Santa Barbara, CA SBA to Riverside, CA RAL Flights

Fri, Jul 31
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Journey information

Overview: Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA flight

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Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA depart on average 57 times per day, taking around 5h 3m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $234 (€191) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by bus.

There are 2 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 135 miles (218 km) distance in 3h 17m. May 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 $32 (€26)
Distance
135 miles (218 km)
Average flight duration
5h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
$234 (€191)
Flights per day
57
Direct flights
2
Fastest flight
3h 17m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
7 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 $32 (€26)

The cheapest and fastest flights from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$320

Average price

$610

Fastest journey

1 h 3 m

Average duration

2 h 41 m

Flights per day

61

Distance

218 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA will cost around $610 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $320.

Fast flights

Of the 61 flights that leave Santa Barbara, CA for Riverside, CA onFri, Jul 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 31 the direct flights cover the 218 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 3 m .

On Fri, Jul 31 the longest flights will take 3 h 44 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.

  • UnitedUA5256 · UA5705
    4:03 PM4h23
    Santa Barbara Airport
    8:26 PMPalm Springs International Airport
    $3201One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2305 · UA5705
    1:58 PM6h28
    Santa Barbara Airport
    8:26 PMPalm Springs International Airport
    $3201One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA4715 · UA5312
    9:59 AM5h27
    Santa Barbara Airport
    3:26 PMPalm Springs International Airport
    $3201One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2340 · UA5904
    6:15 AM3h41
    Santa Barbara Airport
    9:56 AMPalm Springs International Airport
    $3201One-way
    1 transfer
  • UnitedUA2865 · UA1294
    5:00 AM7h28
    Santa Barbara Airport
    12:28 PMPalm Springs International Airport
    $3201One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, 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 train which can get you there in 4h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $32, and a flight costs an average of $234.

Distance: 135 miles (218 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$361

Average price

$44

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$30

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 3m

Average total duration

5h 3m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

5h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

14h 1m

Average total duration

13h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 43m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).

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

A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA costing on average $44 (€36).

A bus is $330 (€270) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA costing on average $361 (€296).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 34m.

Other travel options to Riverside, CA take longer:

Flight takes on average 5h 3m.

Bus takes on average 13h 31m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Riverside, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA flights for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
United1:00 PM Santa Barbara, CA
4h05
5:05 PM Riverside, CA0 transfersDirect
United2:00 PM Santa Barbara, CA
4h03
6:03 PM Riverside, CA0 transfersDirect
Friday, July 31
UnitedUA2865 · UA13205:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
7h51
12:51 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA10135:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
8h17
1:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA47875:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
15h35
8:35 PM Palm Springs International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA12945:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
7h28
12:28 PM Palm Springs International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA4305:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
7h47
12:47 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA4055:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
6h34
11:34 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA17075:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
9h57
2:57 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2865 · UA21545:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport
7h48
12:48 PM Burbank1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06

FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA can start from as little as $234 (€191) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA is $361 (€296) ; 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA is 3h 17m to travel the 135 miles (218 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA generally leave from Santa Barbara Airport and arrive in Palm Springs International Airport.Santa Barbara Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from Santa Barbara, CA city centre and Palm Springs International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) from Riverside, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Riverside, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Riverside, 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 Santa Barbara, CA and Riverside, CA.
The best events to attend in Riverside, CA include:
  • Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival, a vibrant celebration of the region's agricultural heritage featuring live entertainment, carnival rides, and delicious date-themed treats
  • Riverside Art Museum Annual Art Walk, an engaging event showcasing local artists and their work throughout the city
  • Riverside International Film Festival, a platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their films with screenings and discussions.
The best holidays to experience in Riverside, CA include:
  • Independence Day, vibrant fireworks and festive celebrations along the river
  • Labor Day, perfect weather for outdoor activities and local events
  • Memorial Day, honoring veterans with parades and a lively atmosphere.
The best season to visit Riverside, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Riverside, CA is during April-May or September-October.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized street vendors. It's advisable to stay aware of surroundings, use secure transportation options, and avoid displaying valuables openly to ensure a safe visit.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA

Most Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA flights use the Santa Barbara Airport to Palm Springs International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Riverside, CA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in Santa Barbara
Arrival airports in Riverside

Which Santa Barbara, CA airport do flights to Riverside, CA leave from?

Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA depart from Santa Barbara Airport. The airport is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at 500 James Fowler Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, USA.
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA)500 James Fowler Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
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 about Santa Barbara Airport

More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA
More information on flights to Santa Barbara, CA
More information on flights to Riverside, CA
HomeFlightsFlights in USAFlight Schedules to Riverside, CASanta Barbara, CA to Riverside, CA Flights

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