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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Monica 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.

$8 by trainBest price
121 kmDistance
1h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica 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
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  26m
Estimated price
$10-46
Recommended
Company
various
Tram
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$8-84
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 121 km
Duration: 1h 37m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
1h  37m
Estimated price
$16-25
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  1m
Estimated price
$201-456
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Traveling From Santa Monica to Santa Barbara

Your journey from the lively beaches and vibrant scene of Santa Monica to the serene charm and wine country of Santa Barbara offers a remarkable contrast in coastal experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

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

Downtown
• Vibrant dining and shopping scene
• Historical architecture and art galleries
The Funk Zone
• Eclectic mix of wineries and breweries
• Street art and creative studios
Santa Barbara Historic District
• Picturesque Spanish-style buildings
• Close proximity to the Mission and parks

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience of Santa Barbara's highlights.

Santa Barbara Mission
Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and fewer visitors.
Stearns Wharf
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views and a relaxed vibe.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Springtime unveils vibrant blooms; weekdays are generally less crowded.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and local attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

At The Hungry Cat, indulge in their fresh clam chowder, featuring locally sourced seafood that showcases the coastal flavors of Santa Barbara. This dining experience contrasts beautifully with Santa Monica's trendy eateries, as The Hungry Cat emphasizes rustic charm and a focus on seasonal ingredients that reflect the region's culinary heritage.

Santa Monica - Santa Barbara operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
bigbluebus.com

Bus from Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs to Gayley Nb & Strathmore Ns

Average Duration
31m
Estimated price
$1-2

Bus from 4Th Sb & Santa Monica Place to Aviation/Lax

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$1-2
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$7-35
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$8-80

Bus from Van Nuys to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$16-25
Train
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Train from Downtown Santa Monica Station to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$10-101
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
2h 42m
Estimated price
$8-84
Plane
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$180-100

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

Traveling between Santa Monica 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 coastal journey from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, covering a distance of 93 miles in just under an hour and a half. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. 💰 Plan your budget accordingly as the cost of driving from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara ranges between $16 to $25, offering flexibility for different travel preferences. Explore charming seaside towns and make pit stops at local shops and eateries along the way.
Average price
$16 - $25
🚆 Starting from Downtown Santa Monica Station, travelers can take the Metro Los Angeles service to the 7th Street / Metro Center Station to transfer to the Metro B & D Lines, which will eventually lead them to Los Angeles. 🌴 The train journey from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, with a duration of approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes, offers scenic views of Southern California's coastal landscapes and charming towns along the way.
Departure Point
Downtown Santa Monica Station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara station
🛫 Flying from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara is a convenient and quick option, with direct flights taking just 54 minutes. United Airlines provides flights from Los Angeles Airport to Santa Barbara Airport, making the journey easy and efficient.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, travelers can take a bus departing from Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs and arriving in Santa Barbara with a transfer in Los Angeles. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes. 🏖️ The Santa Monica to Santa Barbara bus services are operated by Big Blue Bus and Flixbus USA. Travelers departing from Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs station will arrive at the Santa Barbara Bus Stop station after the 3-hour and 26-minute journey. Prices for the bus ticket range from $10 to $46, offering a budget-friendly travel option.
Departure Point
Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs station
Arrival Point
Santa Barbara Bus Stop station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the schedule for both Big Blue Bus and Flixbus USA, as you'll need to change routes in Los Angeles; you can find the schedules at Big Blue Bus and Flixbus USA.
• Arrive at the Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs station at least 20 minutes early to ensure you have enough time to board and locate your bus, especially since the transfer in Los Angeles can be busy and may require additional navigation.
• Upon arriving at the Santa Barbara Bus Stop, head towards the nearby Santa Barbara downtown area, which is just a 15-minute walk; be sure to grab a bite at the popular Santa Barbara Public Market for a variety of dining options.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Monica and Santa Barbara is approximately 75 miles. By car, it takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, taking the tram and then the train, the travel time is around 4 hours and 40 minutes. Lastly, if you prefer to take the bus, it takes about 3 hours and 26 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Santa Monica.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara is by car. It takes approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes to drive the 75-mile distance. The cost for gas and tolls is estimated to be around $16-$25. This allows for flexibility and the ability to explore other sites along the way. Other transportation options such as taking a tram and train or bus may take longer and potentially be more expensive.
The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and Santa Barbara range from $10 to $46 depending on the type of bus and the time of travel. There may also be discounts available for seniors, students, or advanced bookings. It is advisable to check with the bus operator for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara without public transportation, you can drive or take a taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 93 miles and it takes around 1 hour and 37 minutes to drive. If you choose to drive, be aware of the varying costs of gas and tolls, which can range from $16 to $25.
To travel from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara without a car, you can take the line 18 bus and then transfer to a bus service. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $10 to $50. This option is convenient for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
Yes, there is a link between Santa Monica and Santa Barbara however, there are no direct train or bus routes available. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by car, which takes approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a combination of tram and train, which takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes with transfers involved. There are also bus services available, which take approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes, including transfers.
The flight between Santa Monica and Santa Barbara typically takes 52 minutes. This is the quickest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but it is generally affordable for a short domestic flight.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Santa Barbara. With over 148 hotels to choose from, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Santa Barbara start at $57 per night, offering affordable choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly accommodations, there is something for everyone in Santa Barbara.

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