Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus

Thu, Aug 06
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Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $239.

Distance: 170 miles (275 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

$65

Average price

$48

Average price

Cheapest

$283

Average price

14h 15m

Average total duration

13h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 12m

Average total duration

7h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a train with an average price of $48.

This is compared to other travel options from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:

A train is $17 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $65.

A train is $234 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $283.

The fastest way to travel from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by train with an average journey time of 5h 14m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Flight takes on average 7h 12m.

Bus takes on average 13h 45m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Solana Beach, CA 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 Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.

Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
09:55PM
Arrival Time
11:40AM
Duration
13h45
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$65

Compare prices and tickets Solana Beach, CA 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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Aug 06
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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

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Buses from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 13h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $65 but you can travel from only $47 by train.

The earliest bus runs at 04:40, the last at 21:55. The fastest bus covers the 170 miles (275 km) distance in 13h 45m.

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 $47
Distance
170 miles (275 km)
Average bus duration
13h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$65
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
13h 45m
First bus
4:40 AM
Last bus
9:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
28 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 $47

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 Art

Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.

  • 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.

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 Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Solana Beach, CA 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $65 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $65 ; 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 Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 13h 45m to travel the 170 miles (275 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 Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 4:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 9:55 PM.
When departing from Solana Beach, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA, Oceanside . When arriving in Santa Barbara, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Santa Barbara, Bus station, Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, which is located around 3 miles (5 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Santa Barbara, Bus station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Santa Barbara, CA from Solana Beach, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 13h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Solana Beach, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Solana Beach, CA 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 Solana Beach, CA 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 Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare Solana Beach, CA 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 Solana Beach
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara

Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses from Solana Beach, CA arrive at?

Buses from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA most often arrive at Santa Barbara, Bus station. Some services arrive at Isla Vista, UC Santa Barbara (Bus Loop), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Santa Barbara, CA arrival station.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

More options for your journey from Solana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Santa Barbara, CASolana Beach, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus

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