- Must visit
Orange County Museum of Art
Major contemporary art museum in nearby Costa Mesa, widely visited for its architecture and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$112
Average price
$112
Fastest journey
10 h 3 m
Average duration
10 h 3 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
203 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around $112 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $112.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA without transferring at least 3 times.
6:43 PM10h03Goleta, CA4:46 AMIrvine, CA$1121One-way3 transfers
- 6:43 PM10h03Goleta, CA4:46 AMIrvine, CA$1121One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $43, and a bus costs an average of $44.
Distance: 126 miles (203 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$49 Average price | $44 Average price Cheapest | $29 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 25m Average total duration 6h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 9m Average total duration Fastest 4h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA is a train with an average price of $44 (€36).
This is compared to other travel options from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA:
A train is $6 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average $49 (€40).
The fastest way to travel from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 39m.
Other travel options to Irvine, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Goleta, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Goleta, CA to Irvine, 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.
Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Central Coast Shuttle | Departure Time 08:43AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 8h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator Central Coast Shuttle | Departure Time 06:43PM | Arrival Time 04:46AM | Duration 10h03 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 05:40AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $44 |
Compare prices and tickets Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 05:49, the last at 18:04. The fastest bus covers the 126 miles (203 km) distance in 6h 55m.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 126 miles (203 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 6h 55m |
First bus 5:49 AM |
Last bus 6:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $43 (€35)
Bus providers: Central Coast Shuttle from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CAYou can travel by bus between Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA with Central Coast Shuttle for as low as $43 (€35). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Central Coast Shuttle
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 12m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€86)
Central Coast Shuttle frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Irvine
Things to do in Irvine
Discover the best of Irvine — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine trip today.
- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
University museum focused on California art, with rotating exhibitions and a strong regional perspective.
- Recommended
Pretend City Children’s Museum
Interactive children’s museum with a miniature city designed for hands-on learning and family visits.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Vast public park with sports fields, gardens, art spaces, and the city’s signature balloon attraction.
- Must visit
San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary
Tranquil wetland walking area with birdlife, reflective ponds, and easy trails close to central Irvine.
- Recommended
Bommer Canyon
Scenic open-space preserve with hiking trails, oak woodland, and a more local feel than busier parks.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
A Southern California staple of grilled or fried fish in tortillas with cabbage, salsa, and crema. Irvine locals commonly enjoy it as a casual coastal comfort food.
California Burrito
A regional favorite filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It reflects the Mexican American fast-casual food culture found across Orange County.
- Gluten-free
Poke Bowl
A popular Hawaiian-inspired dish of marinated raw fish over rice with fresh toppings. It is especially common in Irvine because of the city’s broader Pacific Rim food scene.
HiroNori Craft Ramen - Irvine
Popular ramen shop known for rich tonkotsu broth, handmade noodles, and a modern casual atmosphere.
Din Tai Fung Irvine
Well-known Taiwanese restaurant famous for soup dumplings, noodles, and precise service in a polished, lively setting.
North Italia Irvine
Stylish Italian restaurant serving housemade pasta, pizza, and cocktails, suitable for both casual dinners and date nights.
United States Dollar
Irvine is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining, though casual meals are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee jars.
FAQs: Bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Goleta, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA can start from as little as $44 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA is $49 (€40) ; 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 Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA is 6h 55m to travel the 126 miles (203 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 Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 5:49 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 6:04 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA which require at least one change with Central Coast Shuttle. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA, you can count on Central Coast Shuttle for the best way to get you to Irvine, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Goleta, CA and Irvine, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Irvine, CA from Goleta, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Goleta, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Irvine, CA are:
- Orange County Great Park, a large public park offering sports facilities, a carousel, and a giant helium balloon ride for panoramic views
- Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options including a Ferris wheel
- Bommer Canyon, a nature preserve with hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding hills
- Pretend City Children's Museum, an interactive museum designed for children to explore and learn through play
- Irvine Museum, a museum dedicated to the preservation and display of California Impressionist art.
The best things to do in Irvine, CA include:
- Tanaka Farms, a family-friendly farm offering seasonal tours and fresh produce picking
- Irvine Barclay Theatre, a venue offering a variety of performances including music, dance, and theater
- San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, a peaceful place for bird watching and enjoying nature
- K1 Speed, an indoor go-kart racing track for thrill-seekers
- William R. Mason Regional Park, a large park with picnic areas, walking trails, and a lake for paddle boating.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, 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 Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA.
Since neither Goleta, CA nor Irvine, 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 Goleta, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Goleta, CA
More options for your journey from Goleta, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Irvine, CA and Goleta, CA
Most popular bus connections to Irvine, CA
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