- 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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 25
Cheapest price
$100
Average price
$101
Fastest journey
10 h 35 m
Average duration
10 h 50 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
446 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.
6624 AMTRAK · 11 Coast Starlight7:00 AM11h12San Francisco, CA6:12 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$1001One-way1 transfer- 6610 AMTRAK · 11 Coast Starlight7:30 AM10h42San Francisco, CA6:12 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$1001One-way1 transfer
- 6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5612 AMTRAK9:40 AM10h35San Francisco, CA8:15 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$1041One-way2 transfers
- 6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5612 AMTRAK9:40 AM10h35San Francisco, CA8:15 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$1041One-way2 transfers
- 6610 AMTRAK · 11 Coast Starlight7:30 AM10h42San Francisco, CA6:12 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$1001One-way1 transfer
- 6624 AMTRAK · 11 Coast Starlight7:00 AM11h12San Francisco, CA6:12 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$1001One-way1 transfer
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 $40. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 18m. 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 $40, and a flight costs an average of $166.
Distance: 277 miles (446 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$104 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $275 Average price |
10h 14m Average total duration 9h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 22m Average total duration 8h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m 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 $69.
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $104.
A bus is $206 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $275.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 52m.
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 today, Monday, August 24. 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 $62 but you can travel from only $40 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 $40
Distance 277 miles (446 km) |
Average train duration 9h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 |
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 Sun |
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 $40
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 $40. 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 37m
Cheapest Price
$54
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
Caltrain
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 17m
Cheapest Price
$136
Caltrain frequency
1 a day
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 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 $68, while the average price is around $104.
The train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 9h 44m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 277 miles (446 km).
The first train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:10 AM.
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 cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $40.
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 44m 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 San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). The station is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at 4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) train station facilities and services
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are accessible in the vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi available at surrounding public areas. ATMs are aTMs available in nearby buildings.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Station is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
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 CaliforniaSanta Barbara, CA 93106, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, University of California from Santa Barbara city centre
Santa Barbara, University of California is 13 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Barbara, University of California train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, University of California has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court located nearby on campus.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available for passengers. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, University of California.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.
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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