San Francisco, CA SFO to Santa Barbara, CA SBA flight with United

Sat, Jan 31
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United
Sky West Airlines
Ryanair
Vueling Airlines
KM Malta Airlines
1,000+ travel companies
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Sky West Airlines
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Vueling Airlines
KM Malta Airlines
1,000+ travel companies
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Journey information

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

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of flight

Flights from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 16 times per day, taking around 1h 12m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $86 (€68) but you can travel from only $40 (€32) by bus.

There are 3 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:00. The fastest flight covers the 277 miles (446 km) distance in 1h 14m. July 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 $40 (€32)
Distance
277 miles (446 km)
Average flight duration
1h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$86 (€68)
Flights per day
16
Direct flights
3
Fastest flight
1h 14m
Cheapest month to travel
July
First flight
05:00
Last flight
23:00
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 $40 (€32)

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

Showing times and prices for Feb 01

Cheapest price

$335

Average price

$766

Fastest journey

1 h 10 m

Average duration

1 h 47 m

Flights per day

45

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 $766 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $335.

Fast flights

Of the 45 flights that leave San Francisco, CA for Santa Barbara, CA onSun, Feb 01, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Feb 01 the direct flights cover the 446 km distance in an average of 1 h 47 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 10 m .

On Sun, Feb 01 the longest flights will take 3 h 56 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.

UnitedUA2866
09:20PM1h10
San Francisco International Airport
10:30PMSanta Barbara Airport
$3351One-way
0 transfers
UnitedUA5740
08:25AM1h24
San Francisco International Airport
09:49AMSanta Barbara Airport
$3351One-way
0 transfers
UnitedUA2428
04:37PM1h12
San Francisco International Airport
05:49PMSanta Barbara Airport
$3351One-way
0 transfers
UnitedUA1578
10:40AM1h15
San Francisco International Airport
11:55AMSanta Barbara Airport
$3351One-way
0 transfers
UnitedUA1498 · UA5893
01:25PM3h56
San Francisco International Airport
05:21PMSanta Barbara Airport
$3451One-way
1 transfer

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 €32. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 12m. 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 €32, and a flight costs an average of €68.

Distance: 277 miles (446 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Train

€228

Average price

€53

Average price

Cheapest

€66

Average price

4h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 9m

Average total duration

7h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 15m

Average total duration

9h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1.3 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
United

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

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, Saturday, January 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 6:55 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA2420 · UA6711:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h15
9:15 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2420 · UA15761:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
15h52
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2114 · AA16712:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h12
2:12 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2114+skywest_airlinesAA49722:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h46
11:46 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2114 · AA30692:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
5h46
7:46 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA604 · UA58932:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h21
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1233 · UA6712:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h50
9:15 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1233 · UA15762:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
14h27
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1260 · UA58933:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h56
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA57404:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
1h24
5:49 PM Santa Barbara Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2348 · UA1252 · UA58934:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h46
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2348 · UA15764:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h17
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5394 · UA5328 · UA58934:45 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h36
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2027 · UA5753 · UA58934:55 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h26
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2411+skywest_airlinesAA49725:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h36
11:46 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1896 · UA58935:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h11
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2411 · AA16715:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h02
2:12 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA643 · UA1961 · UA15766:40 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h12
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA15786:40 PM San Francisco International Airport
1h15
7:55 PM Santa Barbara Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1164 · UA47966:52 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h52
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1164 · UA58936:52 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h29
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA6404+american_airlinesAA16717:04 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h08
2:12 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA6404 · AA49727:04 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h42
11:46 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2076 · UA15767:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h42
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5958 · UA5307 · UA58938:28 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h53
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2671 · UA15768:55 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h57
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2671 · UA2240 · UA47968:55 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h49
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA5509 · UA5626 · UA47969:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h34
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1498 · UA58939:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
3h56
1:21 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1008 · UA5663 · UA47969:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h19
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1498 · UA47969:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h19
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1596 · UA1368 · UA479610:42 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h02
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1596 · UA157610:42 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h10
4:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
Sunday, February 1
unitedUA1754 · UA479612:20 AM San Francisco International Airport
7h24
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA242812:37 AM San Francisco International Airport
1h12
1:49 AM Santa Barbara Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1434 · UA5636 · UA47961:05 AM San Francisco International Airport
6h39
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1872 · UA47961:45 AM San Francisco International Airport
5h59
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2436 · UA6712:50 AM San Francisco International Airport
18h25
9:15 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1800 · UA47962:53 AM San Francisco International Airport
4h51
7:44 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
unitedUA28665:20 AM San Francisco International Airport
1h10
6:30 AM Santa Barbara Airport0 transfersDirect

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.

Sun
Feb 01
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Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA flights with Omio?

United as well as Sky West Airlines offer 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for United, but also compare tickets for the likes of Sky West Airlines to find the best option for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
  • 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, Sky West Airlines 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, Sky West Airlines from $40 (€32). 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 14m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€68)
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.

Sky West Airlines

About
SkyWest Airlines is a major North American regional airline headquartered in St. George, Utah. It operates flights for larger carriers such as Alaska Airlines (as Alaska SkyWest), American Airlines (as American Eagle), Delta Air Lines (as Delta Connection), and United Airlines (as United Express). SkyWest is the largest regional airline in North America by fleet size, passengers carried, and destinations served. The airline connects passengers to over 250 destinations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, primarily linking smaller airports to major airline hubs. SkyWest's fleet consists of regional jets, including the Bombardier CRJ series and Embraer 175 aircraft.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One carry-on bag and one personal item are allowed for free.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased, and fees apply for excess, oversized, or overweight baggage.
Cancellation Policy
If canceled within 24 hours of purchase, a full refund is possible, provided the departure is at least 7 days away; after 24 hours, fees range from $100 to $500.
Refund
If SkyWest Airlines cancels a flight, passengers are eligible for a full refund.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but specific policies may depend on the partner airline.
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-14 can travel alone using the unaccompanied minor service, which includes airport escort and supervision.
Amenities on board the airplane
Seat reservation
Toilets
Accessibility
SkyWest Airlines complies with all provisions of the Air Carrier Access Act and accommodates customers with special needs.
Bikes
Bicycles can be checked in but may incur additional fees and must be properly packed.
Pets
Small pets like cats and dogs are allowed in the cabin for a fee, with restrictions on pet and carrier size.

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.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $86 (€68) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is $288 (€228) ; 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 14m 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 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct flights a day from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with . 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, Sky West Airlines 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 July.
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.
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.
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.

popular airports

Popular airports from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

San Francisco
Santa Barbara
The major airport for departures in San Francisco is San Francisco International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco International Airport for your trip from San Francisco to Santa Barbara.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
carConnection
Car connection
US-101, exit 423A
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops are located in all terminals, including DFS Duty-Free and Burberry.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available in the Domestic and International Garages, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per 15 minutes.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, toilets.
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Shower
Shower
  • Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including the United Club and Delta Sky Club.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall of the Domestic Terminal.
Public transit options for San Francisco International Airport
  • Buses: SamTrans 292, 397, 398, KX
  • Metro: BART Yellow Line

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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