Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Monterey, CA, USA from $13: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Santa Barbara to Monterey: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$13 by trainBest price
315.8 kmDistance
4h 18m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Monterey 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.
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Traveling From Santa Barbara to Monterey
Traveling from Santa Barbara to Monterey offers a delightful contrast between Santa Barbara's sun-kissed beaches and vibrant Spanish architecture and Monterey's scenic coastline, marine life encounters, and rich history.
Best Neighbourhoods in Monterey
Monterey boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinctive experiences for visitors.
Cannery Row
• Historic waterfront area with shops and restaurants.
• Close proximity to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Pacific Grove
• Charming seaside town known for its Victorian homes.
• Beautiful beaches and nature walks along the coast.
Downtown Monterey
• Vibrant dining and shopping options just steps away.
• Rich cultural attractions, including local galleries and museums.
Best Times To Visit Monterey's Attractions
Timing your visit can significantly enhance your Monterey experience.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Weekdays early in the morning offer quieter viewing of marine life.
Cannery Row
Visit during non-peak hours on weekdays for a more relaxed stroll.
17-Mile Drive
Sunset hours provide stunning views and fewer tourists along the route.
Monterey Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Monterey enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool, foggy summers and mild, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Spring and fall are often considered the best times to visit, as the weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.
Dining Recommendation in Monterey
For a taste of Monterey's coastal charm, try the clam chowder at Cannery Row's iconic Fish Hopper, where fresh seafood is the star and the stunning ocean views enhance the experience. Unlike Santa Barbara's focus on Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Monterey's culinary scene offers bold, hearty flavors rooted in the local catch, providing a flavorful journey into the heart of California's coast.
Santa Barbara - Monterey operators
Explore transport companies operating between Santa Barbara and Monterey, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Bus from Santa Barbara Amtrak Station to Salinas Amtrak Station
Average Duration
5h 10mEstimated price
$24-80Bus from Santa Barbara to Salinas
Average Duration
5h 15mEstimated price
$0-0Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://www.flixbus.com
Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Salinas Train Station
Average Duration
4h 20mEstimated price
$21-80Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818Website
https://www.centralcoastshuttle.com
Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles Airport, CA
Average Duration
2h 35mEstimated price
$60-80Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Santa Barbara to Salinas
Average Duration
5h 49mEstimated price
$10-120Train from Santa Barbara to Burbank Amtrak
Average Duration
2h 26mEstimated price
$3-75Website
https://southwest.com
Plane from Los Angeles Airport to Monterey Airport
Average Duration
1h 14mEstimated price
$55-210Plane from Burbank to San Jose
Average Duration
1h 13mEstimated price
$140-440Website
https://united.com
Plane from Los Angeles Airport to Monterey Airport
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
$180-600Website
https://alaskaair.com
Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose
Average Duration
1h 21mEstimated price
$80-480Website
https://delta.com
Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose
Average Duration
1h 13mEstimated price
$85-330Website
https://aa.com
Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose
Average Duration
1h 18mEstimated price
$95-480Website
https://flyfrontier.com
Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco
Average Duration
1h 23mEstimated price
$21-140Website
https://jetblue.com
Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco
Average Duration
1h 27mEstimated price
$55-330Santa Barbara to Monterey: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Santa Barbara and Monterey 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 251-mile road trip from Santa Barbara to Monterey, winding along the stunning California coastline with breathtaking ocean views.
💰 The cost to travel from Santa Barbara to Monterey by car ranges from $45 to $70, offering an affordable and flexible transportation option for exploring the Central Coast.
🌊 Arrive in Monterey after a 4-hour and 18-minute drive, ready to immerse yourself in the charming seaside town's rich history, vibrant marine life, and picturesque coastal beauty.
Average price
$45 - $70
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Santa Barbara to Monterey that takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, offering stunning views along the way.
💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between Santa Barbara and Monterey range from $13 to $118, making it an affordable and convenient option for travelers.
🛫 Flying from Santa Barbara to Monterey is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two coastal cities in California. With the quickest direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Monterey Airport taking only 1 hour and 21 minutes, you'll reach your destination swiftly.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport
🚌 Departing from Santa Barbara Amtrak Station, travelers can embark on a scenic journey towards Monterey. Although there is no direct bus route, the trip includes a transfer at Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7.
🛣️ The route spans approximately 221 miles, taking roughly 6 hours and 31 minutes to reach the destination. Passengers will find themselves transitioning between buses operated by Amtrak, offering a comfortable and convenient mode of transport.
💰 Ticket prices for the Santa Barbara to Monterey bus service range from $24 to $80, providing a cost-effective option for those looking to explore the central coast of California with ease. The trip unfolds as a delightful adventure for those seeking a picturesque travel experience.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Salinas Amtrak Station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to Monterey.
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The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara to Monterey is by taking the train. Amtrak offers affordable fares for this route, with prices ranging from $12 to $120, depending on the type of ticket and class. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara to Monterey is by driving, which takes approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 227 miles. When driving, it is recommended to take the US-101 N route for the quickest and most direct journey.
The distance from Santa Barbara to Monterey is approximately 196 miles. If you're driving, the road distance between the two cities is about 251 miles. However, keep in mind that actual travel distances may vary depending on the specific route taken.
The most convenient option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Monterey without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes. The cost of a bus ticket ranges from $23 to $80, depending on the provider and booking time. Several bus companies operate this route, offering different departure times throughout the day to accommodate varying schedules.
It takes approximately 6h 31m to travel from Santa Barbara to Monterey, including transfers. The journey time may vary depending on factors such as traffic and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to plan your travel in advance and check for any updates or delays that may affect the estimated time of arrival.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Monterey is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes and the ticket prices range from $23 to $80. Alternatively, you can choose to take a train, which takes around 7 hours and 10 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $12 to $120. Flying is another option, but it is more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $230 to $650, and the travel time is approximately 5 hours and 29 minutes.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Monterey. There are over 251 hotels available in Monterey, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious options. Prices for hotels in Monterey start at $65 per night, providing a variety of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Barbara to Monterey. The driving distance is approximately 251 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 18 minutes to complete the journey. You can take the scenic Pacific Coast Highway for a picturesque drive along the coast. Make sure to check for any road closures or construction before you start your trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Santa Barbara and Monterey. However, you can take a bus from Santa Barbara to Salinas Transit Center and then transfer to another bus to reach Monterey. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes, including transfers. The bus service operates from Santa Barbara to Salinas Transit Center and from there, you can catch the bus to Tyler/Franklin, which is in Monterey.
To catch the bus from Santa Barbara to Monterey you will need to go to the Santa Barbara station. This is where the bus services, operated by Amtrak, depart from. Make sure to arrive at the station early to ensure you don't miss the bus and to give yourself enough time to find your platform and get settled in for your journey.
The Santa Barbara to Monterey bus operated by Amtrak arrives at the Salinas station. The Salinas station is located at 110 Railroad Avenue in Salinas. It is a convenient location and provides easy access to Monterey and surrounding areas. The journey from Santa Barbara to Salinas usually takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and other factors.
American Airlines and United Airlines are the two airlines that offer flights between Santa Barbara and Monterey. American Airlines operates flights with one stopover, usually in Los Angeles or Phoenix, while United Airlines offers non-stop flights between the two cities. The duration of the flights varies depending on the route and layover time, with average travel times ranging from approximately 2 hours to 7 hours. It is advisable to check with both airlines for current flight schedules and fares.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara to Monterey is by plane, although there are no direct flights. The quickest flight option takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes with one stopover. Both American Airlines and United Airlines offer flights from Santa Barbara Airport to Monterey Airport. The total travel time by plane from Santa Barbara to Monterey is around 5 hours and 29 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $232 to $603 depending on the airline and time of booking.
The flight from Santa Barbara to Monterey is not a direct one. The quickest option available takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, but it involves one stopover. You will need to check the specific airlines and flight schedules to determine the duration of your layover. Keep in mind that flight times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
The cost of a flight from Santa Barbara to Monterey can range from $232 to $603. The prices can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals.
The cost of a bus from Santa Barbara to Monterey ranges from $24 to $80. The prices may vary depending on the bus operator, time of travel, and whether you choose a standard or premium service. It is recommended to book your bus tickets in advance to get the best deals.
The cost of driving from Santa Barbara to Monterey varies depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. On average, it can cost between $45 and $70 for a one-way trip. It is important to consider additional expenses such as tolls or parking fees. Additionally, the duration of the drive is approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a convenient and relatively affordable option for travel between the two locations.
Trips from Santa Barbara
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Trips to Pasadena
- Gilroy to Monterey
- Modesto to Monterey
- San Luis Obispo to Monterey
- San Diego to Monterey
- Morgan Hill to Monterey
- San Jose to Monterey
- Palo Alto to Monterey
- Santa Cruz to Monterey
- Sacramento to Monterey
- King City to Monterey
- Marina to Monterey
- Ventura to Monterey
- Merced to Monterey
- Oakland to Monterey
- Capitola to Monterey
- San Francisco to Monterey
- Fresno to Monterey
- Salinas to Monterey
- Los Angeles to Monterey
- Hollister to Monterey
- Big Sur to Monterey
- Long Beach to Monterey
- Reno to Monterey
- Palm Springs to Monterey
- Seattle to Monterey
- Burbank to Monterey
- San Simeon to Monterey
- Las Vegas to Monterey
- Cambria to Monterey
- New York City to Monterey
- Phoenix to Monterey
- Denver to Monterey
- Stockton to Monterey
- Aptos to Monterey
- Mexico City to Monterey
- Portland to Monterey
- Pacific Grove to Monterey
- Seaside to Monterey
- Carmel-by-the-Sea to Monterey
- Piedras Negras to Monterey