- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with strong American, Asian, and European collections in a prominent downtown setting.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, and a flight costs an average of $468.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$62 Average price Cheapest | $519 Average price | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 35m Average total duration 7h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $62 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $457 (€369) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $519 (€419).
The fastest way to travel from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 58m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ontario, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus and flight.
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.
Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $58 |
Compare prices and tickets Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus or flight
Compare bus 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $53 (€43) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:20, the last at 18:45. The fastest bus covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 6h 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 119 miles (192 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 (€43) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 50m |
First bus 3:20 AM |
Last bus 6:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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: Omnitrans from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Omnitrans for as low as $53 (€43). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Omnitrans
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 15m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
Omnitrans frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Santa Barbara
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
- Recommended
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families for interactive exhibits and rooftop activities.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Compact waterfront museum covering regional seafaring history, Channel maritime culture, and local ocean exploration.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Classic waterfront promenade with ocean views, harbor access, and one of the city’s most recognizable settings.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor for walking, shopping, people-watching, and easy access to major attractions.
- Must visit
Lotusland
Celebrated botanical garden estate in Montecito with extraordinary themed gardens; advance reservations are typical.
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Central Coast barbecue tradition featuring oak-grilled beef tri-tip, often served with pinquito beans, salsa, and garlic bread. It is one of the region's most iconic local meals.
Tri-Tip Sandwich
A beloved local sandwich made with sliced Santa Maria-style tri-tip on bread, commonly found at casual grills and roadside spots across the area.
- Gluten-free
Spot Prawns
Seasonal local prawns from the Santa Barbara Channel, prized for their sweetness and delicate texture. They are a standout coastal seafood specialty when available.
Toma Restaurant & Bar Santa Barbara
Respected waterfront-adjacent restaurant specializing in Italian-inspired coastal cuisine, pasta, and polished service.
The Lark Santa Barbara
Well-known New American restaurant in the Funk Zone with stylish interiors, seasonal ingredients, and strong local wine offerings.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Established Spanish restaurant serving paella, tapas, and cocktails in an elegant but energetic downtown setting.
United States Dollar
Santa Barbara is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but most visitors spend more than in many other California cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or tacos.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff, and USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Tipping is expected for service.
FAQs: Bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ontario, 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 Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $53 (€43) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $62 (€50) ; 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 Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 6h 50m to travel the 119 miles (192 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 Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 3:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:45 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA which require at least one change with Omnitrans. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can count on Omnitrans for the best way to get you to Santa Barbara, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Ontario, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Ontario, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ontario, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus and flight.
No, the bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Ontario, 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 Ontario, 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 Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Ontario, 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.
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 Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Ontario
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, Bus station
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Most popular bus connections from Ontario, CA
More options for your journey from Ontario, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
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Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Ontario, CA
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