- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$108
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$108
Fastest journey on Sep 19
12 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
12 h 5 m
Buses on Sep 19
1
Distance
448 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $108.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.
+
FlixBus11:05 PM12h05Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA11:10 AMSanta Barbara, Bus station$1081One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus11:05 PM12h05Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA11:10 AMSanta Barbara, Bus station$1081One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $78 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $78, while a flight costs an average of $803.
Distance: 278 miles (448 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$78 Average price Cheapest | $149 Average price | $803 Average price | $66 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 40m Average total duration 7h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 48m Average total duration 9h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration Fastest 4h 7m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $78.
This is compared to other travel options from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $71 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $149.
A bus is $725 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $803.
The fastest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 7m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 10m.
Train takes on average 9h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $78 compared to roughly $66 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.25. The journey takes 7h 10m versus 5h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:39AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 11h51 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:39AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 9h51 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $147 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:41AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 31h49 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:41AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 31h49 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $147 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:18PM | Arrival Time 01:57AM | Duration 9h39 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 01:47AM | Duration 9h12 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:18PM | Arrival Time 02:47AM | Duration 9h29 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $147 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 12h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $108 |
Compare prices and tickets Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $78 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:44, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 278 miles (448 km) distance in 7h 10m.
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 278 miles (448 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 7h 10m |
First bus 6:44 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 2 days |
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
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 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.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
- Must visit
Cabrillo Boulevard
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Harbor
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Uni
Fresh sea urchin roe landed from the Santa Barbara Channel. Briny, sweet, and prized because the region is one of California's best-known uni sources.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Barbareño
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
The Lark
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Brophy Bros.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
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 Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berkeley, 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $78 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $78 ; 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 Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 7h 10m to travel the 278 miles (448 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 Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:44 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) 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 Berkeley, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the Berkeley, Crescent Lawn (UC Berkeley) to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare Berkeley, 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 Berkeley
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara
Berkeley, Crescent Lawn (UC Berkeley)
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses from Berkeley, CA arrive at?
Buses from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara, Bus station. Santa Barbara, Bus station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara, Bus station bus station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, Bus station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located inside the station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, Bus station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Wheelchair accessible routes available.
Most popular bus connections from Berkeley, CA
More options for your journey from Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA
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