Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA from $13: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$13 - OtherBest price

122 kmDistance

1h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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 Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

The journey from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria offers a striking contrast; while Santa Barbara features scenic beaches and vibrant nightlife, Santa Maria presents a more laid-back atmosphere surrounded by agricultural beauty and renowned wine country.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Santa Maria boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct charm.

Downtown Santa Maria

• Vibrant local shops and restaurants

• Frequent events and cultural festivals

Orcutt

• Quieter, suburban feel with parks

• Close proximity to wine tasting trails

Santa Maria Valley

• Renowned for its wineries and vineyards

• Scenic views of rolling hills and orchards

Best Times To Visit Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)'s Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Santa Maria.

Santa Maria Valley Wine Country

Visit on weekdays to enjoy tastings without the weekend crowds.

Historic Santa Maria Inn

Early mornings or weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere to explore.

Santa Maria Fairpark

Attend during mid-week events for fewer crowds and more interaction.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Maria enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters; visiting in spring or fall often provides the most pleasant weather. The temperature and sunny days enhance outdoor activities, making it easier to explore local attractions year-round.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Try the famous Santa Maria-style barbecue at The Hitching Post II, where you can savor tender, grilled tri-tip seasoned with a unique dry rub and cooked over an open flame. This dining experience contrasts with Santa Barbara’s coastal cuisine by offering a hearty, rustic atmosphere and bold flavors that showcase the region's agricultural bounty.

Santa Barbara - Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$9-45

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Santa Maria

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

$9-45

Santa Barbara to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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 journey from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria, covering a distance of 76 miles in just 1 hour and 19 minutes by car. Marvel at the beautiful landscapes and coastal views along the way. 💸 Enjoy a budget-friendly road trip with prices ranging from $13 to $20 for the drive from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria. Indulge in local cuisines, make pit stops at charming towns, and experience the best of Santa Barbara County.

Average price

$13 - $20

🚆 Experience a scenic train journey from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria in just 1 hour and 25 minutes, covering a distance of 58.1 miles. 🚌 Begin your trip with a comfortable bus ride towards San Jose, with the journey taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes. Depart from the Santa Barbara Amtrak station and arrive at the Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop, operated by AmericanStar.

🚌 The direct bus from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop operates every day, departing every three hours. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. 🚌 The bus route covers a distance of approximately 58.1 miles between the two Santa Barbara County cities, offering a cost-effective and efficient means of transportation for travelers.

Departure Point

Santa Barbara station

Arrival Point

Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County).

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The distance between Santa Barbara and Santa Maria is 56 miles. The road distance between the two cities is 76 miles. The typical travel time to drive from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara is 1 hour and 19 minutes. Alternatively, by taking the bus, it takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes to travel from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria is by driving. With a travel time of 1 hour and 19 minutes, driving is not only the quickest option, but it is also the cheapest, costing around $13 to $20 for gas. Another option is taking the bus, which takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. However, driving remains the most convenient and practical choice for this route.

The prices of a bus ticket between Santa Maria and Santa Barbara can range from $9 to $45, depending on the specific bus company, time of travel, and any promotional offers available. It is recommended to check with the different bus companies or online platforms to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, prices may vary depending on factors such as the class of service or if there are any discounts for advance bookings or specific groups of travelers.

To travel from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria without using public transportation, you can drive your own car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 76 miles, and the drive takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes. The cost of fuel for the trip is around $13 to $20, depending on the current gas prices. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route along the way.

To travel from Santa Barbara to Santa Maria without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, and ticket prices range from $9 to $45. There are several bus services available, making it convenient and affordable to travel between the two cities.

Yes, there is a direct bus link between Santa Barbara and Santa Maria. The bus service is operated by Amtrak and departs from Santa Barbara station, arriving at Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, and buses run every four hours, operating every day.

There are numerous lodging options available near Santa Maria with over 64 hotels to choose from. Prices for accommodations in the area start at $59 per night. Visitors to Santa Maria can select from a range of hotels based on their preferences and budget, ensuring a comfortable stay during their visit to the area.