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Santa Barbara, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $16: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica: 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.

$16 - DriveBest price
92.4 milesDistance
1h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica 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
3h  1m
Estimated price
$11-45
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$7-77
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 92.4 miles
Duration: 1h 36m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$8-82
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  36m
Estimated price
$16-25
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$74-87
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$201-452
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Traveling From Santa Barbara to Santa Monica

Your journey from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica will take you through a scenic landscape that transitions from serene coastal beauty to the vibrant energy of a bustling beach city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.

Ocean Park
• Close to stunning beaches and parks.
• Vibrant local arts and dining scene.
Downtown Santa Monica
• Home to the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
• Great shopping and entertainment options.
North of Montana
• Upscale homes and quiet streets.
• Proximity to beautiful parks and schools.

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

To make the most of your Santa Monica experience, timing can enhance your visit to its attractions.

Santa Monica Pier
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy the rides with fewer crowds.
Third Street Promenade
Afternoons on weekdays offer a quieter shopping experience.
Palisades Park
Early mornings provide stunning views and peaceful walks.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. The best times to visit are in spring and fall, when the weather is comfortable and crowds are smaller, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Monica

Try the Korean BBQ at Hanjip, where the vibrant atmosphere and interactive grilling experience set it apart from Santa Barbara's more laid-back dining scene. The bold flavors and use of local ingredients create a culinary adventure that reflects Santa Monica's diverse culinary landscape.

Santa Barbara - Santa Monica operators

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

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

Bus from Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$9-45

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

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$60-80

Bus from Aviation/Lax to 4Th Nb & Santa Monica Ns

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$1-2

Bus from Aviation/Lax to 4Th Nb & Colorado Fs

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1-2
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
centralcoastshuttle.com

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

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$60-80
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
bigbluebus.com

Bus from Aviation/Lax to 4Th Nb & Santa Monica Ns

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$1-2

Bus from Aviation/Lax to 4Th Nb & Colorado Fs

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1-2
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$4-80

Train from Santa Barbara to Van Nuys

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
$3-75
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$180-400
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Other from Van Nuys / Keswick to Westwood / Weyburn

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$2-2

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

Traveling between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica 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 picturesque journey from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica, covering 92 miles of stunning California coastline. Enjoy the scenic drive that takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. 🌴 Discover the diverse landscapes as you make your way south, with prices for this road trip adventure ranging from $16 to $25. Take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush landscapes on the other.
Average price
$16 - $25
🚆 Traveling from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica by train involves a scenic route with transfers. The journey, lasting approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes, offers a convenient way to explore Southern California. 💰 Prices for the train ride between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica can range from $8 to $82. With a total distance of 121 miles, this train journey presents an affordable and efficient way to navigate between these two vibrant coastal cities.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station
🛫 Flying from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is a quick and convenient way to travel, with the shortest flight time being just 58 minutes on a direct flight.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica, travelers can take a bus operated by Flixbus USA with 2 transfers, making the journey approximately 3 hours and 1 minute. 🚍 Route 1 covers a distance of 96.6 miles and requires 2 transfers. The first step is a bus towards Carpinteria, followed by a bus towards Los Angeles International Airport, and finally, a bus towards Downtown Santa Monica. 🚏 The total travel time for this route is 4 hours and 16 minutes, with different agencies operating each leg of the journey. Travelers can expect varying prices ranging from $11 to $45 for a bus ticket between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica.
Departure Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is by driving. The approximate cost of this trip would be around $16 to $25, depending on gas prices and tolls. The journey takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes, which makes it a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is by driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 94 miles and can be covered in about 1 hour and 36 minutes. The cost of gas for the journey is estimated to be around $16 to $25, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices. Taking the highway offers a direct route and allows for a quicker travel time compared to other transportation options.
The distance from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is approximately 75 miles. If you were to travel by road, the distance would be 92.4 miles. It is important to note that road distances may vary depending on the route taken.
The most convenient way to travel from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica without a car is by taking the bus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and the ticket prices range from $10 to $45 depending on the bus company and time of travel. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, offering multiple departure times throughout the day. It is advisable to check the schedules and fares in advance and plan accordingly for a smooth journey.
The travel time from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is approximately 3 hours, including transfers. The exact duration may vary depending on traffic conditions and the chosen mode of transportation. It is recommended to plan ahead and allow extra time for unforeseen delays. It is also advisable to check for any road closures or construction updates prior to the journey to ensure a smooth trip.
There are numerous lodging options available near Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels to choose from, travelers can find accommodations to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $87 per night, providing a range of choices for visitors. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, there is something for everyone in Santa Monica.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica. The distance between the two cities is about 92 miles, and it typically takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes to drive, depending on traffic conditions. It's a straightforward drive along the scenic California coast on Highway 101 and Highway 1.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica. However, you can take a bus from the Santa Barbara Bus Stop to Gayley Sb & Strathmore Fs, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Lincoln Sb & Santa Monica Ns. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours.
You can catch the bus from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica at the Santa Barbara Bus Stop station. The bus service is operated by Flixbus USA, so be sure to check their website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on schedules and ticket prices. Make sure to arrive at the station early to ensure you don't miss your bus.
The bus from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica arrives at Los Angeles station. This is the final stop for the bus route. It is a convenient location in Los Angeles, offering easy access to various attractions and transportation options. From there, travelers can easily explore Santa Monica and other parts of the city.
Currently, there are no direct flights available between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica. However, United Airlines offers flights from Santa Barbara Airport to Los Angeles Airport, which is the closest airport to Santa Monica. From there, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation to reach Santa Monica, which is about 15 miles away. Make sure to check with the airline for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is by taking a direct flight from Santa Barbara Airport to Los Angeles Airport. This flight typically takes around 55 minutes. United Airlines offers flights along this route, providing convenient and efficient travel options for passengers. Upon arrival at Los Angeles Airport, you can easily reach Santa Monica via taxi or rideshare service.
The flight from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is a short one, taking only 55 minutes. The quickest option is to take a direct flight from Santa Barbara Airport to Los Angeles Airport. However, it is important to note that both cities are relatively close to each other, and driving or taking a train might also be convenient and time-efficient alternatives to consider.
Trains from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica arrive at Los Angeles Union Station. From there, travelers can take the Metro Rail Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station, which is the final stop. The journey from Los Angeles Union Station to Downtown Santa Monica Station takes approximately 51 minutes.
There is no direct train between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica. However, there are alternative options available. You can take a train from Santa Barbara to Union Station in Los Angeles, then transfer to the Metro B & D Lines and travel to 7th Street / Metro Center Station. From there, you can transfer to the Metro A & E Lines which will take you to Downtown Santa Monica Station. The entire journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours.
To catch the train from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica you will need to go to the Santa Barbara train station. This is where the Amtrak train services depart from. The station is located at 209 State Street, Santa Barbara 93101. Make sure to check the train schedule and arrive at the station in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
The cost of a train from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica can range from $8 to $82. The price variation depends on factors such as the type of train service, the class of seating, and the time of day you choose to travel. It is advisable to check for updated fares and schedules on the train operator's website or contact their customer service for more accurate pricing.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica can range from $11 to $45. The price may vary depending on factors such as the type of bus, time of travel, and any discounts available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare their prices to find the best deal for your journey.
The cost of driving from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica is approximately $16 to $25 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. This estimate includes the cost of fuel for the journey, which is around 86 miles and takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes. It is important to note that these prices may vary based on individual factors such as vehicle efficiency and current gasoline rates.

Trips from Santa Barbara

Trips to Santa Monica