- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Major art museum with American, Asian and European works. A strong central stop for varied collections in a handsome downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£57
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£64
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
9 h 3 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
9 h 21 m
Trains on 19 Sept
3
Distance
441 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around £64 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £57.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 3 trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 441 km distance in an average of 9 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 3 m .
The slowest trains will take 9 h 57 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
17:099h03Oakland, CA2:12Santa Barbara, CA£571One-way0 changes- 16:099h03Oakland, CA1:12Santa Barbara, CA£661One-way0 changes
- 18:189h57Oakland, CA4:15Santa Barbara, CA£701One-way0 changes
- 17:099h03Oakland, CA2:12Santa Barbara, CA£571One-way0 changes
- 16:099h03Oakland, CA1:12Santa Barbara, CA£661One-way0 changes
- 18:189h57Oakland, CA4:15Santa Barbara, CA£701One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £54 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £54, while a flight costs an average of £308.
Distance: 441 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£68 Average Price | £54 Average Price Cheapest | £308 Average Price | £48 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 31m Average total duration 9h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 44m Average total duration 9h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 34m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a coach with an average price of £54.
This is compared to other travel options from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A coach is £14 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average £68.
A coach is £254 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average £308.
The fastest way to travel from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 34m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 1m.
Coach takes on average 9h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Oakland, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, coach and flight.
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 £68 compared to roughly £48 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-19.88. The journey takes 9h 1m versus 4h 58m 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.
Live departures
Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for tomorrow, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16:09 Oakland, CA | 9h03 | 1:12 Santa Barbara, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:09 Oakland, CA | 9h03 | 2:12 Santa Barbara, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 18:18 Oakland, CA | 9h57 | 4:15 Santa Barbara, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach 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 Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £45 but you can travel from only £32 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 441 km distance in 9h 3m.
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
Coach from £32
Distance 441 km |
Average train duration 9h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price £45 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 9h 3m |
First train 6:39 |
Last train 22:05 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Coach from £32
Train companies: Amtrak from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Oakland, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from £32. 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 Amtrak Duration
9h 3m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£36
Amtrak frequency
3 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
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.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Engaging natural history museum with regional exhibits, astronomy and family-friendly displays. A good choice near Mission Canyon.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara
Contemporary art museum on State Street showing rotating exhibitions. Best for visitors interested in current visual culture and smaller-scale galleries.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively downtown pedestrian-friendly stretch with shops, historic architecture and regular people-watching. Ideal for browsing and an easy city walk.
- Recommended
West Beach
Waterfront neighbourhood with beaches, harbour access and a long palm-lined promenade. Excellent for walking, cycling and sunset views.
- Recommended
Franceschi Park
Scenic hillside viewpoint reached by a short hike or drive. Popular for panoramic views over the city, coastline and Channel Islands on clear days.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Sea Urchin (Uni)
Grilled local sea urchin roe served fresh from nearby waters. It is a prized Santa Barbara coastal delicacy known for its sweet, creamy taste.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Fresh spot prawns from the Santa Barbara Channel, often simply grilled or sautéed. They are celebrated for their sweet flavour and short seasonal availability.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobster from local waters, commonly grilled or roasted. It is a classic regional seafood treat during the local lobster season.
Los Agaves
Lively Mexican restaurant famous for tacos, grilled seafood and vibrant salsas. A dependable choice near the waterfront.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Refined seafood restaurant on Stearns Wharf known for local catch, ocean views and a polished but relaxed setting.
Lucky's
Elegant steakhouse and seafood restaurant focused on premium ingredients, classic service and a special-occasion atmosphere.
US dollar ($)
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Public transport is modestly priced, but tourist areas and coastal restaurants raise daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Round up or tip 10% for taxis. Tip $1-2 for café drinks only if there is table service.
FAQs: Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oakland, 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 cost of a train ticket from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £45, while the average price tends to be around £68.
The train journey from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA covers a distance of 441 km and takes approximately 9h 3m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 441 km.
The first train from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:39.
The last train from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA departs at 22:05.
Trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Oakland, CA and Santa Barbara, CA. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Oakland, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA, and it arrives at Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by coach, costing approximately £32.
Booking trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Oakland to Santa Barbara offers scenic views of California's diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and stunning coastal vistas along the Pacific Ocean, making it a visually appealing trip for travellers.
A day trip from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 3m, covering a distance of 441 km. There are 5 trips per day available by train.
In Santa Barbara, CA, you can explore State Street with its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment, or visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art for a diverse collection of artwork. Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards. Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains for breathtaking views, or visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum to learn about the region's maritime history. For sights, the Santa Barbara Mission offers stunning architecture and gardens, while Stearns Wharf provides shops and ocean views. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden showcases native plants, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers family-friendly animal exhibits, and Lotusland features exotic botanical gardens.
Three to four days in Santa Barbara, CA, is ideal to explore the key attractions, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Oakland, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Jack London Square to Santa Barbara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Oakland, 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 Oakland
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which Oakland, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Jack London Square. The station is 1 km from Oakland, CA city centre at 245 Second Street, Oakland, CA 94607, USA.
Jack London Square245 Second Street, Oakland, CA 94607, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Jack London Square from Oakland city centre
Jack London Square is 1 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAC Transit lines 12, 72, 72M
FerrySan Francisco Bay Ferry
Jack London Square train station facilities and services
Jack London Square has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Yoshi's Oakland, Scott's Seafood Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jack London Square. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jack London Square. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jack London Square: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jack London Square: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jack London Square: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Waterfront Hotel, Z Hotel Jack London Square, Executive Inn & Suites.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from Oakland, CA arrive at?
Trains from Oakland, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Santa Barbara Station is 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.
Most popular train connections from Oakland, CA
More options for your journey from Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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