- 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, bus, and flight for Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $294 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 22m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $294, while a flight costs an average of $583.
Distance: 920 miles (1482 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$372 Average price | $294 Average price Cheapest | $583 Average price | $228 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
42h 38m Average total duration 42h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 32h 47m Average total duration 32h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 22m Average total duration Fastest 5h 22m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 17h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA is a train with an average price of $294.
This is compared to other travel options from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A train is $78 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $372.
A train is $289 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $583.
The fastest way to travel from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 22m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 32h 17m.
Bus takes on average 42h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Seattle, WA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, 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 $372 compared to roughly $228 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-143.70. The journey takes 42h 8m versus 17h 10m 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.
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.
Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 36h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $173 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:20PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 50h35 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $402 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 39h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $272 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 50h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $407 |
Live departures
Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10:50 PM Seattle, WA | 39h50 | 2:40 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Seattle, WA 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 42h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $235 but you can travel from only $216 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 09:55, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 920 miles (1482 km) distance in 40h 55m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $216
Distance 920 miles (1482 km) |
Average bus duration 42h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $235 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 40h 55m |
First bus 9:55 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $216
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CAYou can travel by bus between Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $216. 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
40h 55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$402
FlixBus frequency
3 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
42h 45m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$235
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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $235 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA is $372 ; 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA is 40h 55m to travel the 920 miles (1482 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 9:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Seattle, WA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station), Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington), WA, Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2 . When arriving in Santa Barbara, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Seattle, WA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 40h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Seattle, WA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station) to Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop) station pair. Use this guide to compare Seattle, WA 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 Seattle
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara
Which Seattle, WA station do buses to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Buses from Seattle, WA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station). The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Seattle, WA city centre at 530 S Royal Brougham Way, Seattle, WA 98134, USA.
Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station)530 S Royal Brougham Way, Seattle, WA 98134, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station) from Seattle city centre
Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station) is 1 km from Seattle city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus124 · 4m · $4 · every ~7 min
545, 570 · 7m · $4 · every ~9 min
Dungeness Line · 13m · $22
Dungeness Line · 22m · $22
Tram1 Line · 8m · $4 · every ~14 min
Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station) bus station facilities and services
Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station) 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 eateries within walking distance.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station). ATMs are available at Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Seattle, S Royal Brougham Way / 6th Avenue South (Bus Station): The station is accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.
Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington)12th Ave NE & NE Campus Pkwy, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington) from Seattle city centre
Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington) is 5 km from Seattle city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70 · 24m · $4 · every ~11 min
FlixBus 2110, FlixBus 2115, FlixBus 2114, FlixBus N2111 · 26m · $1
49 · 28m · $4 · every ~8 min
70 · 28m · $4 · every ~11 min
Tram1 Line, 2 Line · 20m · $4 · every ~29 min
1 Line, 2 Line · 22m · $7 · every ~29 min
Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington) bus station facilities and services
Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington) 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 Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington). ATMs are available at Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Seattle, Northeast Campus Parkway / 12th Avenue NE (University of Washington): Bus station is wheelchair accessible.
Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2Sea-Tac Airport, SeaTac, WA 98158, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2 from Seattle city centre
Bus124 · 20m · $4
Dungeness Line · 39m · $27
570 · 41m · $4 · every ~1 min
Dungeness Line · 56m · $28
Tram1 Line · 44m · $4 · every ~14 min
1 Line · 45m · $4 · every ~14 min
ShuttleI-5 Corridor Southbound, Anacortes Southbound · 25m · $9
Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2 bus station facilities and services
Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2 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 Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2. ATMs are available at Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Seattle, SeaTac Airport Terminal - Bay 2: Accessible services available.
More options for your journey from Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA
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