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

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How to Get from Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Santa Barbara: 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 Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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.

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Traveling From Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) to Santa Barbara

The journey from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara offers a transition from the agricultural charm of the inland valley to the coastal vibrancy of the beach city, showcasing distinct landscapes and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

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

State Street

• Lively shopping and dining hub.

• Close to historic landmarks and theaters.

Santa Barbara Waterfront

• Scenic beaches and ocean views.

• Great for outdoor activities and dining.

Mesa

• Quiet residential area with views.

• Access to hiking trails and parks.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Santa Barbara's top spots.

Santa Barbara Mission

Visit early in the morning during weekdays for fewer crowds and serene views.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Spring months offer blooming flora; mid-week visits are less crowded.

Stearns Wharf

Evenings provide stunning sunsets and a quieter atmosphere for exploration.

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 pleasant for travel throughout the year. The best times to visit are typically in the spring and fall, as you'll find comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

A visit to Santa Barbara isn't complete without savoring the fresh seafood at The Boathouse at Hendry's Beach, where the ocean views elevate your meal. This culinary experience stands in contrast to Santa Maria's barbecue focus, with a menu that highlights the region's rich coastal flavors and locally sourced ingredients.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) - Santa Barbara operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

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

Bus from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$9-45

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$9-45

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

Traveling between Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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 journey from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara, covering a driving distance of 76 miles in just about 1 hour and 19 minutes. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $13 to $20 for the car ride to the charming coastal city of Santa Barbara from Santa Maria.

Average price

$13 - $20

🚉 Traveling by train from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara is a convenient option with multiple routes available. The shortest route takes approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes to cover the 72.3-mile distance. 🚌 The first route involves taking a bus provided by Clean Air Express, departing from Santa Maria Park and Ride and arriving at Anacapa & Carrillo in Santa Barbara in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

🚌 Planning a trip from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara? You can hop on a direct bus operated by Amtrak that will take you from Santa Maria station to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station in approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. 🚌 Ticket prices for the bus ride from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara typically range from $9 to $45, making it an affordable and eco-friendly transportation choice for travelers wanting to experience the beauty of coastal California. Don't miss out on the chance to discover the charms of Santa Barbara with a hassle-free bus trip from Santa Maria.

Departure Point

Santa Maria station

Arrival Point

Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Consider booking your ticket in advance on the Amtrak Thruway service, as prices can range from $9 to $45 and may fluctuate depending on demand; visit their website at amtrak.com for scheduling and online purchase.

• If you're taking the Clean Air Express service instead, check their schedules at cleanairexpress.com as they offer varied routes with the potential for shorter travel times of around 1 hour 20 minutes to Santa Barbara.

• Upon arriving at the Santa Barbara Amtrak Station, familiarize yourself with the layout to easily access nearby transit options or local attractions; there’s a helpful station map available at the station or directly on the Amtrak website.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Maria and Santa Barbara is approximately 56 miles or 75.8 miles by car. It typically takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes to drive from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara. If traveling by bus, the typical travel time is about 1 hour and 25 minutes. These travel times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes to drive the 56 miles between the two cities. The cost of driving is estimated to be around $13 to $20, which includes fuel and any tolls that may be required. Taking the bus is also an option, but it takes slightly longer with a travel time of 1 hour and 25 minutes.

The prices for traveling between Santa Maria and Santa Barbara via bus range from $9 to $45. The exact price depends on factors such as the date and time of travel, as well as the type of bus and the amenities it offers. It is recommended to check with the bus operators or online booking platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information. Other modes of transportation, such as driving, may incur additional costs such as fuel, tolls, and parking fees.

To get from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 76 miles, and it takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes to drive. The cost of driving can vary, with prices for gas and tolls averaging between $13 and $20. Driving allows for flexibility in travel time and the ability to explore other attractions along the way.

To travel from Santa Maria to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes and costs between $9 and $45 depending on the type of ticket and the bus company. The bus route provides a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.

Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Maria and Santa Barbara. Amtrak operates a bus service that departs from Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop and arrives in Santa Barbara. The bus service operates every day, with departures every four hours, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct option for traveling between the two cities.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels available, travelers can choose from a range of budget-friendly to luxury accommodations. Prices start at $57, making it possible to find a suitable hotel regardless of one's budget. It is recommended to search for hotels online or use travel websites to compare prices and find the best deals for a comfortable stay near Santa Barbara.