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Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Arcata, CA, USA from $41: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Arcata: 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.

$41 - Train, BusBest price
990 kmDistance
7h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Arcata 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  39m
Estimated price
$301-704
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
21h  20m
Estimated price
$41-225
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 990 km
Duration: 7h 4m

See more options

Company
FlixBus USA, Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
14h  50m
Estimated price
$60-3010
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  17m
Estimated price
$67-730
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
7h  4m
Estimated price
$204-779
Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
17h  28m
Estimated price
$301-3012
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  46m
Estimated price
$3011-3012

Traveling From Santa Barbara to Arcata

The route from Santa Barbara to Arcata offers a stark contrast between the sun-kissed beaches of Southern California and the lush, coastal redwoods of Northern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Arcata

Arcata offers a variety of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Arcata
• Home to eclectic shops and cafes.
• Hosts the lively Arcata Plaza events.
Bayview
• Scenic views of Arcata Bay.
• Close to trails for nature walks.
Westside
• Features artistic murals and local breweries.
• Offers a laid-back, community vibe.

Best Times To Visit Arcata's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your experience at Arcata's highlights.

Humboldt Botanical Gardens
Visit in the morning during weekdays for fewer crowds and serene views.
Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary
Early mornings or late afternoons offer better chances to see wildlife.
Local Farmers’ Market
Saturdays in the off-season attract fewer visitors and more local vendors.

Arcata Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Arcata experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with cool summers and mild, wet winters, making it an inviting year-round destination. While late spring and early fall are usually the best times to visit for pleasant temperatures and minimal rain, the coastal fog can impact visibility and outdoor activities during summer.

Dining Recommendation in Arcata

Try the fresh Dungeness crab at the local favorite, The Fish Shack, where the vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest shine through. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with locally sourced seafood and a focus on sustainability, offers a distinct culinary experience that contrasts with the more upscale dining scene in Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara - Arcata operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
centralcoastshuttle.com

Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles Airport, CA

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$60-2252
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Oakland

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$413-418
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Oakland to Arcata Bus Stop

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$70440-2252
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Santa Barbara to Redding Amtrak

Average Duration
14h 38m
Estimated price
$2250-3015

Train from Santa Barbara to Martinez

Average Duration
9h 53m
Estimated price
$416-4100

Train from Martinez to Arcata

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Arcata/Eureka (ACV)

Average Duration
6h 22m
Estimated price
$7040-600

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Arcata/Eureka (ACV)

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$7040-600

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Arcata is approximately 509 miles. By car, it takes around 10 hours and 46 minutes to travel from Santa Barbara to Arcata. Alternatively, taking a train and then a bus would take about 21 hours and 12 minutes, and flying would take approximately 6 hours and 9 minutes. If traveling from Arcata to Santa Barbara, it would take around 14 hours and 50 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Arcata is by taking a train and then a bus, which can cost between $40 and $230. However, this option takes approximately 21 hours and 12 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 6 hours and 9 minutes. However, it is more expensive, with prices ranging between $300 and $750.
The prices for a bus ticket from Santa Barbara to Arcata range from $60 to $178, depending on factors such as the type of bus service and the duration of the journey. These prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the time of booking and availability. It is advisable to check with the bus operators or travel agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Santa Barbara to Arcata without using public transportation, you can drive the 615-mile distance. The journey typically takes around 10 hours and 46 minutes by car. It is advisable to check the current gas prices and calculate the cost of fuel for the trip, which can vary between $110 and $170.
To travel from Santa Barbara to Arcata without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and 50 minutes and the cost ranges from $60 to $180. There are no direct trains or flights available between these two cities, so the bus is the most convenient mode of transportation.
Yes, there is a connection between Santa Barbara and Arcata but it is not a direct link. There are bus services available that depart from Santa Barbara and arrive in Arcata, with transfers in Oakland. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and 50 minutes. The bus services are operated by companies such as FlixBus USA and Greyhound USA.
The flight between Santa Barbara and Arcata typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes, with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between the two airports. The cost of a flight between Arcata and Santa Barbara can range from $301 to $704, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Arcata. There are over 148 hotels to choose from with prices starting at $55. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Best Western, Holiday Inn Express, and Courtyard by Marriott. Additionally, there are also several bed and breakfast inns and vacation rentals available for those looking for a more unique experience.