- 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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Travel Information
Compare bus for Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $31 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 2h 35m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, while a bus costs an average of $31.
Distance: 74 miles (120 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$31 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $31.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 5m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Santa Monica, CA and Santa Barbara, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus
Compare bus 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 Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
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Take a train from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA and enjoy the approximately 74 miles (120 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 18:19.
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 $20
Distance 74 miles (120 km) |
First train 5:35 AM |
Last train 6:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $20
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 Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Monica, 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.
The distance by train from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 74 miles (120 km).
The first train from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:35 AM.
The last train from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:19 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $20.
Yes, the train journey from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara is scenic, offering picturesque views of the Pacific coastline, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns along the way.
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 Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Santa Monica, 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 Monica, 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 Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Los Angeles, Westwood Amtrak (UCLA) to Santa Barbara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Monica, 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 Monica
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which Santa Monica, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Los Angeles, Westwood Amtrak (UCLA). The station is 11 miles (19 km) from Santa Monica, CA city centre at Westwood Ucla Amtrak Bus Stop, 592 Gayley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA.
Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place)395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place) from Santa Monica city centre
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Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place) train station facilities and services
Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple restaurant options in Santa Monica Place.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi available throughout the station area. ATMs are aTMs located within Santa Monica Place.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place): Wheelchair accessible routes available.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from Santa Monica, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Santa Barbara Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
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Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Santa Monica, CA
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