Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus with FlixBus

Wed, Sep 02
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02

Cheapest price on Sep 02

$24

Average ticket price on Sep 02

$24

Fastest journey on Sep 02

2 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 02

2 h 10 m

Buses on Sep 02

1

Distance

140 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast buses

On Wed, Sep 02, we found 1 buses from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 1 direct services.

On Wed, Sep 02 the direct buses cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .

On Wed, Sep 02 the slowest buses will take 2 h 10 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    9:00 AM2h10
    Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA
    11:10 AMSanta Barbara, Bus station
    $241One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $28 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 2h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, while a train costs an average of $52.

Distance: 86 miles (140 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$28

Average price

Cheapest

$52

Average price

$20

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 34m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 51m

Average total duration

3h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 44m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $28 (€22).

This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:

A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $52 (€42).

The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 4m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 21m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, 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 $28 (€22) compared to roughly $20 (€17) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.28 (€-5.90). The journey takes 2h 4m versus 1h 44m 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.

Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
05:50AM
Arrival Time
06:57PM
Duration
13h07
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$132
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
05:55AM
Arrival Time
06:57PM
Duration
13h02
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$132
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
11:10AM
Duration
2h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:40PM
Arrival Time
08:40PM
Duration
2h00
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:40PM
Arrival Time
09:35PM
Duration
1h55
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$16

Live departures

Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus9:00 AM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA
2h10
11:10 AM Santa Barbara, Bus station0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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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Why should you book Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?

FlixBus operates all buses services from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 2h 4m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.

There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 21:55. The fastest bus covers the 86 miles (140 km) distance in 1h 40m.

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
86 miles (140 km)
Average bus duration
2h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
$16 (€13)
Buses per day
1
Direct buses
1
Fastest bus
1h 40m
First bus
5:00 AM
Last bus
9:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
28 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

Bus providers: FlixBus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with FlixBus for as low as $16 (€13). 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 FlixBus Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$16 (€13)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
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.

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 Art

Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.

  • 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.

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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $28 (€22) ; 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 1h 40m to travel the 86 miles (140 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 9:55 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Santa Barbara, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Los Angeles, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA, Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA, San Fernando, Rinaldi St / Rincon Ave (Greyhound Bus Stop), Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave), CA, Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore, CA, Long Beach, Bus Station (Long Beach Blvd) . When arriving in Santa Barbara, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA, which is located around 0 miles (1 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 day trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Los Angeles, CA is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara

Which Los Angeles, CA station do buses to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?

Buses from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Los Angeles, CA city centre at Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) from Los Angeles city centre

Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) is 1 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4X · 8m · $2
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 12m · $2 · every ~24 min

Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) bus station facilities and services

Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Food court and various dining options available.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi available in main waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs available near main concourse.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station): Station fully accessible with elevators and ramps.

Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / VignesCesar E Chavez / Vignes, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes from Los Angeles city centre

Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes is 1 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

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, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes bus station facilities and services

Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes. ATMs are available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes: The station is accessible to people with disabilities.

Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave)Klump Ave & Magnolia Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91601, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave) from Los Angeles city centre

Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave) is 17 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus94 · 1h 13m · $2 · every ~7 min
94 · 1h 14m · $2 · every ~7 min
94 · 1h 15m · $2 · every ~7 min
SubwayMetro B Line · 49m · $5 · every ~12 min
Metro B Line · 57m · $2 · every ~12 min

Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave) bus station facilities and services

Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave). ATMs are available at Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave): Ramps available for wheelchair access.

Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Santa Barbara, CALos Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus

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