- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian and European works, plus rotating exhibitions in a downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$43
Average price
$43
Fastest journey
6 h 50 m
Average duration
6 h 50 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 302 km distance in an average of 6 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 50 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 6 h 50 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.
2:45 PM6h50San Diego, CA9:35 PMSanta Barbara, CA$431One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM6h50San Diego, CA9:35 PMSanta Barbara, CA$431One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $72.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$41 Average price Cheapest | $49 Average price | $254 Average price | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 19m Average total duration 5h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 31m Average total duration Fastest 5h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $41 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $49 (€40).
A bus is $213 (€174) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $254 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 31m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 48m.
Bus takes on average 5h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, 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 $41 (€33) compared to roughly $52 (€42) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $11 (€9). The journey takes 5h 49m versus 3h 46m 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.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus.
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.
San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Greyhound Mexico | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 16h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $54 |
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:45 PM San Diego, CA | 6h50 | 9:35 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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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Why should you book San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 21:55. The fastest bus covers the 187 miles (302 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 187 miles (302 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 6h 50m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 9:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 49 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: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $37 (€30). 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
5h 30m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
6h 50m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
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
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, known for interactive exhibits and a rooftop experience.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Museum on local history with adobe-era collections, archives and exhibits focused on the city and county.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Historic pier with ocean views, strolling, marine exhibits and easy access to the waterfront.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor lined with shops, historic buildings and public spaces, ideal for walking and people-watching.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Waterfront
Scenic coastal area spanning the harbor and beachfront, popular for walking, biking and sunset views.
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Regional Central Coast barbecue, usually tri-tip grilled over red oak and served with salsa, pinquito beans, garlic bread, and salad. It is one of the area’s most iconic local food traditions.
Uni Pasta
Sea urchin from the Santa Barbara Channel is a local delicacy, prized for its sweet, briny flavor. It often appears in simple pasta dishes that highlight the freshness of the seafood.
Fish Tacos
Fresh local fish in tacos reflects Santa Barbara’s coastal location and strong California-Mexican food culture. They are commonly served grilled or battered with cabbage, salsa, and lime.
The Lark Santa Barbara
Popular New American restaurant in the Funk Zone, known for seasonal Central Coast ingredients and polished but relaxed dining.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Stylish Spanish restaurant known for tapas, paella, and a lively upscale atmosphere near the waterfront.
Brophy Bros. Santa Barbara
Established harbor seafood restaurant popular for clam chowder, oysters, and marina views in a casual setting.
United States Dollar
Santa Barbara is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining near the coast.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for coffee drinks.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for excellent service, USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 for hotel staff as appropriate.
FAQs: Bus from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $37 (€30) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $41 (€33) ; 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 6h 50m to travel the 187 miles (302 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 9:55 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
San Diego
Santa Barbara
The major bus station for departures in San Diego is San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) for your trip from San Diego to Santa Barbara.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara, Bus station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara, Bus station for your trip to Santa Barbara from San Diego.
Santa Barbara, Bus station
information
More options for your journey from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA
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