Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train with Amtrak

Mon, Jun 22
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $84. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $84, and a train costs an average of $106.

Distance: 219 miles (353 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$131

Average price

$85

Average price

Cheapest

$52

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

8h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 10m

Average total duration

8h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $85 (€70).

This is compared to other travel options from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $131 (€107).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by train with an average journey time of 8h 37m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 40m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Cruz, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Cruz, 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 $131 (€107) compared to roughly $52 (€43) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-78.44 (€-64.20). The journey takes 8h 37m versus 4h 5m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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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Jun 22
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

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Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $106 (€87) but you can travel from only $84 (€69) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 07:55, the last at 12:21. The fastest train covers the 219 miles (353 km) distance in 10h 17m.

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 $84 (€69)
Distance
219 miles (353 km)
Average train duration
8h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$106 (€87)
Trains per day
1
Fastest train
10h 17m
First train
7:55 AM
Last train
12:21 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
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 $84 (€69)

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Cruz, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $84 (€69). 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 40m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€69)
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.

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Leading regional art museum with American, Asian and European works, plus rotating exhibitions in a downtown setting.

  • Recommended

MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation

Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families, known for interactive exhibits and a rooftop experience.

  • Recommended

Santa Barbara Historical Museum

Museum on local history with adobe-era collections, archives and exhibits focused on the city and county.

United States Dollar

Santa Barbara is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining near the coast.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 12-20 for casual spots or takeout.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 80+ per person before drinks.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for coffee drinks.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for excellent service, USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 for hotel staff as appropriate.

FAQs: Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Cruz, 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $106 (€87), while the average price is around $131 (€107).
The train from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA runs once a day and takes approximately 10h 17m.
The distance by train from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 219 miles (353 km).
The first train from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:55 AM.
The last train from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 12:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $84 (€69).
The train journey from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific coastline, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards along the route.
A day trip from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 10h 17m. The distance is 219 miles (353 km), and the frequency is 1 per day for trains.
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 Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center to Santa Barbara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center

More options for your journey from Santa Cruz, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

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