- Must visit
Orange County Museum of Art
Contemporary art museum on the oceanfront with California-focused exhibitions, sculpture garden, and strong modern collections.
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Newport Beach, 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 Newport Beach, CA will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
On Thu, Nov 05, we found 2 buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Newport Beach, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Nov 05 the direct buses cover the 186 km distance in an average of 6 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 55 m .
On Thu, Nov 05 the slowest buses will take 6 h 55 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.

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Take a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Newport Beach, CA and enjoy the approximately 115 miles (186 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 07:25, the last at 23:45.
Plan this route
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Barbara, CA to Newport Beach, CA.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 02:50AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $107 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 05:40AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $44 |
Discover the best of Newport Beach, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Newport Beach, CA trip today.
Contemporary art museum on the oceanfront with California-focused exhibitions, sculpture garden, and strong modern collections.
Local history museum in a 1900s Balboa Island cottage with exhibits on harbor life, island development, and community heritage.
University art museum nearby with rotating exhibitions, California art, and a calm campus setting close to Newport Beach.
Scenic island neighborhood with a waterfront path, compact lanes, bay views, and a relaxed village atmosphere for strolling.
Large coastal preserve with trails, birdwatching, and viewpoints across wetlands. A favorite for walking and nature photography.
Oceanfront state park with blufftop paths, beaches, and easy access to tidepools and coastal scenery in Corona del Mar.
Fresh Pacific oysters served raw or grilled. Newport Harbor and nearby Orange County seafood culture make them a classic coastal starter.
Lightly battered local white fish in tortillas with cabbage and crema. A Southern California coastal staple shaped by nearby Baja influence.
Fresh local fish, often yellowtail or tuna, served raw over rice with soy-based seasoning. Popular across Orange County's surf-side dining scene.
Elegant steak and seafood restaurant at Fashion Island with polished service, prime steaks, and classic cocktails.
Harborside seafood house known for oysters, sushi, and water views. Lively yet polished, it is a dependable Newport Beach classic.
Upscale waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh fish, shellfish, and steaks in a refined coastal setting on the harbor.
Newport Beach is pricier than many US beach cities, with high hotel rates, upscale dining, and limited cheap transit; budget options exist but are fewer.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.
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 Newport Beach, CA.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Newport Beach, 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 Newport Beach, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
