- 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.
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 prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a bus costs an average of $17.
Distance: 74 miles (120 km)
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$37 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 9m 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 |
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 11m.
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.
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.
Distance 74 miles (120 km) |
Average train duration 3h 11m |
Trains per day 1 |
First train 5:35 AM |
Last train 6:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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.
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
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.
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
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.

Most Santa Monica, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Santa Monica, 2nd Street / Broadway (Santa Monica Place) 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.
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 options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
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