- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian and European works, plus rotating exhibitions in a downtown setting.
Flights from Whittier, CA to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 34 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $482 (€391) but you can travel from only $35 (€28) by train.
There are 2 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:05, the last at 23:03. The fastest flight covers the 100 miles (161 km) distance in 57m. March is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 100 miles (161 km) |
Average flight duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $482 (€391) |
Flights per day 34 |
Direct flights 2 |
Fastest flight 57m |
First flight 5:05 AM |
Last flight 11:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Cheapest price
$482
Average price
$482
Fastest journey
57 m
Average duration
57 m
Flights per day
1
Distance
161 km
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Whittier, 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 Whittier, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $482 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $482.
Of the 1 flights that leave Whittier, CA for Santa Barbara, CA onWed, Jun 17, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct flights cover the 161 km distance in an average of 57 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 57 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the longest flights will take 57 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.


Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Whittier, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $35, and a flight costs an average of $482.
Distance: 100 miles (161 km)
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$482 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 15m Average total duration 6h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Whittier, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A train is $3 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Whittier, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $38 (€30).
A train is $447 (€362) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Whittier, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $482 (€391).
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 32m.
Bus takes on average 6h 45m.
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.
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian and European works, plus rotating exhibitions in a downtown setting.
Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families, known for interactive exhibits and a rooftop experience.
Museum on local history with adobe-era collections, archives and exhibits focused on the city and county.
Historic pier with ocean views, strolling, marine exhibits and easy access to the waterfront.
Main downtown corridor lined with shops, historic buildings and public spaces, ideal for walking and people-watching.
Scenic coastal area spanning the harbor and beachfront, popular for walking, biking and sunset views.
Regional Central Coast barbecue, usually tri-tip grilled over red oak and served with salsa, pinquito beans, garlic bread, and salad. It is one of the area’s most iconic local food traditions.
Sea urchin from the Santa Barbara Channel is a local delicacy, prized for its sweet, briny flavor. It often appears in simple pasta dishes that highlight the freshness of the seafood.
Fresh local fish in tacos reflects Santa Barbara’s coastal location and strong California-Mexican food culture. They are commonly served grilled or battered with cabbage, salsa, and lime.
Popular New American restaurant in the Funk Zone, known for seasonal Central Coast ingredients and polished but relaxed dining.
Stylish Spanish restaurant known for tapas, paella, and a lively upscale atmosphere near the waterfront.
Established harbor seafood restaurant popular for clam chowder, oysters, and marina views in a casual setting.
Santa Barbara is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining near the coast.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for excellent service, USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 for hotel staff as appropriate.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Whittier, 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.

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