- 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $28
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $30
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 1 h 45 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 1 h 45 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 2
- Distance
- 130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
Fast buses
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 2 buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 130 km distance in an average of 1 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 1 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.
8:55 PM 1h45 San Luis Obispo, CA 10:40 PM Santa Barbara, CA $28 1 One-way 0 transfers7:05 PM 1h45 San Luis Obispo, CA 8:50 PM Santa Barbara, CA $31 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:55 PM 1h45 San Luis Obispo, CA 10:40 PM Santa Barbara, CA $28 1 One-way 0 transfers7:05 PM 1h45 San Luis Obispo, CA 8:50 PM Santa Barbara, CA $31 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 1h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:39, the last at 19:25. The fastest bus covers the 80 miles (130 km) distance in 1h 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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance80 miles (130 km)
- Average bus duration1h 54m
- Cheapest ticket price$18
- Buses per day1
- Direct buses1
- Fastest bus1h 45m
- First bus6:39 AM
- Last bus7:25 PM
- Cheapest MonthApr
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DaySat
- Least Busy DayFri
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $18 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $30 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:39 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:25 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:11AM | Arrival Time 08:39AM | Duration 2h28 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:12PM | Arrival Time 02:47PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:17PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 2h33 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Live departures
San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 3974 Connecting Bus | 6:11 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 2h28 | 8:39 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:00 PM San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum), CA | 1h45 | 1:45 PM Santa Barbara, Bus station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3986 NA | 12:12 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 2h35 | 2:47 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4794 Connecting Bus · 3984 Connecting Bus | 3:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 3h20 | 6:50 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 3984 Connecting Bus | 4:17 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 2h33 | 6:50 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Bus companies
Bus companies from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$18
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between San Luis Obispo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
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.
Plan your visit to Santa Barbara, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
FAQs: Bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara
Which San Luis Obispo, CA station do buses to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Luis Obispo, CA city centre at 1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA.
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum)1940 Santa Barbara Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) from San Luis Obispo city centre
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) is 1 km from San Luis Obispo city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3A · 7m · $3 · every ~2 min
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) bus station facilities and services
San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum) 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 San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum). ATMs are available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum): Basic accessibility features available.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses from San Luis Obispo, CA arrive at?
Buses from San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara, Bus station. Santa Barbara, Bus station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $3 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara, Bus station bus station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, Bus station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located inside the station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, Bus station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, Bus station: Wheelchair accessible routes available.
Bus stations for San Luis Obispo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Check bus stations information for San Luis Obispo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara Ave / High St (San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum), 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 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from San Luis Obispo, CA
Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA
Most popular bus connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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