- 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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Journey information
Overview: San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight
USAUSA
Flights from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 38 times per day, taking around 1h 14m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at €101 but you can travel from only €35 by bus.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:50, the last at 23:30. The fastest flight covers the 277 miles (446 km) distance in 1h 16m. 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 €35
Distance 277 miles (446 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price €101 |
Flights per day 38 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 16m |
First flight 12:50 AM |
Last flight 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 €35
The cheapest and fastest flights from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
€235
Average price
€595
Fastest journey
1 h 22 m
Average duration
1 h 25 m
Flights per day
61
Distance
446 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from 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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around €595 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €235.
Fast flights
Of the 61 flights that leave San Francisco, CA for Santa Barbara, CA onSat, Aug 01, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct flights cover the 446 km distance in an average of 1 h 25 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 22 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the longest flights will take 1 h 27 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.
UA157810:29 AM1h23San Francisco International Airport11:52 AMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers- UA54641:50 PM1h27San Francisco International Airport3:17 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA28669:23 PM1h22San Francisco International Airport10:45 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA58624:10 PM1h27San Francisco International Airport5:37 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA59626:16 PM1h27San Francisco International Airport7:43 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA28669:23 PM1h22San Francisco International Airport10:45 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA157810:29 AM1h23San Francisco International Airport11:52 AMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA54641:50 PM1h27San Francisco International Airport3:17 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA58624:10 PM1h27San Francisco International Airport5:37 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
- UA59626:16 PM1h27San Francisco International Airport7:43 PMSanta Barbara Airport€2351One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €35, and a flight costs an average of €101.
Distance: 277 miles (446 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Train |
|---|---|---|
€240 Average price | €62 Average price Cheapest | €77 Average price |
4h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration 8h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 14m Average total duration 9h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of €62.
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is €14 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average €77.
A bus is €177 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average €240.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 54m.
Train takes on average 9h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flight times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:35 PM San Francisco, CA | 1h26 | 5:01 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:35 PM San Francisco, CA | 1h26 | 6:01 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:26 PM San Francisco, CA | 1h27 | 12:53 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 1 | |||||
| UA1479 · UA2479 | 5:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 15h59 | 8:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1479 · UA671 | 5:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 8h02 | 1:02 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
 AA6404 · AA4927 | 5:50 AM San Francisco International Airport | 12h27 | 6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA4993 · AA6404 | 5:50 AM San Francisco International Airport | 5h58 | 11:48 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
AA6294+ AA1994+AA4927 | 6:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 12h17 | 6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 2 transfers | |
| AA6294+AA1994 · AA1731 | 6:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 15h58 | 9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 2 transfers | |
| AA1668+AA4927 · AA6294 | 6:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 12h17 | 6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA2127 · UA5460 | 6:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 3h17 | 9:17 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AA6294+AA1668 · AA1731 | 6:00 AM San Francisco International Airport | 15h58 | 9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA1758 · UA671 | 6:15 AM San Francisco International Airport | 6h47 | 1:02 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1758 · UA2479 | 6:15 AM San Francisco International Airport | 14h44 | 8:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1 transfer | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, 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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Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights with Omio?
United operates all flights services from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio vs United?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare United with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Why book with Omio over Kayak, Skyscanner or Trip?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Airlines: United from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CAFind the best flights between San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Omio's travel partners United from €35. We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
United
About
United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest Price
€101
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.
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: San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as €101 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is €240 ; 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 1h 16m to travel the 277 miles (446 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct flights a day from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with United. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can count on United for the best way to get you to Santa Barbara, CA. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA generally leave from San Francisco International Airport and arrive in Santa Barbara Airport.San Francisco International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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 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 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 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights use the San Francisco International Airport to Santa Barbara Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, 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 Francisco
Arrival airports in Santa Barbara
Which San Francisco, CA airport do flights to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Flights from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart from San Francisco International Airport. The airport is 1 miles (2 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at San Francisco, CA 94128, USA.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)San Francisco, CA 94128, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco International Airport from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco International Airport is 1 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus292, 397 · 57m · €3 · every ~6 min
SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 27m · €9 · every ~21 min
Yellow-S, Red-S · 29m · €9 · every ~15 min
San Francisco International Airport airport facilities and services
San Francisco International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco International Airport: Elevators, ramps, toilets.
Which Santa Barbara, CA airport do flights from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Flights from San Francisco, 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 · €4
12X, 11, 6 · 43m · €4 · 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA
HomeFlightsFlights in USAFlight Schedules to Santa Barbara, CASan Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA Flights
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