Salt Lake City, UT, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $49: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$49 by trainBest price

1259 kmDistance

4h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara

Traveling from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara offers a delightful contrast between the breathtaking mountains and high desert landscapes of Utah and the serene beaches and vibrant coastal culture of California.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

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

Fiesta Distrito

• Known for vibrant festivals and local arts scene.

• Great selection of restaurants and shops.

Milpas Street

• Offers eclectic dining options from around the world.

• Features unique boutiques and murals.

East Beach

• Famous for sunbathing and beach volleyball.

• Close to scenic parks and walking paths.

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Timing your visits to Santa Barbara’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Stearns Wharf

Visit early in the morning for fewer tourists and stunning sunrise views.

Santa Barbara Mission

Late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and beautiful natural lighting.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Exploring during weekdays helps avoid weekend crowds and enjoy tranquility.

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Barbara enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Visiting during spring or fall can provide the best weather conditions, enhancing your outdoor experiences as temperatures are comfortable and crowds are thinner.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

For a taste of Santa Barbara's coastal charm, try the fresh seafood at Brophy Bros., where their clam chowder and fish tacos stand out with vibrant flavors and locally sourced ingredients. This dining experience contrasts sharply with Salt Lake City's fare, offering a laid-back atmosphere and ocean views that elevate your meal beyond just the food.

Salt Lake City - Santa Barbara operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

delta.com

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$2119-490

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Los Angeles Airport

Average Duration

2h 7m

Estimated price

$3482-3486

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Burbank Airport

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$2116-3484

Website

aa.com

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration

4h 41m

Estimated price

$3487-3488

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Los Angeles Airport

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$2116-3488

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration

4h 15m

Estimated price

$2118-21130

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Los Angeles Airport

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$3480-3481

Plane from Salt Lake City Airport to Burbank Airport

Average Duration

1h 58m

Estimated price

$3482-3483

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Salt Lake City to Sacramento

Average Duration

15h 43m

Estimated price

$4930-4950

Train from Sacramento to Santa Barbara

Average Duration

11h 24m

Estimated price

$3970-1064

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 208-656-8824

Website

saltlakeexpress.com

Bus from Salt Lake City Airport to Cedar City

Average Duration

4h 35m

Estimated price

$2113-39710

Bus from Cedar City to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration

3h 5m

Estimated price

$3970-1065

Bus from Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop to Santa Barbara

Average Duration

9h 55m

Estimated price

$0-0

Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara, spanning 782 miles of diverse landscapes and stunning scenery. 🌞 Enjoy a leisurely drive of approximately 12 hours and 9 minutes, passing through charming towns, rolling hills, and coastal vistas along the way. 🏖️ The cost of this memorable journey ranges from $140 to $210, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure from Utah to California.

Average price

$140 - $210

🌊 The train ride from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara spans approximately 28 hours and offers passengers a chance to witness the scenic beauty of California along the way. With a distance of 1,172 miles to cover, the journey promises a blend of relaxation and exploration. 🎫 Prices for the train journey between Salt Lake City and Santa Barbara can range from $49 to $397, providing travelers with options to suit their budget and preferences. Despite the longer travel time, the experience of traveling by train can be a unique and memorable way to reach the sunny shores of Santa Barbara.

Departure Point

Salt Lake City station

Arrival Point

Santa Barbara station

🛫 Flying from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara is a convenient and quick journey, with a direct flight taking only 2 hours and 3 minutes. Airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines provide options for this route. 🌊 Once you arrive in Santa Barbara Airport, it will take approximately 4 hours and 36 minutes from Salt Lake City. The scenic coastal city offers a relaxing and beautiful destination for visitors to explore. 💸 Flights between Santa Barbara and Salt Lake City can range in price from $211 to $348, providing travelers with various options to fit their budget and schedule. With multiple airlines to choose from, booking a flight to Santa Barbara is made easy for your next getaway.

Departure Point

Salt Lake City Airport

Arrival Point

Santa Barbara Airport

🚌 Starting from Downtown Salt Lake, you will embark on a 21-hour bus journey to Santa Barbara there is no direct route, the trip will take you through various stops including Salt Lake City Airport, Cedar City, and Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop. 🏖️ Finally, after approximately 21 hours of travel time, you will arrive at the Santa Barbara station. This trip, operated by Salt Lake Express and Amtrak, offers a convenient and cost-effective way to reach your destination on the beautiful California coast.

Departure Point

Salt Lake City Airport station

Arrival Point

Santa Barbara station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara.

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The distance between Salt Lake City and Santa Barbara is 615 miles. By various modes of transportation, the typical travel times vary: by train, it takes approximately 28 hours and 7 minutes, by flying to Los Angeles and then taking a bus, it takes around 6 hours and 45 minutes, by plane it takes about 4 hours and 36 minutes. If opting to drive, it takes approximately 12 hours and 9 minutes to reach Salt Lake City from Santa Barbara, and by bus, it takes around 21 hours and 5 minutes to reach Santa Barbara from Salt Lake City.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $45 to $400 and a travel time of 28 hours and 7 minutes. However, the most time-efficient option is to fly, taking only 4 hours and 36 minutes with ticket prices between $210 and $350. Therefore, if you prioritize saving money, taking the train would be the best choice, but if time is of the essence, flying would be the optimal option.

The prices for a train journey between Salt Lake City and Santa Barbara range from $49 to $397, depending on factors such as the time of booking and class of service chosen. Additional costs may also apply for other modes of transport such as flying or taking a bus. It is recommended to compare prices and book tickets in advance to secure the best deal for your travel budget.

To travel from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara without using public transportation, your best option would be to drive. The road distance is around 782 miles, and it typically takes about 12 hours and 9 minutes to drive directly between the two cities. The cost of driving from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara ranges from $140 to $210, depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This mode of transportation allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route along the way.

To travel from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara without a car, the best option is to take a bus and a train, which takes 17 hours and costs between $120 to $260. Alternatively, flying is a quicker option, taking only 4 hours and 36 minutes with costs ranging from $210 to $350. You could also choose to take a bus, which has a travel time of 21 hours and 5 minutes. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 28 hours and costs between $45 to $400.

There is no direct train link between Salt Lake City and Santa Barbara. The journey typically involves transferring in Sacramento and takes around 28 hours. Similarly, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, with a journey involving transfers at Salt Lake City Airport, Cedar City, and Las Vegas Amtrak Bus Stop taking approximately 21 hours and 5 minutes. Travelers looking to go between Salt Lake City and Santa Barbara may find it more convenient to opt for other modes of transportation or consider connecting flights to reduce travel time.

The quickest direct flight from Salt Lake City Airport to Santa Barbara Airport typically takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. The cost of a flight between Salt Lake City and Santa Barbara can range from $211 to $348, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It's recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals on flights between these two destinations.

There are 209+ hotels available in Santa Barbara, with prices starting at $63 per night. Some popular areas to stay in Santa Barbara include downtown, near the beach, or in the nearby wine country. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in Santa Barbara. Additionally, many hotels offer stunning ocean views and convenient access to the city's attractions.

Salt Lake City, UT, USA to Santa Barbara, CA, USA from $49: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

Best Times To Visit Santa Barbara's Attractions

Santa Barbara Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Santa Barbara

Salt Lake City - Santa Barbara operators

Salt Lake City to Santa Barbara: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Salt Lake City

Trips to Santa Barbara

Popular routes