Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus with FlixBus

Thu, Aug 06
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$51

Average price

$156

Fastest journey

7 h 11 m

Average duration

13 h 3 m

Buses per day

5

Distance

123 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $156 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak5910 AMTRAK · 785 Pacific Surfliner
    2:45 PM7h11
    Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
    9:56 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
    $511One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak719 Gold Runner · 4119 AMTRAK · 4770 AMTRAK
    4:02 PM14h28
    Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
    6:30 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
    $1771One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak701 Gold Runner · 4101 AMTRAK · 6241 AMTRAK
    6:58 AM14h57
    Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
    9:55 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
    $1771One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak701 Gold Runner · 4101 AMTRAK · 6241 AMTRAK
    6:58 AM14h42
    Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
    9:40 PMSanta Barbara, CA
    $1881One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak719 Gold Runner · 4119 AMTRAK · 4770 AMTRAK
    4:02 PM13h58
    Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
    6:00 AMSanta Barbara, CA
    $1881One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 52m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $52, and a bus costs an average of $36.

Distance: 76 miles (123 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$72

Average price

$54

Average price

Cheapest

$30

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 39m

Average total duration

5h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 20m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a train with an average price of $54.

This is compared to other travel options from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:

A train is $18 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $72.

The fastest way to travel from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 52m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 9m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bakersfield, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
06:58AM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
14h42
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$177
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:55AM
Arrival Time
08:40PM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$110
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:00PM
Arrival Time
06:10PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Tue, Sun
Cheapest price
$88
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
09:56PM
Duration
7h11
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
04:02PM
Arrival Time
06:30AM
Duration
14h28
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$177
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
09:45PM
Arrival Time
04:56AM
Duration
7h11
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
10:45PM
Arrival Time
05:56AM
Duration
7h11
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
11:15PM
Arrival Time
05:56AM
Duration
6h41
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$49

Live departures

Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak9:45 PM Bakersfield, CA
7h11
4:56 AM Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12

Why should you book Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 04:35, the last at 22:20. The fastest bus covers the 76 miles (123 km) distance in 5h 40m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
76 miles (123 km)
Average bus duration
3h 52m
Cheapest ticket price
$36
Buses per day
2
Fastest bus
5h 40m
First bus
4:35 AM
Last bus
10:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $36. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 45m
Cheapest Price
$96
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

Greyhound

About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
$36
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.

Complete guide to Santa Barbara, CA

Things to do in Santa Barbara, CA

Discover the best of Santa Barbara, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.

  • Recommended

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.

US Dollar ($)

Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.

FAQs: Bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $36 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $72 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 5h 40m to travel the 76 miles (123 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 4:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Santa Barbara, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bakersfield, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Bakersfield, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA, Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park), CA . When arriving in Santa Barbara, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Santa Barbara, Bus station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Bakersfield, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bakersfield, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Santa Barbara, CA are:
  • Santa Barbara Mission, a historic Spanish mission known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens
  • Stearns Wharf, a popular pier offering shops, restaurants, and scenic ocean views
  • Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a 78-acre garden showcasing California native plants and picturesque landscapes
  • Santa Barbara Zoo, a family-friendly attraction featuring diverse animal exhibits and interactive experiences
  • Lotusland, a unique botanical garden with exotic plants and themed gardens.
The best things to do in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • State Street, a vibrant downtown area filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options
  • Explore the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from around the world
  • Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards and excellent wines
  • Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and city
  • Visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which highlights the region's rich maritime history.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depends on the bus companies:
  • Greyhound
    • You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Bakersfield, CA nor Santa Barbara, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Santa Barbara, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like State Street and the waterfront. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use authorized transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare Bakersfield, CA and Santa Barbara, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Bakersfield
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara

Which Bakersfield, CA station do buses to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?

Buses from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bakersfield, CA city centre at Bakersfield Amtrak, 16th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USA.
Bakersfield, Amtrak TerminalBakersfield Amtrak, 16th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal from Bakersfield city centre

TRUE

Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal bus station facilities and services

Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal. ATMs are available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal: Wheelchair accessible with assistance.

Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park)S H St & McKee Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93307, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park) from Bakersfield city centre

Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park) is 11 km from Bakersfield city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus130, 145 · 26m · $2
145, 130 · 33m · $2

Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park) bus station facilities and services

Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park). ATMs are available at Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park): Limited accessibility for disabled passengers.

More options for your journey from Bakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Bakersfield, CA

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Santa Barbara, CABakersfield, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus

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