- 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.
Flights from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 52 times per day, taking around 1h 19m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $191 (€157) but you can travel from only $62 (€51) by bus.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:59. The fastest flight covers the 306 miles (494 km) distance in 1h 12m. January is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 306 miles (494 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $191 (€157) |
Flights per day 52 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 12m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 10:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $62. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $62, and a flight costs an average of $191.
Distance: 306 miles (494 km)
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$306 Average price | $211 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 37m Average total duration 11h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 29m Average total duration 9h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $141 (€117) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $211 (€174).
A bus is $237 (€195) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Davis, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $306 (€252).
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 59m.
Train takes on average 11h 7m.
Compare bus, train, 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.
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
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.
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Davis, 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.

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