which can cost between $5 to $90 and takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes. This option allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying scenic views along the way. However, if time efficiency is the priority, driving is the fastest option, taking around 2 hours and 14 minutes and costing between $23 to $35 in fuel expenses. It offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to set your own schedule.
The prices for traveling from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, the prices can range from $5 to $90. Meanwhile, taking a bus between the two cities can cost anywhere from $16 to $83. It is advisable to check schedules and prices in advance to choose the most affordable option for your travel needs.
To travel from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance by road between the two cities is approximately 130 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 14 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara can vary, with prices ranging from $23 to $35, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
The best way to travel from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara without a car is by train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes. The train journey offers scenic views along the way. The cost of the train ticket ranges from $5 to $90, depending on the class and type of ticket you choose.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Santa Ana and Santa Barbara. The train service, operated by Amtrak, departs from Santa Ana station and arrives at Santa Barbara station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes. On the other hand, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, but it is possible to take a bus from Santa Ana to Santa Barbara with a transfer at Los Angeles Union Station. This journey, including transfers, takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels to choose from, you'll have a variety of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Santa Barbara start at $57, providing affordable options for travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, there is something available for everyone in Santa Barbara.

Trips from Santa Ana

Trips to Santa Barbara