Carlsbad, CA CLD to Santa Barbara, CA SBA flight with United

Sat, Aug 29
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Journey information

Overview: Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight

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Flights from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 31 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at CHF166 but you can travel from only CHF23 by bus.

There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 20:45. The fastest flight covers the 160 miles (258 km) distance in 1h 10m. June is the cheapest month to fly.

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
Bus from CHF23
Distance
160 miles (258 km)
Average flight duration
3h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF166
Flights per day
31
Direct flights
1
Fastest flight
1h 10m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
8:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
14 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
Bus from CHF23

The cheapest and fastest flights from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29

Cheapest price on Aug 29

CHF176

Average ticket price on Aug 29

CHF448

Fastest journey on Aug 29

2 h 54 m

Average journey duration on Aug 29

3 h 54 m

Flights on Aug 29

35

Distance

258 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Carlsbad, 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 Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around CHF448 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF176.

Fast flights

It's difficult to get from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.

  • UnitedUA2175 · UA4796
    2:24 PM5h30
    San Diego International Airport
    7:54 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    CHF1761One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2274 · UA1578
    7:15 AM4h42
    San Diego International Airport
    11:57 AMSanta Barbara Airport
    CHF1761One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2309 · UA5936
    11:17 AM6h28
    San Diego International Airport
    5:45 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    CHF1761One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2234 · UA4796
    5:00 PM2h54
    San Diego International Airport
    7:54 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    CHF1761One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA1835 · UA5936
    12:41 PM5h04
    San Diego International Airport
    5:45 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    CHF1761One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of CHF47 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 28m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of CHF47, while a flight costs an average of CHF476.

Distance: 160 miles (258 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Driving

CHF476

Average price

CHF47

Average price

Cheapest

CHF37

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 48m

Average total duration

3h 48m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

5h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 7m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

United

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of CHF33.

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

A bus is CHF14 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average CHF47.

A bus is CHF443 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average CHF476.

The fastest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 48m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 58m.

Bus takes on average 5h 0m.

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

Live departures

Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
UnitedUA2274 · UA15787:15 AM San Diego International Airport
4h42
11:57 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA59367:30 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
10h15
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA15787:30 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h27
11:57 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA54647:30 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h50
3:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA1164 · UA58937:30 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h14
1:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5520 · UA24798:40 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
12h23
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2476 · UA24798:45 AM San Diego International Airport
12h18
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2793 · UA247911:00 AM San Diego International Airport
10h03
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1565 · UA247912:33 PM San Diego International Airport
8h30
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5515 · UA24791:04 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h59
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1763 · UA17991:24 PM San Diego International Airport
6h47
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA1754 · UA47961:46 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h10
9:56 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5599 · UA28661:46 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h59
10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA17991:46 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h25
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA1427 · UA47961:46 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h10
9:56 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5599 · UA2282 · UA47961:46 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h10
9:56 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5599 · UA59361:46 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
3h59
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2175 · UA47962:24 PM San Diego International Airport
7h32
9:56 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2175 · UA2019 · UA17992:24 PM San Diego International Airport
5h47
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2117 · UA17993:56 PM San Diego International Airport
4h15
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2117 · UA1427 · UA47963:56 PM San Diego International Airport
6h00
9:56 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2117 · UA28663:56 PM San Diego International Airport
6h49
10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2234 · UA2681 · UA28665:00 PM San Diego International Airport
5h45
10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2234 · UA47965:00 PM San Diego International Airport
4h56
9:56 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1302 · UA28666:28 PM San Diego International Airport
4h17
10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2667 · UA47966:20 AM San Diego International Airport
13h34
7:54 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2045 · UA24796:30 AM San Diego International Airport
14h33
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2045 · UA6716:30 AM San Diego International Airport
6h29
12:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Carlsbad, 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 29
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Aug 31
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Sep 01
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Sep 04

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: Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by flight. 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 flight, 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 plane tickets from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as CHF166 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is CHF476 ; 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 plane from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 1h 10m to travel the 160 miles (258 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 8:45 PM.
Flights from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA generally leave from San Diego International Airport and arrive in Santa Barbara Airport.San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) away from Carlsbad, CA city centre and Santa Barbara Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Carlsbad, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Carlsbad, 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.
There is no time difference between Carlsbad, CA and Santa Barbara, CA.
The best events to attend in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • Santa Barbara International Film Festival, a prestigious event showcasing independent films and attracting filmmakers from around the world
  • Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a vibrant celebration of Santa Barbara's rich cultural heritage with parades, music, and traditional food
  • Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival, an annual festival celebrating the local fishing industry with fresh seafood tastings and family-friendly activities.
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 holidays to experience in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • Independence Day, vibrant fireworks and festive celebrations along the coast
  • Labor Day, pleasant weather perfect for beach activities and local events
  • Memorial Day, a great time for outdoor adventures with fewer crowds.
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.
The best season to visit Santa Barbara, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Santa Barbara, CA is during April-October.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 airports

Popular airports from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights use the San Diego International Airport to Santa Barbara Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Carlsbad, CA and Santa Barbara, CA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in Carlsbad
Arrival airports in Santa Barbara

Which Santa Barbara, CA airport do flights from Carlsbad, CA arrive at?

Flights from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara Airport. Santa Barbara Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA)500 James Fowler Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Barbara Airport from Santa Barbara city centre

Santa Barbara Airport is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus88, 89 · 40m · CHF4
12X, 11, 6 · 43m · CHF4 · every ~2 min
11 · 46m · CHF2 · every ~4 min

Santa Barbara Airport airport facilities and services

Santa Barbara Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurants available, including The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Costa Terraza

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located near the baggage claim area.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Barbara Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Santa Barbara Airport: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Airport: Ramps, assistance.

More options for your journey from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

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