- 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 Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- €83
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- €83
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 1 d 1 h 40 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 1 d 1 h 40 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 1
- Distance
- 620 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chico, 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 Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around €83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €83.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
1:00 PM 25h40 Chico, CA 2:40 PM Santa Barbara, CA €83 1 One-way 2 transfers
1:00 PM 25h40 Chico, CA 2:40 PM Santa Barbara, CA €83 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Take a bus from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA and enjoy the approximately 385 miles (620 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 04:12, the last at 22:20.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €83
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance385 miles (620 km)
- First bus4:12 AM
- Last bus10:20 PM
- Cheapest MonthOct
- Cheapest DaySun
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DaySun
- Least Busy DaySun
- Best time to book21 days
Explore this journey
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from €83
Frequently asked questions about your Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The earliest bus from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 4:12 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €115 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €154 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 25h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price €83 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €87 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €86 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €115 |
Live departures
Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 3:25 PM Chico, CA | 11h50 | 3:15 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:55 PM Chico, CA | 18h35 | 1:30 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Plan your visit to Santa Barbara, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Chico, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chico, 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chico, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Chico, CA
Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Chico, CA
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