- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$65
Fastest journey
1 d 9 h 11 m
Average duration
1 d 9 h 11 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
494 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Davis, 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 Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Davis, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Thu, Aug 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct buses cover the 494 km distance in an average of 1 d 9 h 11 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 9 h 11 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest buses will take 1 d 9 h 11 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:19 AM33h11Davis, CA2:30 PMSanta Barbara, CA$651One-way0 transfers
- 5:19 AM33h11Davis, CA2:30 PMSanta Barbara, CA$651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $63. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, and a flight costs an average of $193.
Distance: 306 miles (494 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$70 Average price Cheapest | $213 Average price | $309 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 29m Average total duration 9h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 37m Average total duration 11h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $70.
This is compared to other travel options from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $143 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $213.
A bus is $239 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $309.
The fastest way to travel from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 19m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 59m.
Train takes on average 11h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Davis, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Davis, 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.
Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:09AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 11h21 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:19AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 11h11 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:09AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 11h21 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:19AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 33h11 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 01:47AM | Duration 11h42 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $93 |
Live departures
Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:19 AM Davis, CA | 33h11 | 2:30 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 9h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $63 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:25, the last at 22:20. The fastest bus covers the 306 miles (494 km) distance in 10h 20m.
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 306 miles (494 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 10h 20m |
First bus 5:25 AM |
Last bus 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 35 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 Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Davis, 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 Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $63 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $70 ; 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 Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 10h 20m to travel the 306 miles (494 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 Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Davis, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Davis, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Davis, 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 Davis, 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 Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Davis, 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 Davis, 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.
More options for your journey from Davis, 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 Davis, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
