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Santa Clara, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $13: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara: 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.

$13 by trainBest price
386 kmDistance
4h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara 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
7h  3m
Estimated price
$27-100
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
8h  55m
Estimated price
$13-194
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 386 km
Duration: 4h 17m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
7h  54m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$184-543
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  17m
Estimated price
$199-270
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  52m
Estimated price
$271-272
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
$273-274
Company
various
Train
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  44m
Estimated price
$275-276
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Traveling From Santa Clara to Santa Barbara

The journey from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara offers a striking contrast between the tech-savvy atmosphere of Silicon Valley and the picturesque coastal charm of Southern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and preferences.

Downtown
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene
• Close proximity to beaches and attractions
Mesa
• Scenic ocean views and laid-back vibe
• Convenient access to hiking trails
Audobon
• Tranquil residential area surrounded by nature
• Ideal for birdwatching and outdoor activities

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Planning your visits to Santa Barbara's attractions can elevate your experience significantly.

Santa Barbara Zoo
Visit on weekdays, especially in the morning, for fewer crowds.
Stearns Wharf
Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning views and a quieter atmosphere.
Mission Santa Barbara
Midweek visits provide a peaceful experience and avoid weekend tourists.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and fall when the weather is comfortable, enhancing your outdoor adventures and beach experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Visit The Lark for a culinary experience that showcases locally sourced ingredients and seasonally inspired dishes, offering a vibrant atmosphere that contrasts with the tech-oriented dining scene in Santa Clara. Don't miss their charred octopus, which captures the coastal flavor profile and highlights Santa Barbara's proximity to the ocean.

Santa Clara - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara, 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 San Jose Downtown to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
7h 3m
Estimated price
$27-100
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
8h 55m
Estimated price
$13-194

Train from Santa Clara Amtrak to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Burbank Amtrak to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$500-1948
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$80-100

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$100-103

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$100-100
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Other from Santa Clara Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$502-503

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

Traveling between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara 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 Clara to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 297 miles in just over 5 hours. Enjoy the journey through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💵 The cost of driving from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara ranges from $50 to $80, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore California by car. Save on transportation expenses and have the freedom to stop at interesting places en route.
Average price
$50 - $80
🚆 Embark on an exciting journey from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara by train, with a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes. While there is no direct route, you'll transfer at San Jose on this scenic route through California. 🌄 🚆 Enjoy the comfortable ride aboard Amtrak trains as you pass through stunning landscapes and charming towns. The ticket prices for the train journey between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara range from $13 to $194, offering options for various budgets. 🎟️
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
🛫 Flying from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara is a quick and convenient option with United Airlines offering a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara Airport in just 1 hour and 19 minutes. ✈️ The total travel time from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara by plane is approximately 4 hours and 46 minutes, including the time it takes to reach San Francisco Airport from Santa Clara. 💸 Flight prices between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara can range from $184 to $543, giving travelers options to choose based on their budget and preferences for the journey.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara, travelers can embark on a scenic journey with services departing from El Camino & Jefferson and arriving at Santa Barbara Bus Stop. 🌴 The route involves transfers at 2nd & Santa Clara and San Jose Downtown, with the total travel time averaging around 7 hours and 3 minutes. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara can range from $27 to $100, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to travel between these vibrant cities in California. 🎫 Whether it's a weekend getaway or a leisurely trip, the bus journey offers a convenient and affordable way to reach the picturesque destination of Santa Barbara from Santa Clara.
Departure Point
San Jose Downtown station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara is approximately 240 miles by road. By train, it takes around 8 hours and 54 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Santa Clara. Another option is to take a train to Oakland and then fly to Santa Barbara, which typically takes around 4 hours and 22 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes, and by bus, it takes around 7 hours and 3 minutes to travel from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara is by bus, which costs between $27 and $100. However, this option does take the longest time, with a travel duration of approximately 7 hours and 3 minutes. If you are looking for a quicker option, the train and fly combination is the most time-efficient choice, taking approximately 4 hours and 22 minutes. Keep in mind that this option is more expensive, with prices ranging from $210 to $600.
When traveling from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara, the prices for a train ticket range from $13 to $194. Alternatively, if you prefer to take the bus, the prices vary between $27 and $100. These prices may differ based on factors such as the time of travel, the type of ticket purchased, and any discounts that may be available. It is always recommended to check with the transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance is approximately 297 miles, and it takes about 5 hours and 3 minutes to drive from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara. The cost of driving varies, but you can expect to spend around $50 to $80 in gasoline expenses.
The best way to travel from Santa Clara to Santa Barbara without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 3 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $27 to $100. Taking the bus is a convenient and affordable option for traveling between these two cities.
Yes, there are transportation options between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara but there is no direct link. The train journey takes approximately 8 hours and 54 minutes with a transfer in San Jose. Alternatively, the bus journey takes around 7 hours and 3 minutes with transfers in San Jose Downtown. It's important to check the schedules and availability of these services before planning your trip.
The flight duration between Santa Clara and Santa Barbara is typically 1 hour and 13 minutes on a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara Airport. The cost of a flight varies between $174 and $373. It's important to note that prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. There are over 148 hotels available with prices starting at $57 per night. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, you can find something that suits your needs and budget. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.

Trips to Santa Barbara