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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 5h 24m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $119 (€95) but you can travel from only $42 (€34) 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 2h 52m. 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 $42 (€34)
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average flight duration 5h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $119 (€95) |
Flights per day 29 |
Fastest flight 2h 52m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 10:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
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 $42 (€34)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$254
Average price
$642
Fastest journey
1 h 4 m
Average duration
2 h 33 m
Flights per day
34
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 $642 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $254.
Fast flights
Of the 34 flights that leave Santa Barbara, CA for San Diego, CA onThu, May 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct flights cover the 302 km distance in an average of 2 h 33 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 4 m .
On Thu, May 07 the longest flights will take 3 h 47 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.
AS30642:53 PM1h04Santa Barbara Airport3:57 PMSan Diego International Airport$2541One-way0 transfers- AS30656:00 AM1h04Santa Barbara Airport7:04 AMSan Diego International Airport$2541One-way0 transfers
UA2305 · UA13362:17 PM4h16Santa Barbara Airport6:33 PMSan Diego International Airport$3071One-way1 transfer- UA2340 · UA4446:00 AM3h58Santa Barbara Airport9:58 AMSan Diego International Airport$3071One-way1 transfer
- UA2097 · UA18636:50 PM3h47Santa Barbara Airport10:37 PMSan Diego International Airport$3071One-way1 transfer
- AS30642:53 PM1h04Santa Barbara Airport3:57 PMSan Diego International Airport$2541One-way0 transfers
- AS30656:00 AM1h04Santa Barbara Airport7:04 AMSan Diego International Airport$2541One-way0 transfers
- UA5994 · UA54152:20 PM3h04Santa Barbara Airport5:24 PMSan Diego International Airport$3071One-way1 transfer
- UA4649 · UA46436:25 AM3h44Santa Barbara Airport10:09 AMSan Diego International Airport$3071One-way1 transfer
- UA2097 · UA18636:50 PM3h47Santa Barbara Airport10:37 PMSan Diego International Airport$3071One-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 $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 24m. 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 $49, and a flight costs an average of $119.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$281 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest | $73 Average price |
8h 24m Average total duration Fastest 5h 24m 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* |
0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
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, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UA4649 · UA341 | 6:25 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 13h38 | 8:03 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4649 · UA4643 | 6:25 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 3h44 | 10:09 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4649 · UA5415 | 6:25 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 10h59 | 5:24 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4715 · UA2610 · UA5415 | 9:45 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h39 | 5:24 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA4715 · UA635 | 9:45 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 5h54 | 3:39 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA4715 · UA2610 · UA341 | 9:45 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 10h18 | 8:03 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA4715 · UA1506 · UA5415 | 9:45 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h39 | 5:24 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA4715 · UA5508 | 9:45 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 11h03 | 8:48 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1790 · UA540 | 1:10 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 8h02 | 9:12 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1790 · UA1835 | 1:10 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 9h06 | 10:16 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA1790 · UA5529 | 1:10 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h59 | 9:09 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2305 · UA5508 | 2:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h31 | 8:48 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2305 · UA1336 | 2:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h16 | 6:33 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2305 · UA1754 · UA341 | 2:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 5h46 | 8:03 PM San Diego International Airport | 2 transfers | |
| UA2305 · UA1577 | 2:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h21 | 8:38 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5994 · UA341 | 2:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 5h43 | 8:03 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5994 · UA5415 | 2:20 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 3h04 | 5:24 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS3064 | 2:53 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 1h04 | 3:57 PM San Diego International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| UA5256 · UA1863 | 4:15 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h22 | 10:37 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5256 · UA1577 | 4:15 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h23 | 8:38 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA5256 · UA5508 | 4:15 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 4h33 | 8:48 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2097 · UA1863 | 6:50 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 3h47 | 10:37 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2097 · UA2142 | 6:50 PM Santa Barbara Airport | 5h38 | 12:28 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, May 7 | |||||
| UA2865 · UA1281 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 12h19 | 5:19 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA540 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 16h12 | 9:12 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA5507 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h59 | 12:59 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA1302 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 9h56 | 2:56 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA5529 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 16h09 | 9:09 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2865 · UA1940 | 5:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 7h47 | 12:47 PM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA444 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 3h58 | 9:58 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA5510 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 6h12 | 12:12 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA5508 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 14h48 | 8:48 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport | 1 transfer | |
| UA2340 · UA2177 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 5h54 | 11:54 AM San Diego International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AS3065 | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara Airport | 1h04 | 7:04 AM San Diego International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 $178Trains
from $58Buses
from $45Compare 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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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 $119 (€95) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is $281 (€224) ; 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 2h 52m 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
Santa Barbara
San Diego
The major airport for departures in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara Airport for your trip from Santa Barbara to San Diego.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
US-101, exit 104Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops available, including gift shops and newsstands near the main terminal.
Parking
- Parking available near the terminal, approximately 1.3€ (200 JPY) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants available, including The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Costa Terraza
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Lounge
- Lounge available, First Class Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in the main terminal.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available, including Hertz and Avis counters in the terminal
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Airport
- Bus line 11, Goleta Amtrak Station, 7 miles
The major airport for arrivals in San Diego is San Diego International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Diego International Airport for your journey to San Diego from Santa Barbara.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
Hotel
ShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmCar connection
I-5, exit Sassafras StWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops in terminals 1 and 2, including Duty-Free and Hudson News.
Parking
- Parking available, price varies.
Dining
- Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance.
Shower
- Showers available at the Airspace Lounge, access fee required.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including United Club and Airspace Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal 2 East, baggage claim area.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available at Rental Car Center, free shuttle from terminals
Public transit options for San Diego International Airport
- Bus Route 992, Airport Station, 4.8 km
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)
Amenities at airport
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- 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
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