- Must visit
Oakland Museum of California
Major art museum focused on California history, art, and social impact, with strong collections and a lively modern campus.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30
Cheapest price on Aug 30
$46
Average ticket price on Aug 30
$46
Fastest journey on Aug 30
7 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
7 h 5 m
Buses on Aug 30
1
Distance
441 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast buses
On Sun, Aug 30, we found 1 buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Aug 30 the direct buses cover the 441 km distance in an average of 7 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 5 m .
On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest buses will take 7 h 5 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.
FlixBus11:15 AM7h05Santa Barbara, Bus station6:20 PMOakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA$461One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:15 AM7h05Santa Barbara, Bus station6:20 PMOakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA$461One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $63 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 8h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, while a train costs an average of $100.
Distance: 274 miles (441 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$63 Average price Cheapest | $100 Average price | $66 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 55m Average total duration Fastest 8h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 18m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg 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 Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is a bus with an average price of $63.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA:
A bus is $37 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA costing on average $100.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 8h 25m.
Other travel options to Oakland, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 $63 compared to roughly $66 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $3. The journey takes 8h 25m versus 4h 57m 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.
Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 22h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:58PM | Arrival Time 02:35AM | Duration 8h37 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:47PM | Arrival Time 03:35AM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:47PM | Arrival Time 04:35AM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $50 |
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA buses for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:58 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 8h37 | 2:35 AM Oakland, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:47 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 8h48 | 4:35 AM Oakland, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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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Aug 30
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Why should you book Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $47 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:00, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 274 miles (441 km) distance in 7h 0m.
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 274 miles (441 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 7h 0m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 3 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: FlixBus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA with FlixBus for as low as $47. 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 FlixBus Duration
7h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$47
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.
Complete guide to Oakland, CA
Things to do in Oakland, CA
Discover the best of Oakland, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oakland, CA trip today.
- Recommended
The Black Panther Party Museum
Independent museum preserving Black Panther Party history through photographs, artifacts, and community-centered interpretation in West Oakland.
- Recommended
Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA)
Children's museum and cultural center with hands-on exhibits celebrating Black creativity, history, and family learning experiences.
- Must visit
Lake Merritt
Beloved urban lake ringed by paths, gardens, and skyline views, ideal for walking, birdwatching, and experiencing everyday Oakland life.
- Must visit
Jack London Square
Waterfront promenade and marina district with bay views, sailing activity, and sunset walks near Oakland's western edge.
- Recommended
Joaquin Miller Park
Large hillside park with redwoods, trails, and picnic areas, offering a peaceful escape and classic East Bay outdoor scenery.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Brisket
Smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, reflecting Oakland’s strong barbecue culture shaped by Southern Black migration and longtime neighborhood smokehouses.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Coleslaw
A tangy, mayo-based cabbage side commonly served with Oakland barbecue. It is a staple pairing at local smokehouses and cookouts.
Fried Chicken
Crisp fried chicken often served with waffles or sides, tied to Oakland’s soul food tradition and beloved at classic neighborhood restaurants.
Commis
Refined tasting-menu restaurant highlighting seasonal California ingredients with polished service and an elegant, modern dining room.
Cafe Colucci
Longtime Ethiopian restaurant praised for injera platters, stews, and traditional coffee in a welcoming, community-focused space.
Shan Dong Restaurant
Celebrated Oakland Chinatown destination for handmade noodles and dumplings in a busy, casual setting with strong local following.
United States Dollar ($)
Oakland is moderate for US cities: lodging is often high, but dining and BART or buses are usually cheaper than in San Francisco.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA can start from as little as $47 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is $63 ; 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 Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is 7h 0m to travel the 274 miles (441 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 Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Oakland, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Santa Barbara, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA . When arriving in Oakland, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, Hayward BART Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Barbara, Bus station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Oakland, CA from Santa Barbara, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Oakland, CA are:
- Lake Merritt, a large tidal lagoon offering scenic walking paths and boating activities
- Oakland Museum of California, a museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural sciences of California
- Jack London Square, a waterfront area with dining, shopping, and entertainment options
- Redwood Regional Park, a vast park with hiking trails through towering redwood trees
- Chabot Space and Science Center, an interactive museum with planetarium shows and telescopes for stargazing.
The best things to do in Oakland, CA include:
- Visit the vibrant Temescal Alley, known for its unique shops and eateries
- Explore the historic USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's "Floating White House"
- Enjoy a performance at the Fox Theater, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace
- Discover the diverse flavors at the Oakland First Fridays street festival
- Take a scenic bike ride along the Bay Trail, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Oakland, 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 Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, including pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs. Avoid displaying valuables openly and park in well-lit, secure areas. Scams such as fake ticket sellers or overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers have been reported. Staying alert, using official transportation services, and verifying ticket purchases online can help ensure a safer experience.
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 Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, 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 Oakland
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses to Oakland, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 · $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.
Which Oakland, CA station do buses from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA most often arrive at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. Some services arrive at Hayward BART Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Oakland, CA arrival station.
Oakland, West Oakland BART StationW Oakland BART, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station from Oakland city centre
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station is 2 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:
SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station bus station facilities and services
Oakland, West Oakland BART 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 Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. ATMs are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Station is fully accessible with elevators.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Oakland, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections to Oakland, CA
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