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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $15: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Cruz 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.

$15 - Bus, TrainBest price
356 kmDistance
4h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz 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
Santa Cruz Metro, Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
9h  3m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
9h  42m
Estimated price
$15-147
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 356 km
Duration: 4h 37m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
9h  32m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  37m
Estimated price
$45-75
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  25m
Estimated price
$119-150
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Train
Average Duration
7h  23m
Estimated price
$151-152
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$153-154
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$166-381
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$321-648

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara

This journey from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara offers a scenic transition from the laid-back, surf-centric culture of the former to the sun-kissed beaches and Spanish-inspired architecture of the latter.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Funk Zone
• Vibrant art scene with galleries and murals.
• Trendy wine tasting rooms and cafes abound.
Stearns Wharf
• Historic pier with breathtaking ocean views.
• Fresh seafood restaurants and local shops.
Montecito
• Upscale area known for luxury homes and gardens.
• Quaint boutiques and gourmet eateries line the streets.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy serenity and fewer visitors.
Stearns Wharf
Late afternoon offers stunning sunsets while avoiding midday crowds.
Mission Santa Barbara
Midweek visits provide a quieter atmosphere for exploring this historic site.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild summers and cool winters, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. Spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities, as pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Try the wood-fired pizzas at Lucky Penny, where the combination of local produce and artisanal techniques creates a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from Santa Cruz's coastal casual eateries. The vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on quality ingredients offer a refreshing contrast to your typical dining experiences in Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz - Santa Barbara operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz 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 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$3211-759

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$3211-759
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Salinas to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
7h 46m
Estimated price
$1479-157

Train from Burbank Amtrak to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$458-75

Train from San Jose to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$754-755
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$155-156
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-423-1234

Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$150-1471

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz 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 picturesque road trip from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara, covering approximately 269 miles of beautiful California coastline in just under 4 and a half hours. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of budget-friendly travel options, with car rental prices ranging from $45 to $75 for the journey from Santa Cruz to the vibrant city of Santa Barbara.
Average price
$45 - $75
🛫 Embark on a quick and convenient journey from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara by catching a United Airlines flight from Monterey Airport to Los Angeles Airport. The direct flight takes approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes, whisking you towards your sunny destination.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Despite the lack of a direct bus route, travelers can still journey from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara by making a transfer in San Jose. The total travel time, including transfers, typically lasts around 9 hours and 3 minutes.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara is approximately 221 miles, with a road distance of 269.3 miles. Traveling by bus and train, it takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Santa Cruz. Alternatively, by car, the travel time is around 4 hours and 37 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus, the journey takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara is by taking a bus and train. This option can cost between $15 and $150 and takes approximately 9 hours and 40 minutes. If time is of the essence, driving is the fastest option, taking about 4 hours and 37 minutes and costing between $45 and $75.
The prices of a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara can range from $28 to $100, depending on factors such as the type of service, the time of travel, and the level of comfort. It is recommended to check with different bus service providers to compare prices and availability. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on any ongoing promotions or discounts offered by the bus companies.
To get from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 269 miles. The journey typically takes about 4 hours and 37 minutes by car. The cost of the trip by car can vary between $45 to $75, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes and typically costs between $28 and $100. This mode of transportation allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way, making it a convenient choice for travelers without a car.
Yes, there is a bus link between Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara although it requires transfers. The journey starts at the Santa Cruz Metro Center, transfers at the Watsonville Transit Center and Salinas, and finally arrives at Santa Barbara. The total travel time including transfers is approximately 9 hours and 42 minutes. The bus service is operated by Amtrak.
The flight between Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara typically takes 1 hour and 13 minutes. This is for a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it is usually quite affordable. It is recommended to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels available, you can easily find a place that suits your preferences and budget. Prices start at $57 per night, offering a range of options for every traveler. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, you will have no trouble finding a place to stay near Santa Barbara.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to Santa Barbara