- 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
13 h 5 m
Average duration
13 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
490 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.
+
FlixBus10:05 PM13h05Sacramento, Bus Terminal11:10 AMSanta Barbara, Bus station$781One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus10:05 PM13h05Sacramento, Bus Terminal11:10 AMSanta Barbara, Bus station$781One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 10h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $63 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:10, the last at 22:20. The fastest bus covers the 304 miles (490 km) distance in 9h 45m.
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 304 miles (490 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 9h 45m |
First bus 5:10 AM |
Last bus 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 5 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
Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:03AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 11h27 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:03AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 11h27 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:03AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 33h27 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:48AM | Arrival Time 06:57PM | Duration 12h09 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $133 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:53AM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 11h37 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $165 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:48PM | Arrival Time 01:47AM | Duration 11h59 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:03PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 13h27 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:53PM | Arrival Time 04:55AM | Duration 10h02 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $78 |
Live departures
Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 11 Coast Starlight · 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 6:48 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 12h09 | 6:57 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 733 Capitol Corridor · 6287 AMTRAK | 9:53 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 11h37 | 9:30 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 3812 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5612 AMTRAK | 10:30 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 9h45 | 8:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 747 Capitol Corridor · 4770 AMTRAK | 5:03 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 13h27 | 6:30 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 749 Capitol Corridor · 4770 AMTRAK | 6:53 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 11h37 | 6:30 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 10:05 PM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 13h05 | 11:10 AM Santa Barbara, Bus station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $63. 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
12h 35m
Cheapest Price
$77
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.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 15m
Cheapest Price
$136
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $63 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $75 ; 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 9h 45m to travel the 304 miles (490 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can count on Greyhound, 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 Sacramento, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Sacramento, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- 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 Greyhound, 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the Sacramento, Bus Terminal to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare Sacramento, 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 Sacramento
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara
Sacramento, Bus Terminal
City-centre transport
Getting to Sacramento, Bus Terminal from Sacramento city centre
Bus142 · 15m · $2 · every ~2 min
42B · 19m · $4 · every ~3 min
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service · 21h 20m · $5
Santa Barbara, Bus station
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
More options for your journey from Sacramento, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA
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