San Diego, CA SAN to Santa Barbara, CA SBA flight with United

Sun, Sep 20
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Journey information

Overview: San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight

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Icon of flight

Flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 30 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at €52 but you can travel from only €25 by bus.

There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 21:10. The fastest flight covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 1h 12m. 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 €25
Distance
187 miles (302 km)
Average flight duration
3h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
€52
Flights per day
30
Direct flights
1
Fastest flight
1h 12m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
9:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
1 day
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 €25

The cheapest and fastest flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

€152

Average ticket price on Sep 20

€430

Fastest journey on Sep 20

1 h 17 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

2 h 42 m

Flights on Sep 20

37

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 €430 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €152.

Fast flights

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 37 flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 2 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct flights cover the 302 km distance in an average of 2 h 42 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 17 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the longest flights will take 4 h 15 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.

  • Alaska AirlinesAS3112
    1:30 PM1h17
    San Diego International Airport
    2:47 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    1521One-way
    0 transfers
  • Alaska AirlinesAS3113
    10:30 PM1h20
    San Diego International Airport
    11:50 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    1521One-way
    0 transfers
  • UnitedUA2234 · UA5619
    5:00 PM2h42
    San Diego International Airport
    7:42 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    1801One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2175 · UA5619
    2:24 PM5h18
    San Diego International Airport
    7:42 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    1801One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2309 · UA2141
    11:19 AM6h20
    San Diego International Airport
    5:39 PMSanta Barbara Airport
    1801One-way
    1 transfer

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 an average ticket price of €43 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €43, while a flight costs an average of €467.

Distance: 187 miles (302 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€467

Average price

€52

Average price

€43

Average price

Cheapest

€43

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 49m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

6h 16m

Average total duration

5h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 39m

Average total duration

6h 9m

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

United

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 €43.

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

A bus is €9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average €52.

A bus is €424 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average €467.

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 49m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 46m.

Bus takes on average 6h 9m.

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, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
UnitedUA2667 · UA2199 · UA59366:15 AM San Diego International Airport
11h30
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2667 · UA52716:15 AM San Diego International Airport
11h02
5:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2667 · UA2630 · UA17996:15 AM San Diego International Airport
13h56
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2667 · UA1936 · UA17996:15 AM San Diego International Airport
13h56
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2667 · UA433 · UA54646:15 AM San Diego International Airport
9h05
3:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2667 · UA2199 · UA54646:15 AM San Diego International Airport
9h05
3:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1241 · UA6716:30 AM San Diego International Airport
6h29
12:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1241 · UA24796:30 AM San Diego International Airport
14h33
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA17997:10 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
13h01
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA59367:10 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
10h35
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA15787:10 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h47
11:57 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA54647:10 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h10
3:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA1506 · UA52717:10 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
10h07
5:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2274 · UA15787:43 AM San Diego International Airport
4h14
11:57 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2274 · UA1506 · UA52717:43 AM San Diego International Airport
9h34
5:17 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
UnitedUA1791 · UA2610 · UA52719:35 AM San Diego International Airport
7h42
5:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1791 · UA1506 · UA52719:35 AM San Diego International Airport
7h42
5:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2793 · UA247911:00 AM San Diego International Airport
10h03
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2309 · UA593611:19 AM San Diego International Airport
6h26
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2309 · UA546411:19 AM San Diego International Airport
4h01
3:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1565 · UA247912:37 PM San Diego International Airport
8h26
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1835 · UA593612:41 PM San Diego International Airport
5h04
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5515 · UA247912:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h18
9:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1763 · UA59361:24 PM San Diego International Airport
4h21
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1763 · UA17991:24 PM San Diego International Airport
6h47
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS31121:30 PM San Diego International Airport
1h17
2:47 PM Santa Barbara Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA5599 · UA17991:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h26
8:11 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA59361:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h00
5:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2175 · UA52712:24 PM San Diego International Airport
2h53
5:17 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
UnitedUA682 · UA6714:11 PM San Diego International Airport
20h48
12:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2234 · UA58935:00 PM San Diego International Airport
20h44
1:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS311310:30 PM San Diego International Airport
1h20
11:50 PM Santa Barbara Airport0 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
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

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: 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.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as €52 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is €467 ; 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 12m 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, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
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 · €5 · every ~10 min
923, 992 · 13m · €5 · 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+1 760-431-4646Accessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to McClellan-Palomar Airport from San Diego city centre

TrainPacific Surfliner · 2h 11m · €17 · every ~2 min
BusAmtrak Thruway Connecting Service · 2h 3m · €17
101 · 3h 3m · €23 · 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.

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

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