- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 30
Cheapest price
$75
Average price
$75
Fastest journey
9 h 27 m
Average duration
9 h 27 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
259 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Fresno, 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 Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Fresno, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Thu, Jul 30, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 30 the direct trains cover the 259 km distance in an average of 9 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 27 m .
On Thu, Jul 30 the slowest trains will take 9 h 27 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.
7:29 PM9h27Fresno, CA4:56 AMSanta Barbara, CA$751One-way0 transfers
- 7:29 PM9h27Fresno, CA4:56 AMSanta Barbara, CA$751One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a flight costs an average of $146.
Distance: 160 miles (259 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $296 Average price | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 58m Average total duration 9h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 47m Average total duration 6h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 35m Average total duration Fastest 5h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $7 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $78 (€64).
A bus is $225 (€186) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $296 (€244).
The fastest way to travel from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 35m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 17m.
Train takes on average 9h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Fresno, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $78 (€64) compared to roughly $45 (€37) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-32.45 (€-26.75). The journey takes 9h 28m versus 3h 47m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:29 PM Fresno, CA | 9h27 | 4:56 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $75 (€62) but you can travel from only $52 (€43) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 160 miles (259 km) distance in 9h 27m.
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 $52 (€43)
Distance 160 miles (259 km) |
Average train duration 9h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $75 (€62) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 9h 27m |
First train 6:39 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $52 (€43)
Complete guide to Santa Barbara, CA
Things to do in Santa Barbara, CA
Discover the best of Santa Barbara, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
- Must visit
Cabrillo Boulevard
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Harbor
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Uni
Fresh sea urchin roe landed from the Santa Barbara Channel. Briny, sweet, and prized because the region is one of California's best-known uni sources.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Barbareño
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
The Lark
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Brophy Bros.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
US Dollar ($)
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
FAQs: Trains from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train. 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 train, 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.
Train ticket prices from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $75 (€62), while the average price is around $78 (€64).
The train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 9h 27m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:39 AM.
The distance by train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 160 miles (259 km).
The last train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Fresno, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Fresno station, Fresno, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $52 (€43).
The train journey from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA offers scenic views of California's diverse landscapes, including agricultural fields, rolling hills, and coastal vistas as you approach Santa Barbara.
In Santa Barbara, CA, visitors can explore State Street for shopping, dining, and entertainment, visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley. For outdoor activities, enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains and visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Best sights include the historic Santa Barbara Mission, Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Santa Barbara Zoo, and the unique Lotusland botanical garden.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Santa Barbara, CA is ideal to explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant downtown, and cultural attractions.
No, you cannot take the train from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Fresno, 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.
Popular day trips by train from Santa Barbara, CA include Ventura, CA, Camarillo, CA, Oxnard, CA, Simi Valley, CA, Moorpark, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Santa Barbara, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like State Street and the waterfront. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use authorized transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Fresno Station to Santa Barbara Station station pair, with some services arriving at Santa Barbara, University of California. Use this guide to compare Fresno, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Fresno
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which Fresno, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Trains from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Fresno Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Fresno, CA city centre at 2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, USA.
Fresno Station2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Fresno Station from Fresno city centre
Fresno Station is 1 km from Fresno city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22 · 3m · every ~3 min
Fresno Station train station facilities and services
Fresno Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Shepherd's Inn, Joe's Steakhouse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fresno Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Fresno Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fresno Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fresno Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fresno Station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center, Radisson Hotel Fresno Conference Center, La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from Fresno, CA arrive at?
Trains from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA most often arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Some services arrive at Santa Barbara, University of California, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Santa Barbara, CA arrival station.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara, University of California
Goleta Station25 South La Patera Lane, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Goleta Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 14m · $4
Bus12X, 6 · 53m · $2 · every ~5 min
Goleta Station train station facilities and services
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Most popular train connections from Fresno, CA
More options for your journey from Fresno, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Fresno, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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