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Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Oceanside, CA, USA from $8: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Oceanside: 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.

$8 by trainBest price
256 kmDistance
3h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Oceanside 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
5h  14m
Estimated price
$8-100
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$8-100
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 256 km
Duration: 3h 6m

See more options

Company
FlixBus 2013
Bus
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$20-92
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  17m
Estimated price
$80-191
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  20m
Estimated price
$81-501
Company
LAX Linq
Bus
Average Duration
5h  50m
Estimated price
$108-136
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Traveling From Santa Barbara to Oceanside

The journey from Santa Barbara to Oceanside offers a fascinating blend of Santa Barbara's coastal charm and cultural vibrancy contrasted with Oceanside's laid-back beach atmosphere and surf culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oceanside

Oceanside boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its distinct charm and experiences.

Downtown Oceanside
• Vibrant dining and shopping options abound.
• Close proximity to the beach and pier.
South Oceanside
• Quaint coffee shops with local flair.
• Scenic coastal views and surf spots.
Oceanside Harbor
• Picturesque marina with boating activities.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with picnic areas.

Best Times To Visit Oceanside's Attractions

Timing your visits to Oceanside's attractions can enhance your overall experience.

Oceanside Pier
Visit early in the morning for stunning sunrises and fewer crowds.
California Surf Museum
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere to explore the exhibits.
Oceanside Harbor
Late afternoon is ideal for watching the sunset and enjoying fewer tourists.

Oceanside Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oceanside enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with pleasant temperatures year-round, making it a welcoming destination anytime. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall when the weather is comfortable, and crowds are thinner, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Oceanside

Try the fish tacos at The Fish Joint, where the flavors burst from fresh, local ingredients that reflect Oceanside's vibrant surf culture. This casual eatery offers an inviting beachy atmosphere that stands in contrast to Santa Barbara's more upscale dining scene, bringing a relaxed, approachable experience to your meal.

Santa Barbara - Oceanside operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Barbara and Oceanside, 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 Barbara to Oceanside

Average Duration
5h 14m
Estimated price
$8-100
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$20-92

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Oceanside

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$9-205
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Oceanside Transportation Center

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$9-205
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
https://centralcoastshuttle.com

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

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$200-80
Contact phone
(323)-776-5467
Website
https://laxlinq.com/

Bus from LAX Terminal 3 Lower Level pickup to 301 Mission Ave STE 205, Oceanside, CA

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$203-200
Plane Show flights
Website
https://united.com

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

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$84-86
Website
https://southwest.com

Plane from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$87-88
Website
https://aa.com

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

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$1003-1004
Website
https://delta.com

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

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
$1005-1006

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

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Oceanside 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 road trip from Santa Barbara to Oceanside, covering 182 miles of California's stunning coastline. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes, passing through picturesque coastal towns and beautiful landscapes along the way. 💸 Depending on gas prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of traveling from Santa Barbara to Oceanside by car typically ranges from $30 to $50. This budget-friendly option allows you the freedom to explore various pit stops and attractions on your journey, making it a fun and affordable travel experience.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Traveling from Santa Barbara to Oceanside by train is a convenient and scenic journey that takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for this train route typically range from $8 to $100, providing budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the beautiful California coast by rail.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara station
Arrival Point
Oceanside station
🛫 Flying from Santa Barbara to Oceanside involves taking a connecting flight through San Diego Airport. The quickest option with one stopover typically lasts around 3 hours and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 10m and has one stopover
🚌 Traveling from Santa Barbara to Oceanside by bus involves a journey with one transfer at Los Angeles Union Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes. 🚌 Flixbus USA operates the bus service departing from Santa Barbara Bus Stop, while Greyhound Mexico handles the arrival at Oceanside station. The bus ticket prices for this route can range from $20 to $92, offering various options for travelers.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Oceanside station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Oceanside is approximately 159 miles, or 181.8 miles by road. By train, it takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes to travel from Santa Barbara to Oceanside. If you choose to take a combination of flying and taking the train, the total travel time is around 6 hours and 22 minutes. Alternatively, traveling by car takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes, while taking a bus usually takes around 5 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Oceanside is by train, with prices ranging from $8 to $100. This journey typically takes around 5 hours and 14 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, driving is the most time-efficient option, taking approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes and costing between $30 and $50. Both options provide convenient transportation between the two cities, allowing travelers to choose based on their budget and preferred travel time.
The prices for train travel between Santa Barbara and Oceanside can range from $8 to $100, depending on factors such as the class of service and whether it is a one-way or round-trip ticket. On the other hand, bus fares between Oceanside and Santa Barbara can vary from $19 to $91. These prices may differ based on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and any discounts or promotions that may be available.
To travel from Santa Barbara to Oceanside without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 182 miles, which takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes. The cost to travel by car is typically between $30 to $50, depending on factors like fuel prices and tolls. This option allows for greater flexibility in terms of stops or sightseeing along the way.
The best way to travel from Santa Barbara to Oceanside without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes and can cost between $8 and $100, depending on the type of ticket and class selected. Taking the train also allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Santa Barbara and Oceanside. The Amtrak train service operates four times a day and the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 14 minutes. There is no direct bus route, but there are bus services that can take you from Santa Barbara to Oceanside with a transfer at Los Angeles Union Station. This bus journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes.
The flight between Santa Barbara and Oceanside typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes with one stopover. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book. Generally, prices can range from around $150 to $350 for a one-way ticket. It is best to check with different airlines and use flight search engines to find the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are many options for accommodation in Oceanside. There are 563+ hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices starting at $52 and upwards. You can choose from a variety of hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. It is advisable to check for availability and make reservations in advance to ensure you have a comfortable stay near Oceanside.

Trips from Santa Barbara