- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
Orange County’s leading contemporary art museum, presenting rotating exhibitions and acclaimed modern artists near UC Irvine.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $34
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $34
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 14 h 1 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 14 h 1 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 1
- Distance
- 192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around $34 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
2:45 PM 14h01 Santa Barbara, CA 4:46 AM Irvine, CA $34 1 One-way 2 transfers
2:45 PM 14h01 Santa Barbara, CA 4:46 AM Irvine, CA $34 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:49, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 3h 40m.
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
- Distance119 miles (192 km)
- Average bus duration3h 55m
- Cheapest ticket price$34
- Buses per day2
- Fastest bus3h 40m
- First bus5:49 AM
- Last bus11:45 PM
- Cheapest MonthOct
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DayWed
- Least Busy DayMon
- 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA can start from as little as $34 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is $57 ; 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 5:49 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 04:46AM | Duration 14h01 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $47 |
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA buses for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:45 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 6h55 | 4:40 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 6h55 | 5:40 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, November 3 | |||||
| 2:45 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 14h01 | 4:46 AM Irvine, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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
3h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$34
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Irvine, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Irvine, CA
Things to do in Irvine, CA
Discover the best of Irvine, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine, CA trip today.
- Recommended
University Art Gallery at UC Irvine
University art museum featuring exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, with thought-provoking programs and free admission.
- Recommended
Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Historic farm site with interpretive exhibits, original structures, and programs that bring Orange County’s agricultural past to life.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Major civic park with trails, sports areas, art spaces, and the iconic balloon, popular with both visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Irvine Spectrum Center
Lakeside shopping and entertainment district with landscaped plazas and a lively pedestrian setting day and night.
- Recommended
Aldrich Park
Circular park at the heart of UC Irvine with mature trees and paths, ideal for walking, picnics, and campus atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a Southern California staple: battered or grilled fish in corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and salsa. They reflect the region’s Baja and coastal influence.
California Roll
California rolls were popularized in Southern California sushi culture. Crab, avocado, and cucumber make them approachable and iconic to the region’s Japanese influence.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a modern California café classic. Fresh avocado on artisan bread showcases the state’s produce culture and everyday brunch habits.
Habuya Okinawan Dining
Established Japanese restaurant in Diamond Jamboree known for quality sushi, izakaya dishes, and a polished yet comfortable setting.
North Italia
Well-known upscale-casual venue serving seasonal Californian cuisine. Stylish room and dependable service make it a strong fine dining option.
85C Bakery Cafe
Highly regarded Taiwanese bakery café famous for sea salt coffee, breads, and desserts. Casual, busy, and representative of Irvine’s café culture.
US Dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is limited, so visitors often need taxis or rental cars, raising daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
Plan your visit to Irvine, 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 Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, 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 Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a bus and train.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Santa Barbara
Arrival bus stations in Irvine
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses to Irvine, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leave from Santa Barbara, Bus station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at Santa Barbara, CA, USA.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular buses to and from Irvine, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections to Irvine, CA
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