- 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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The cheapest and fastest buses from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$48
Fastest journey
8 h 37 m
Average duration
9 h 49 m
Buses per day
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 $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave South San Francisco, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Tue, Aug 04, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 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, Aug 04 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 AM11h01South San Francisco, CA2:30 PMSanta Barbara, CA$421One-way0 transfers- 5:10 PM8h37South San Francisco, CA1:47 AMSanta Barbara, CA$551One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM8h37South San Francisco, CA1:47 AMSanta Barbara, CA$551One-way0 transfers
- 3:29 AM11h01South San Francisco, CA2:30 PMSanta Barbara, CA$421One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 8h 42m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:35, the last at 22:05. The fastest bus covers the 269 miles (434 km) distance in 6h 20m.
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) |
Average bus duration 8h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Buses per day 10 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 20m |
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
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 $42 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:31AM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 8h59 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 01:47AM | Duration 8h37 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
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, August 2. 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 | |
| Monday, August 3 | |||||
| 3:29 AM South San Francisco, CA | 11h01 | 2:30 PM 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.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $42 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $49 (€40) ; 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 South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 6h 20m to travel the 269 miles (434 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 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between South San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to 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.
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 San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street 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
Santa Barbara, Bus station
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, Bus station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
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
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