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Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Costa Mesa, CA, USA from $15: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Barbara, United States of America
to
Costa Mesa, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa: 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.

$15 by busBest price
217 kmDistance
2h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa 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
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
4h  21m
Estimated price
$41-132
Recommended
Company
FlixBus, Metro Los Angeles
Bus
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
$15-51
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 217 km
Duration: 2h 19m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service, various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  41m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  19m
Estimated price
$24-40
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Traveling From Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa

The journey from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa offers a shift from the laid-back coastal charm and scenic beauty of the former to the vibrant urban energy and diverse cultural experiences of the latter.

Best Neighbourhoods in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

South Coast Metro
• Home to the renowned South Coast Plaza mall.
• Features a vibrant arts scene and top-notch dining.
Eastside Costa Mesa
• Known for its eclectic shops and cafes.
• Offers a laid-back, community-oriented vibe.
Mesa Verde
• Features beautiful parks and family-friendly amenities.
• Hosts a mix of residential and commercial areas.

Best Times To Visit Costa Mesa's Attractions

Navigating Costa Mesa’s attractions can be effortless with smart timing.

South Coast Plaza
Visit on weekdays during the early afternoon for fewer crowds and a relaxed shopping experience.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Evening performances on weekdays often feature less traffic and a quieter atmosphere.
The CAMP
Explore during weekday mornings to enjoy a peaceful vibe and local flavors.

Costa Mesa Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Costa Mesa enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a comfortable destination year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are smaller, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Costa Mesa

For a standout dining experience, try the vibrant flavors of Korean BBQ at Hae Yung, where you can grill your meat right at the table, setting it apart from Santa Barbara's seafood-focused cuisine. The lively atmosphere and the fusion of bold spices and local ingredients create a memorable meal that reflects the diverse culinary landscape of Costa Mesa.

Santa Barbara - Costa Mesa operators

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

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

Train from Santa Barbara to Santa Ana

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$5-410
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$15-51

Bus from Harbor Transitway / 37th St / USC to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$15-51
Contact phone
+1 714-560-6282
Website
https://www.octa.net

Bus from Fullerton Trans Ctr Dock 1 to Harbor-19Th

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$13-20
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Harbor Transitway / 37th St / USC to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$1-3

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

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa 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.

🚗 Discover the scenic beauty of Southern California as you embark on a 135-mile journey from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa. Enjoy the coastal views and lush landscapes along the route. 💸 The cost of traveling by car from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa ranges from $24 to $40, offering budget-friendly options for a road trip adventure. 🌴 Arrive in Costa Mesa after approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes of driving, ready to explore the vibrant arts scene, shopping districts, and delicious dining options this bustling city has to offer.
Average price
$24 - $40
🚂 Hop aboard a scenic train journey from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa, spanning a duration of 4 hours and 21 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views rolling by outside your window. 💰 Tickets for the train ride between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa come at a range of prices, starting from $41 and going up to $132 depending on the class and amenities you choose. Select the option that suits your preferences and budget best.
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa, you can still make the journey with services departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop and arriving at Harbor-19th. The trip, including transfers, typically takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes. 🌴 The Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa bus services are operated by Flixbus USA, departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop and arriving at Disneyland Employee's Entrance station. The buses make stops at Harbor Transitway / 37th St / USC and Harbor-East Shuttle Area along the way. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Costa Mesa and Santa Barbara can range from $15 to $51, offering an affordable option for travelers looking to make the journey by bus. Plan ahead and enjoy the convenience of bus travel between these two California destinations.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Disneyland Employee's Entrance station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa.

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa is approximately 116 miles by road. By train, it takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you prefer flying, followed by taking a bus, the total travel time is around 5 hours and 44 minutes. Driving by car is the quickest option, with an estimated travel time of 2 hours and 19 minutes. Taking a bus from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa would take approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa is by taking a bus and line 43 bus, which costs between $12 and $50. This option takes approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to reach Costa Mesa is by driving, which takes about 2 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $24 and $40 in fuel expenses.
When traveling from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa, the prices for a train ticket range from $41 to $132. Alternatively, taking a bus from Costa Mesa to Santa Barbara will cost anywhere between $12 and $48. Prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, availability, and specific service provider. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation companies for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 135 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 19 minutes to complete the journey. Depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll charges, the cost of traveling by car can range from $24 to $40.
To travel from Santa Barbara to Costa Mesa without a car, the best option is to take the train. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes, and prices range between $40 and $140. This mode of transportation allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenic views along the way. The train is a reliable and convenient choice for traveling between these two cities if you prefer not to drive.
There is no direct bus route between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa. However, there are options available with transfers. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 36 minutes, including the transfers. This route involves departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop, transferring at Union Station and Fullerton Trans Ctr Dock 1, and arriving at Harbor-19Th via bus services operated by Flixbus USA and OCTA.
The flight between Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa typically takes around 57 minutes. However, keep in mind that this is the flight time between Santa Barbara Airport and Los Angeles Airport, so you would still need to factor in the transportation time from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of promotions. It is recommended to check with different airlines or travel websites to get the most accurate and up-to-date cost information.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Costa Mesa. There are over 718 hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices starting at $69 per night. You can choose from a variety of hotels, motels, and resorts to suit your budget and preferences. It is advised to book in advance to secure the best deals and ensure availability.

Trips from Santa Barbara