- 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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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a train costs an average of $40.
Distance: 114 miles (185 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$31 Average price Cheapest | $41 Average price | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 50m Average total duration 14h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration Fastest 3h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $31.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $10 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $41.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by train with an average journey time of 3h 51m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, 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.
Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound Mexico | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Live departures
Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Ana, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:20 PM Santa Ana, CA | 14h20 | 11:40 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Ana, 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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Why should you book Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 14h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $31 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 114 miles (185 km) distance in 14h 20m.
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 114 miles (185 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 14h 20m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 28 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 from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Greyhound for as low as $31. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
14h 20m
Cheapest Price
$31
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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $31 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $31 ; 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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 14h 20m to travel the 114 miles (185 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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 11:30 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Santa Barbara, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Ana, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Santa Ana, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) . When arriving in Santa Barbara, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station), 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 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Santa Ana, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Ana, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA for bus company Greyhound.
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 Santa Ana, 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Ana, 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara
Which Santa Ana, CA station do buses to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Ana, CA city centre at Santa Ana, 1000 E Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA.
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station)Santa Ana, 1000 E Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) from Santa Ana city centre
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) is 1 km from Santa Ana city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) bus station facilities and services
Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station) 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 Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station). ATMs are available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station): Bus access is available.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses from Santa Ana, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA most often arrive at Santa Barbara, Bus station. Some services arrive at Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Santa Barbara, CA arrival station.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · 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.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Ana, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA
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