- 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.
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$39
Fastest journey
3 h 23 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
174 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Fullerton, 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 Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Of the 12 trains that leave Fullerton, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Wed, Jul 22, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 22 the direct trains cover the 174 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 23 m .
On Wed, Jul 22 the slowest trains will take 3 h 37 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.
761 Pacific Surfliner
785 Pacific Surfliner
769 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
777 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
777 Pacific Surfliner
769 Pacific Surfliner
785 Pacific Surfliner
761 Pacific SurflinerOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $202.
Distance: 108 miles (174 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$33 Average price | $24 Average price Cheapest | $356 Average price | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 4m Average total duration 3h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.0kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $9 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $33 (€33).
A bus is $332 (€332) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $356 (€356).
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 34m.
Bus takes on average 4h 0m.
Tickets start at around $33 (€33) compared to roughly $20 (€20) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-12.82 (€-12.82). The journey takes 3h 34m versus 2h 20m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
777 Pacific Surfliner | 2:21 PM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h24 | 5:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
777 Pacific Surfliner | 2:21 PM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h39 | 6:00 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
785 Pacific Surfliner | 6:21 PM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h51 | 10:12 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
785 Pacific Surfliner | 6:21 PM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h35 | 9:56 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, July 22 | |||||
761 Pacific Surfliner | 6:18 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h37 | 9:55 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
761 Pacific Surfliner | 6:18 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h51 | 10:09 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 8:21 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h47 | 12:08 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
765 Pacific Surfliner | 8:21 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h23 | 11:44 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner | 8:21 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h37 | 11:58 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 8:21 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h47 | 12:08 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 10:21 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h25 | 1:46 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 10:21 AM Fullerton Station, Fullerton, CA | 3h41 | 2:02 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€32) but you can travel from only $24 (€24) by bus.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 108 miles (174 km) distance in 3h 24m.
Distance 108 miles (174 km) |
Average train duration 3h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€32) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 3h 24m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
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.
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
The train connection between Fullerton, CA and Santa Barbara, CA is a convenient way to travel along the beautiful California coast. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and charming coastal towns. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can enjoy a comfortable journey while relaxing in spacious seating or taking advantage of onboard amenities. Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or exploring local attractions, traveling by train provides an enjoyable experience that connects these two cities seamlessly.
The train connection between Fullerton and Santa Barbara takes approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes. There are 3 direct connections available each day, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara.
The first daily train departs from Fullerton at 1:18 PM and arrives in Santa Barbara at 9:18 PM. This connection offers travelers a scenic journey along California's beautiful coastline.
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between Fullerton and Santa Barbara is $35 (31.5€). This fare provides an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara while enjoying scenic views along the way.
Welcome to the Santa Barbara Mission, founded in 1786 as one of California's original 21 missions; it stands as a testament to Spanish colonial history and the spread of Christianity among Native Americans. This stunning structure is not only significant for its architectural beauty but also for its role in shaping the cultural landscape of Southern California, making it a must-visit site that reflects both faith and community resilience. As you explore its lush gardens and historic artifacts, you'll discover unique features like the beautiful altar adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals that tell stories from centuries past.
Next on our journey is Stearns Wharf, built in 1872 as a shipping dock for goods arriving by sea; this iconic landmark has transformed into an inviting hub where visitors can enjoy breathtaking ocean views while indulging in local seafood delicacies. The wharf holds historical significance as one of Santa Barbara’s oldest working piers, showcasing how maritime trade shaped this coastal city’s economy over time. Unique attractions here include charming shops filled with artisan crafts and marine life exhibits at the Sea Center—perfect spots to immerse yourself in both culture and nature.
Finally, we arrive at Courthouse Sunken Gardens—a hidden gem nestled within Santa Barbara's historic courthouse complex completed in 1929; these beautifully landscaped gardens are renowned for their serene ambiance amidst striking architecture inspired by Spanish-Moorish design. The significance lies not just in their aesthetic appeal but also as a gathering place reflecting community spirit through various events throughout the year. Be sure to take note of unique features such as colorful tile mosaics depicting local flora alongside fragrant blooms that create an enchanting atmosphere perfect for relaxation or photography!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Fullerton, 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.

Most Fullerton, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Fullerton Station to Santa Barbara Station station pair, with some services arriving at Goleta Station. Use this guide to compare Fullerton, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Fullerton Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: The Old Spaghetti Factory, Heroes Bar & Grill
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Fullerton Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Fullerton Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Fullerton Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Fullerton Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Fullerton Station.
Nearby hotels include Fullerton Marriott at California State University, The Hotel Fullerton Anaheim, Holiday Inn Express Fullerton.
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 options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
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