- Must visit
The Getty Center
Hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and striking architecture plus sweeping city views.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 19
Cheapest price
$101
Average price
$101
Fastest journey
3 h 50 m
Average duration
4 h 2 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
154 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
8:25 AM3h50Isla Vista, CA12:15 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers- 10:55 AM3h50Isla Vista, CA2:45 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 12:55 PM3h50Isla Vista, CA4:45 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 3:25 PM4h50Isla Vista, CA8:15 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 6:25 PM3h50Isla Vista, CA10:15 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 8:25 AM3h50Isla Vista, CA12:15 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 10:55 AM3h50Isla Vista, CA2:45 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 12:55 PM3h50Isla Vista, CA4:45 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 6:25 PM3h50Isla Vista, CA10:15 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
- 3:25 PM4h50Isla Vista, CA8:15 PMLos Angeles, CA$1011One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $411.
Distance: 95 miles (154 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$27 Average price Cheapest | $35 Average price | $458 Average price | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 1m Average total duration 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 21m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $27 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $7 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $35 (€28).
A bus is $431 (€354) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $458 (€376).
The fastest way to travel from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 21m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 31m.
Train takes on average 3h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Isla Vista, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 02:50AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 10:15AM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 12:15PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Santa Barbara MTD | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $101 |
Live departures
Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses for tomorrow, Sunday, July 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:25 AM Isla Vista, CA | 3h50 | 12:15 PM Los Angeles, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
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Why should you book Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Santa Barbara MTD offer buses services from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Santa Barbara MTD to find the best option for your trip from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 19:26. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (154 km) distance in 1h 50m.
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 95 miles (154 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 1h 50m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 7:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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, Santa Barbara MTD from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA with FlixBus, Santa Barbara MTD for as low as $24 (€19). 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
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
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.
Santa Barbara MTD
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Santa Barbara MTD frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Los Angeles, CA
Things to do in Los Angeles, CA
Discover the best of Los Angeles, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles, CA trip today.
- Must visit
The Broad
Major contemporary art museum in Downtown LA, known for broad collections, special shows, and bold architecture.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
World-class encyclopedic museum on Wilshire Boulevard, famous for diverse collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
Hollywood Boulevard
Legendary boulevard known for the Walk of Fame, theaters, neon, and classic Hollywood atmosphere mixed with tourist energy.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Lively beachside promenade with street performers, Muscle Beach, and easy access to the Venice Boardwalk scene.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Major urban park with trails, the observatory, picnic areas, and some of the best public views in Los Angeles.
Danger Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog grilled on a street cart and topped with peppers, onions, mustard, ketchup, and mayo. A late-night Los Angeles street food classic.
French Dip Sandwich
A French dip sandwich of thin-sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in meat jus. Los Angeles claims the original and locals still debate the best version.
- Gluten-free
Birria Tacos
Double corn tortillas filled with stewed beef, birria broth, onions, and cilantro. A beloved Los Angeles Mexican staple, especially popular from trucks and taquerias.
n/naka
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant serving a seasonal California tasting menu. Refined, intimate, and one of Los Angeles's most respected special-occasion venues.
Sonoratown
Legendary taqueria known for charcoal-grilled carne asada tacos. Casual, fast-paced, and widely considered one of Los Angeles's essential taco stops.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown deli linked to the French dip. Old-school counter service and classic sandwiches in a landmark Los Angeles setting.
United States dollar ($)
Los Angeles is pricier than many U.S. cities for hotels, dining, parking, and rides. Budget options exist, but tourist areas and transport costs raise daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or coffee.
FAQs: Bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $24 (€19) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $27 (€23) ; 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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 1h 50m to travel the 95 miles (154 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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 7:26 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Santa Barbara MTD for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Isla Vista, CA and Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Los Angeles, CA from Isla Vista, CA is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Isla Vista, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- 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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Isla Vista, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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 Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Most Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes. Use this guide to compare Isla Vista, CA and Los Angeles, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Isla Vista
Arrival bus stations in Los Angeles
Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop)
City-centre transport
Getting to Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop) from Isla Vista city centre
Bus11, 24X, 28 · 8m · $2 · every ~11 min
27 · 10m · $2 · every ~4 min
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) from Los Angeles city centre
Bus4X · 8m · $2
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 12m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes from Los Angeles city centre
Bus40, 74 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
33 · 4m · $2 · every ~9 min
D · 11m · $5 · every ~12 min
490, 495, 499, 699, 493, 498, 707 · 13m · $7 · every ~9 min
TramMetro A Line · 10m · $2 · every ~12 min
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 10m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Los Angeles Union STA (E)
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Los Angeles Union STA (E) from Los Angeles city centre
Bus490, 495, 499, 699, 493, 498, 707 · 9m · $2 · every ~9 min
4X · 13m · $1
TramMetro A Line · 8m · $2 · every ~12 min
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 9m · $2 · every ~24 min
More options for your journey from Isla Vista, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and Isla Vista, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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