- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and European collections in a central downtown setting.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$48
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
5 h 46 m
Average duration
5 h 49 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Fri, Jul 10, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 5 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 46 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest trains will take 5 h 55 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.
2:01 PM5h46San Diego, CA7:47 PMSanta Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers- 11:01 PM5h55San Diego, CA4:56 AMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
- 1:01 PM5h46San Diego, CA6:47 PMSanta Barbara, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 2:01 PM5h46San Diego, CA7:47 PMSanta Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 1:01 PM5h46San Diego, CA6:47 PMSanta Barbara, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 11:01 PM5h55San Diego, CA4:56 AMSanta Barbara, CA$491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 31m. 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 bus costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $72.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$49 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $253 Average price | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 19m Average total duration 5h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 31m Average total duration Fastest 5h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 1.8kg 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $40 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $49 (€40).
A bus is $212 (€174) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $253 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 31m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 48m.
Bus takes on average 5h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:01 PM San Diego, CA | 5h46 | 6:47 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:01 PM San Diego, CA | 5h46 | 7:47 PM 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, 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.
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA?
The best time to book your train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Trains
from $54Buses
from $44Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 17 times per day, taking around 5h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€39) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 19:19. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 5h 46m.
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 $37 (€30)
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average train duration 5h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€39) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 13 |
Fastest train 5h 46m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 7:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $37 (€30)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $37 (€30). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 46m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€39)
Amtrak frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Santa Barbara
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
- Recommended
MOXI, The Wolf Museum Of Exploration + Innovation
Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families, featuring interactive exhibits and a rooftop sky garden.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Compact waterfront museum covering regional seafaring history, diving, Channel Islands heritage, and navigation.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor lined with shops, historic buildings, and people-watching, central to the city experience.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Historic wharf with ocean views, strolling paths, and easy access to the waterfront and marine attractions.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Harbor
Scenic marina and waterfront walking area popular for sunsets, harbor views, and access to the breakwater.
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Central Coast tri-tip grilled over red oak, traditionally served with pinquito beans, salsa, and garlic bread. It is one of the region’s signature local meals.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Sweet local prawns from nearby waters, often simply grilled or served crudo when in season. They are prized for freshness and strong coastal identity.
- Gluten-free
Local Sea Urchin
Fresh uni from the Santa Barbara Channel, known for its rich, creamy texture. It is a standout local seafood delicacy tied to the city’s fishing culture.
Cold Spring Tavern Santa Barbara
Historic stagecoach-era tavern in the hills above the city, known for rustic atmosphere, hearty fare, and weekend barbecue traditions.
The Lark Santa Barbara
Popular Funk Zone restaurant serving seasonal California cuisine with local seafood, vegetables, and strong Central Coast sourcing in a lively upscale setting.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Stylish Spanish restaurant known for tapas, paella, cocktails, and a polished downtown atmosphere. Good choice for shared plates and evening dining.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near the beach and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for casual eats or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, USD 1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for hotel staff.
FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€39), while the average price is around $49 (€40).
The train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 5h 46m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 187 miles (302 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:19 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 13 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
Yes, the train journey from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic. It offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal landscapes, charming beach towns, and stretches of natural beauty along the way.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 46m. However, there are 16 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 187 miles (302 km).
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.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither San Diego, 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, 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.
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
