- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
- Cheapest price on Nov 03
- NOK 372
- Average ticket price on Nov 03
- NOK 430
- Fastest journey on Nov 03
- 8 h 37 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 03
- 9 h 49 m
- Buses on Nov 03
- 2
- Distance
- 434 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around NOK 430 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only NOK 372.
Fast buses
On Tue, Nov 03, we found 2 buses from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Nov 03 the direct buses cover the 434 km distance in an average of 9 h 49 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 37 m .
On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest buses will take 11 h 1 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.
3:29 AM 11h01 South San Francisco, CA 2:30 PM Santa Barbara, CA NOK 372 1 One-way 0 transfers5:10 PM 8h37 South San Francisco, CA 1:47 AM Santa Barbara, CA NOK 489 1 One-way 0 transfers
5:10 PM 8h37 South San Francisco, CA 1:47 AM Santa Barbara, CA NOK 489 1 One-way 0 transfers3:29 AM 11h01 South San Francisco, CA 2:30 PM Santa Barbara, CA NOK 372 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Take a bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA and enjoy the approximately 269 miles (434 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 07:35, the last at 22:05.
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 269 miles (434 km) |
First bus 7:35 AM |
Last bus 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The earliest bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:05 PM.
South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:29AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 11h01 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price NOK 372 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:31AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 8h59 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price NOK 372 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price NOK 451 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 01:47AM | Duration 8h37 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price NOK 486 |
Live departures
South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:10 PM South San Francisco, CA | 8h37 | 1:47 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Plan your visit to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, 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 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.
FAQs: Bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from South San Francisco, 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.
Yes, you can take a between South San Francisco, CA and 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA buses use the to Santa Barbara, Bus station station pair. Use this guide to compare South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco
Arrival bus stations in Santa Barbara
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do buses from South San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Buses from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara, Bus station. Santa Barbara, Bus station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
Santa Barbara, Bus stationSanta Barbara, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · NOK 22 · 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 South San Francisco, CA 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 South San Francisco, CA
HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Santa Barbara, CASouth San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA bus
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
