- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.
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Journey information
Overview: Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA flight
USAUSA
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA depart on average 29 times per day, taking around 4h 40m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $114 (€93) but you can travel from only $39 (€32) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:35. The fastest flight covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 1h 4m. 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 $39 (€32)
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $114 (€93) |
Flights per day 29 |
Fastest flight 1h 4m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $39 (€32)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$267
Average price
$1004
Fastest journey
3 h 44 m
Average duration
4 h 17 m
Flights per day
26
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA will cost around $1004 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $267.
Fast flights
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
UA4649 · UA46436:00 AM4h08Santa Barbara Airport10:08 AMSan Diego International Airport$2671One-way1 transfer- UA5704 · UA21428:24 PM4h06Santa Barbara Airport12:30 AMSan Diego International Airport$2671One-way1 transfer
- UA5647 · UA5946:18 PM5h36Santa Barbara Airport11:54 PMSan Diego International Airport$2671One-way1 transfer
- UA2340 · UA55106:15 AM4h47Santa Barbara Airport11:02 AMMcClellan–Palomar Airport$4421One-way1 transfer
- UA2865 · UA55075:00 AM8h00Santa Barbara Airport1:00 PMMcClellan–Palomar Airport$4421One-way1 transfer
- UA2340 · UA4446:15 AM3h44Santa Barbara Airport9:59 AMSan Diego International Airport$6741One-way1 transfer
- UA5704 · UA21428:24 PM4h06Santa Barbara Airport12:30 AMSan Diego International Airport$2671One-way1 transfer
- UA4649 · UA46436:00 AM4h08Santa Barbara Airport10:08 AMSan Diego International Airport$2671One-way1 transfer
- UA2305 · UA15611:58 PM4h41Santa Barbara Airport6:39 PMSan Diego International Airport$5171One-way1 transfer
- UA2340 · UA55106:15 AM4h47Santa Barbara Airport11:02 AMMcClellan–Palomar Airport$4421One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 40m. 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 train costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $114.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$247 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 40m Average total duration Fastest 4h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 39m Average total duration 6h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 37m Average total duration 6h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m 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 Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $49 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $15 (€12) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $64 (€52).
A train is $198 (€162) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $247 (€202).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 40m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 7m.
Train takes on average 6h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA flight times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UA4715 · UA1257 | 9:59 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h09 | 2:08 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4715 · UA2855 | 9:59 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h08 | 4:07 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4715 · UA5508 | 9:59 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 10h28 | 8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4715 · UA1561 | 9:59 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 8h40 | 6:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1790 · UA5529 | 12:48 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h55 | 8:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1790 · UA540 | 12:48 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h58 | 8:46 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
 AS2176 | 1:42 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1h05 | 2:47 PM San Diego International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UA2305 · UA1561 | 1:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h41 | 6:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2305 · UA1343 | 1:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h55 | 8:53 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2305 · UA5508 | 1:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h29 | 8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2305 · UA5425 · UA594 | 1:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 9h56 | 11:54 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA5862 · UA594 | 2:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 9h34 | 11:54 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5256 · UA5508 | 4:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h24 | 8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5256 · UA2409 · UA594 | 4:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h51 | 11:54 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA5256 · UA1343 | 4:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h50 | 8:53 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5256 · UA5425 · UA594 | 4:03 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h51 | 11:54 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA5704 · UA538 | 8:24 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h06 | 12:30 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| UA2865 · UA5507 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 8h00 | 1:00 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA5529 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 15h43 | 8:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA1302 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 9h55 | 2:55 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA540 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 15h46 | 8:46 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA1281 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 12h20 | 5:20 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4649 · UA4643 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h08 | 10:08 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4649 · UA5415 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 13h51 | 7:51 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA444 | 6:15 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 3h44 | 9:59 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA2177 | 6:15 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 5h36 | 11:51 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA5510 | 6:15 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h47 | 11:02 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA5508 | 6:15 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 14h12 | 8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA?
The best time to book your flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is 70 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Flights
from $174Trains
from $56Buses
from $44Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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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Complete guide to San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Vast cultural park with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, walking paths, and some of San Diego's best photo spots.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Scenic cove known for sea lions, clear water, coastal cliffs, and highly shareable sunset and ocean-view walks.
- Must visit
Coronado Beach
Wide sandy beach beside the Hotel del Coronado, popular for walking, photography, and classic Southern California scenery.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled local fish in tortillas, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature coastal San Diego staple with strong Baja influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego original burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and casual foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shop culture.
Mitch's Seafood
Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh local catch, fish tacos, and sandwiches in a relaxed harbor setting near the fishing fleet.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Historic, no-frills Mexican restaurant famous for house-made tortillas, rolled tacos, and comforting traditional plates. A beloved local institution with a classic atmosphere.
Hodad's
Iconic casual spot in Ocean Beach known for oversized burgers, fries, and a lively beach-town vibe. A long-standing San Diego favorite.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $114 (€93) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is $247 (€202) ; 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 San Diego, CA is 1h 4m 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 Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:35 PM.
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA generally leave from Santa Barbara Airport and arrive in San Diego International Airport.Santa Barbara Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from Santa Barbara, CA city centre and San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) from San Diego, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA.
The best events to attend in San Diego, CA include:
- Comic-Con International, the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world
- San Diego County Fair, a month-long fair featuring rides, games, and local food
- San Diego Beer Week, a celebration of craft beer with tastings and events across the county
- La Jolla Music Festival, an annual event showcasing classical music performances in a picturesque coastal setting.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
- Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
- USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
- La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
- Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
- Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best holidays to experience in San Diego, CA include:
- Memorial Day, ideal weather for beach activities and outdoor events
- Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and patriotic celebrations
- Labor Day, perfect for enjoying the last days of summer at the beach
- Thanksgiving, a time for family gatherings with pleasant fall weather.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
- enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
- hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
- experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
The best season to visit San Diego, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Diego, CA is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 San Diego, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA flights use the Santa Barbara Airport to San Diego International Airport airport pair, with some services landing at McClellan-Palomar Airport. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego
Which Santa Barbara, CA airport do flights to San Diego, CA leave from?
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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, 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.
Which San Diego, CA airport do flights from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at San Diego International Airport. Some flights land at McClellan-Palomar Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival airport.
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.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular flights to San Diego, CA
HomeFlightsFlights in USAFlight Schedules to San Diego, CASanta Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA Flights
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