- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
3 h 15 m
Average duration
3 h 28 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
162 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Paso Robles, 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Paso Robles, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 162 km distance in an average of 3 h 28 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 3 h 45 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.
3:15 AM3h15Paso Robles, CA6:30 AMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers- 9:40 AM3h45Paso Robles, CA1:25 PMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
- 12:55 PM3h25Paso Robles, CA4:20 PMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
- 3:15 AM3h15Paso Robles, CA6:30 AMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
- 12:55 PM3h25Paso Robles, CA4:20 PMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
- 9:40 AM3h45Paso Robles, CA1:25 PMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $52, and a bus costs an average of $70.
Distance: 100 miles (162 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 40m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a train with an average price of $59.
This is compared to other travel options from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A train is $19 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $78.
The fastest way to travel from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 10m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Paso Robles, 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 Paso Robles, 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.
Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:57PM | Arrival Time 04:15AM | Duration 7h18 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:57PM | Arrival Time 05:40AM | Duration 7h43 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $81 |
Live departures
Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:57 PM Paso Robles, CA | 7h43 | 5:40 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 3:15 AM Paso Robles, CA | 3h15 | 6:30 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:40 AM Paso Robles, CA | 3h45 | 1:25 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:55 PM Paso Robles, CA | 3h25 | 4:20 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 Paso Robles, 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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Aug 05
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 but you can travel from only $52 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 06:39, the last at 18:45. The fastest bus covers the 100 miles (162 km) distance in 7h 18m.
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 $52
Distance 100 miles (162 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 7h 18m |
First bus 6:39 AM |
Last bus 6:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 77 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 $52
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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Paso Robles, 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $70 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $78 ; 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 7h 18m to travel the 100 miles (162 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:39 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:45 PM.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Paso Robles, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 18m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Paso Robles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
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 Paso Robles, 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Paso Robles, 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 Paso Robles, 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 Paso Robles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
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Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Paso Robles, CA
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