- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian and European works, plus rotating exhibitions in a downtown setting.
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
Journey information
Overview: San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight
USAUSA
Flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 30 times per day, taking around 5h 31m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 21:10. The fastest flight covers the 187 miles (302 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 $37 (€30)
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average flight duration 5h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€59) |
Flights per day 30 |
Fastest flight 1h 10m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 9:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Bus from $37 (€30)
The cheapest and fastest flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 27
Cheapest price
$118
Average price
$218
Fastest journey
3 h 59 m
Average duration
5 h 37 m
Flights per day
5
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $118.
Fast flights
Of the 5 flights that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Barbara, CA onSat, Jun 27, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 27 the direct flights cover the 302 km distance in an average of 5 h 37 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .
On Sat, Jun 27 the longest flights will take 8 h 18 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.
3:37 AM3h59San Diego, CA7:36 AMSanta Barbara, CA$1181One-way0 transfers- 2:10 AM5h42San Diego, CA7:52 AMSanta Barbara, CA$1331One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 PM5h49San Diego, CA7:04 PMSanta Barbara, CA$2361One-way0 transfers
- 2:40 AM4h18San Diego, CA6:58 AMSanta Barbara, CA$2871One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 PM8h18San Diego, CA5:13 AMSanta Barbara, CA$3131One-way0 transfers
- 3:37 AM3h59San Diego, CA7:36 AMSanta Barbara, CA$1181One-way0 transfers
- 2:40 AM4h18San Diego, CA6:58 AMSanta Barbara, CA$2871One-way0 transfers
- 2:10 AM5h42San Diego, CA7:52 AMSanta Barbara, CA$1331One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 PM5h49San Diego, CA7:04 PMSanta Barbara, CA$2361One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 PM8h18San Diego, CA5:13 AMSanta Barbara, CA$3131One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $72.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$254 Average price | $49 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 31m Average total duration Fastest 5h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 19m Average total duration 5h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $41 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $49 (€40).
A bus is $213 (€174) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $254 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 31m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 48m.
Bus takes on average 5h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UA1763 · UA5721 | 1:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 6h03 | 7:42 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1763 · UA2866 | 1:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h06 | 10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5599 · UA2866 | 1:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 8h51 | 10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5599 · UA5721 | 1:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 5h48 | 7:42 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA682 · UA671 | 4:07 PM San Diego International Airport | 20h55 | 1:02 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2117 · UA2866 | 4:09 PM San Diego International Airport | 6h36 | 10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1302 · UA2866 | 6:27 PM San Diego International Airport | 4h18 | 10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 2:10 AM San Diego, CA | 5h42 | 7:52 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:40 AM San Diego, CA | 4h18 | 6:58 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| UA5636 · UA4796 | 8:32 PM San Diego International Airport | 3h12 | 11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5636 · UA5460 | 8:32 PM San Diego International Airport | 12h45 | 9:17 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 3:37 AM San Diego, CA | 3h59 | 7:36 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
 AS2175 | 10:32 PM San Diego International Airport | 1h12 | 11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 1:15 PM San Diego, CA | 5h49 | 7:04 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Diego, 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Complete guide to Santa Barbara
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
- Recommended
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families, known for interactive exhibits and a rooftop experience.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Museum on local history with adobe-era collections, archives and exhibits focused on the city and county.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Historic pier with ocean views, strolling, marine exhibits and easy access to the waterfront.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor lined with shops, historic buildings and public spaces, ideal for walking and people-watching.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Waterfront
Scenic coastal area spanning the harbor and beachfront, popular for walking, biking and sunset views.
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Regional Central Coast barbecue, usually tri-tip grilled over red oak and served with salsa, pinquito beans, garlic bread, and salad. It is one of the area’s most iconic local food traditions.
Uni Pasta
Sea urchin from the Santa Barbara Channel is a local delicacy, prized for its sweet, briny flavor. It often appears in simple pasta dishes that highlight the freshness of the seafood.
Fish Tacos
Fresh local fish in tacos reflects Santa Barbara’s coastal location and strong California-Mexican food culture. They are commonly served grilled or battered with cabbage, salsa, and lime.
The Lark Santa Barbara
Popular New American restaurant in the Funk Zone, known for seasonal Central Coast ingredients and polished but relaxed dining.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Stylish Spanish restaurant known for tapas, paella, and a lively upscale atmosphere near the waterfront.
Brophy Bros. Santa Barbara
Established harbor seafood restaurant popular for clam chowder, oysters, and marina views in a casual setting.
United States Dollar
Santa Barbara is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining near the coast.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for coffee drinks.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for excellent service, USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 for hotel staff as appropriate.
FAQs: San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, 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.
Cheap plane tickets from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $72 (€59) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $254 (€208) ; 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 1h 10m to travel the 187 miles (302 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 9:10 PM.
Flights from San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights use the San Diego International Airport to Santa Barbara Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in San Diego
Arrival airports in Santa Barbara
Which San Diego, CA airport do flights to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart from San Diego International Airport. The airport is 2 miles (4 km) from San Diego, CA city centre at 3225 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.
San Diego International Airport (SAN)3225 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego International Airport from San Diego city centre
San Diego International Airport is 4 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus923, 992 · 12m · $6 · every ~10 min
923, 992 · 13m · $6 · every ~10 min
San Diego International Airport airport facilities and services
San Diego International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at San Diego International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance..
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)2198 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA+1 760-431-4646
City-centre transport
Getting to McClellan-Palomar Airport from San Diego city centre
TrainPacific Surfliner · 2h 11m · $21 · every ~2 min
BusAmtrak Thruway Connecting Service · 2h 3m · $21
101 · 3h 3m · $28 · every ~4 min
McClellan-Palomar Airport airport facilities and services
McClellan-Palomar Airport has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at McClellan-Palomar Airport: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Which Santa Barbara, CA airport do flights from San Diego, CA arrive at?
Flights from San Diego, 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, USA
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 · $5
12X, 11, 6 · 43m · $5 · every ~2 min
11 · 46m · $2 · 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA
HomeFlightsFlights in USAFlight Schedules to Santa Barbara, CASan Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Flights
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.
