- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum Of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and European collections in a historic downtown building. A top cultural stop for its strong permanent collection and rotating exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a flight costs an average of $361.
Distance: 274 miles (442 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$102 Average price | $361 Average price | $50 Average price Cheapest |
9h 38m Average total duration 9h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 24m Average total duration 8h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $50 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $102 (€82).
A bus is $311 (€251) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $361 (€292).
The fastest way to travel from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 21m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 54m.
Train takes on average 9h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Walnut Creek, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Compare prices and tickets Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 18 times per day, taking around 9h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $97 (€78) but you can travel from only $49 (€40) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:53, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 274 miles (442 km) distance in 9h 8m.
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 $49 (€40)
Distance 274 miles (442 km) |
Average train duration 9h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€78) |
Trains per day 18 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 9h 8m |
First train 6:53 AM |
Last train 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $49 (€40)
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 and visitors for interactive exhibits and a rooftop sky garden. Contemporary and highly social-media-friendly.
- Recommended
Museum Of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara
Contemporary art museum known for changing exhibitions by emerging and established artists. Smaller than the main art museum but well regarded by local art followers.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Historic wharf with ocean views, easy harbor access, and one of the city's classic walking spots. Especially popular for sunset photos and first-time visits.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor lined with shops, historic buildings, patios, and people-watching. Central for exploring the city's urban heart on foot.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Waterfront
Scenic coastal area spanning the harbor, beach paths, and palm-lined shoreline. A priority area for walking, cycling, and classic Santa Barbara views.
- Gluten-free
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Tri-tip beef seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic, then grilled over red oak. It is a Central Coast classic strongly associated with the Santa Barbara area.
- Gluten-free
Local Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Seasonal local prawns prized for their sweet flavor and delicate texture, often served simply grilled or sauteed to highlight fresh coastal seafood.
- Gluten-free
Uni Dishes From Santa Barbara Sea Urchin
Fresh sea urchin harvested off the coast, enjoyed raw or lightly prepared. It is one of the region's most distinctive ocean delicacies.
Bouchon Santa Barbara
Established downtown restaurant focused on Santa Barbara County wine and locally sourced California cuisine in an intimate setting.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Stylish Spanish restaurant and tapas bar known for paella, sherry, and lively dining in the Funk Zone.
Brophy Bros.
Busy harbor seafood institution loved for oysters, chowder, and waterfront views in a casual setting.
United States Dollar
Santa Barbara is pricier than most U.S. cities, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-18 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Walnut Creek, 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 Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $97 (€78), while the average price is around $102 (€82).
The train from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 9h 8m and runs 18 per day.
The first train from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:53 AM.
The distance by train from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 274 miles (442 km).
The last train from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:05 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Walnut Creek, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Martinez station, Martinez, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $49 (€40).
The train journey from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, offering views of diverse landscapes including coastal areas, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards along the route, particularly as you travel through parts of the Central Coast.
A day trip from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 8m each way. Trains operate 16 times per day.
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.
No, you cannot take the train from Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Walnut Creek, 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.
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 Walnut Creek, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Walnut Creek
Santa Barbara
Amenities at train station
Lockers
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Dining
- The Lark
- Santo Mezcal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Hotel Californian
- Harbor View Inn
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
More options for your journey from Walnut Creek, 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 Walnut Creek, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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