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Santa Barbara, CA, USA to La Jolla, CA, USA from $11: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Barbara, United States of America
to
La Jolla, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Barbara to La Jolla: 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.

$11 by trainBest price
339 kmDistance
3h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to La Jolla 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$21-77
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
6h  53m
Estimated price
$11-113
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 339 km
Duration: 3h 37m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  59m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  37m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$109-384
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  25m
Estimated price
$126-529
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Traveling From Santa Barbara to La Jolla

The journey from Santa Barbara to La Jolla offers a transition from charming coastal sophistication to a vibrant seaside escape, each destination showcasing its own distinct character and allure.

Best Neighbourhoods in La Jolla

La Jolla boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinctive experiences.

The Village
• Vibrant shops and restaurants along streets.
• Close proximity to La Jolla Cove.
Bird Rock
• Quaint beachfront ambiance and local cafes.
• Stunning ocean views and access to surfing.
La Jolla Shores
• Family-friendly beach with gentle waves.
• Ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Best Times To Visit La Jolla's Attractions

Planning your visit around the crowd can elevate your La Jolla experience.

La Jolla Cove
Visit early morning for serene views and fewer visitors.
The Children's Pool
Late afternoons offer calm waters and a quieter atmosphere.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Weekdays in the spring provide stunning wildflower blooms and less foot traffic.

La Jolla Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

La Jolla enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, making it an inviting destination for outdoor activities. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall, when you’ll experience pleasant weather and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in La Jolla

Consider trying the fresh sushi at Sushi Ota, where the focus on authentic Japanese flavors showcases a different culinary style than Santa Barbara’s coastal Mediterranean influence. The intimate atmosphere and dedication to using local seafood elevates your dining experience, making each bite a celebration of La Jolla's vibrant culinary scene.

Santa Barbara - La Jolla operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to San Diego

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$21-77
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Santa Barbara to San Diego Old Town Transportation Center

Average Duration
6h 53m
Estimated price
$11-113

Train from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$216-110
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$126-529
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$772-350
Website
delta.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
$776-777
Website
aa.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$219-600
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Other from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$216-110

Other from Los Angeles to Solana Beach Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$216-110

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to La Jolla.

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The distance between Santa Barbara and La Jolla is approximately 178 miles by road. It takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes to drive from La Jolla to Santa Barbara. By train, it takes approximately 6 hours and 53 minutes to travel from Santa Barbara to La Jolla. If you choose to fly, the travel time is around 5 hours and 10 minutes. However, taking the bus from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles and then flying from there takes around 5 hours and 41 minutes.
To travel from Santa Barbara to La Jolla, the most cost-effective option is to take the train, which can range from $10 to $120 and takes approximately 6 hours and 53 minutes. However, if time is a priority, driving would be the quickest option, taking approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes. Although driving may cost slightly more, with the estimated price range of $35 to $60, it would save a considerable amount of travel time.
The prices for traveling from Santa Barbara to La Jolla vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, the prices range from $11 to $113. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip between La Jolla and Santa Barbara range from $23 to $106. It is advisable to check for any discounts or promotions available before booking your ticket.
To get from Santa Barbara to La Jolla without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 211 miles, and the journey takes about 3 hours and 37 minutes. The cost of driving varies but is generally between $35 and $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Santa Barbara to La Jolla without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes and costs between $23 and $110. Another option is to take a train, which takes about 6 hours and 53 minutes and costs between $10 and $120. If you prefer a quicker option, you can also fly, which takes around 5 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $180 and $410.
There is no direct link between Santa Barbara and La Jolla by bus. However, you can take a bus from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles Downtown, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to La Jolla. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA.
The flight between Santa Barbara and La Jolla typically takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available. The cost of a flight between these two cities can range from $181 to $409 depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are many options for accommodations near La Jolla. There are over 1,039 hotels available, offering a range of prices starting at $52. You can choose from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options depending on your preferences and budget. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure your desired accommodation.

Trips from Santa Barbara