- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and European collections in a central downtown setting.
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$9191•One-way
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$5511•One-way
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$9351•One-way
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$6561•One-way
Cheapest
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$3601•One-way
2nd cheapest
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$3701•One-way
+
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$8781•One-way
2nd cheapest, 2nd Fastest
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$3701•One-way
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$7601•One-way
San Francisco International Airport
Santa Barbara Airport
$10501•One-way
The cheapest and fastest flightsfrom San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CAShowing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$360
Average price
$700
Fastest journey
1h 22m
Average duration
8h 33m
Flights per day
13
Distance
730 km
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San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train with Amtrak
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a flight costs an average of $123.
Distance: 277 miles (446 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest | $292 Average price |
10h 14m Average total duration 9h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration 8h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $76 (€62).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $18 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $94 (€77).
A bus is $216 (€177) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $292 (€240).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 54m.
Train takes on average 9h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6624 AMTRAK · 11 Coast Starlight | 7:00 AM San Francisco, CA | 11h12 | 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 6610 AMTRAK · 11 Coast Starlight | 7:30 AM San Francisco, CA | 10h42 | 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5612 AMTRAK | 9:40 AM San Francisco, CA | 10h35 | 8:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€50) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:10, the last at 13:36. The fastest train covers the 277 miles (446 km) distance in 9h 33m.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 277 miles (446 km) |
Average train duration 9h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€50) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 9h 33m |
First train 6:10 AM |
Last train 1:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 4 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 $43 (€35)
Train companies: Amtrak, Caltrain from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak, Caltrain trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $43 (€35). 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
8h 19m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
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
Caltrain
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 17m
Cheapest Price
$133 (€109)
Caltrain frequency
1 a day
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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€50), while the average price is around $94 (€77).
The train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 9h 33m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:10 AM.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 277 miles (446 km).
The last train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 1:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in San Francisco, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $43 (€35).
Yes, the train journey from San Francisco to Santa Barbara is scenic, offering travelers views of California's picturesque coastline, rolling hills, and charming small towns along the route.
A day trip from San Francisco to Santa Barbara is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 33m each way. However, there are 4 trains per day for this route.
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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) to Santa Barbara Station station pair, with some services arriving at Santa Barbara, University of California. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, 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 San Francisco
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which San Francisco, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Emeryville Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at 5885 Horton Street, Emeryville, CA 94608, USA.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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