- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- $53
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- $66
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 7 h 55 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 8 h 49 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 4
- Distance
- 302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus1:50 PM 8h55 Santa Barbara, Bus station 10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center $53 1 One-way 1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus
1:50 PM 8h25 Santa Barbara, Bus station 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA $70 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus+
1:50 PM 10h00 Santa Barbara, Bus station 11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA $70 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus · FlixBus
1:50 PM 7h55 Santa Barbara, Bus station 9:45 PM La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA $71 1 One-way 1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus
1:50 PM 7h55 Santa Barbara, Bus station 9:45 PM La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA $71 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus · FlixBus
1:50 PM 8h25 Santa Barbara, Bus station 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA $70 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus · FlixBus
1:50 PM 8h55 Santa Barbara, Bus station 10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center $53 1 One-way 1 transfer - FlixBus+
1:50 PM 10h00 Santa Barbara, Bus station 11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA $70 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 21:55. The fastest bus covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 5h 50m.
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
- Distance187 miles (302 km)
- Average bus duration6h 13m
- Cheapest ticket price$34
- Buses per day3
- Fastest bus5h 50m
- First bus3:50 AM
- Last bus9:55 PM
- Cheapest MonthAug
- Cheapest DayThu
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DayThu
- Least Busy DayMon
- Best time to book14 days
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 San Diego, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $34 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is $61 ; 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 San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 9:55 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:19AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 11h16 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:19AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 11h16 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:50AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:19PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 11h16 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $60 |
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ | 1:50 PM Santa Barbara, Bus station | 10h00 | 11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:50 PM Santa Barbara, Bus station | 8h25 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:50 PM Santa Barbara, Bus station | 8h55 | 10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
 11 Coast Starlight · 5818 Connecting Bus | 6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 11h16 | 5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
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 San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
- 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus and Greyhound. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus and Greyhound. 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
6h 0m
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.
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 Greyhound Duration
5h 50m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$34
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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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.
- 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 San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range 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 or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
Plan your visit to San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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 San Diego, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the Santa Barbara, Bus station to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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.
Which San Diego, CA station do buses from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). Some services arrive at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)Congress St, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $2
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) bus station facilities and services
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several dining options nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). ATMs are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Wheelchair accessible routes available.
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) from San Diego city centre
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) bus station facilities and services
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several dining options are in the area.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). ATMs are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Accessible for persons with disabilities.
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit CenterSan Ysidro Station, San Diego, CA 92173, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $3
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center bus station facilities and services
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Bus stations for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Check bus stations information for Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Santa Barbara, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Barbara, Bus station . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Barbara, Bus station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), located 6 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Diego, CA
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