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Journey information
Overview: Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA flight
USAUSA
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA depart on average 36 times per day, taking around 1h 9m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $108 (€88) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by bus.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:50, the last at 23:44. The fastest flight covers the 277 miles (446 km) distance in 1h 4m. May is the cheapest month to fly.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 277 miles (446 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $108 (€88) |
Flights per day 36 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 4m |
Cheapest month May |
First flight 12:50 AM |
Last flight 11:44 PM |
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 $43 (€35)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Apr 05
Cheapest price
$370
Average price
$825
Fastest journey
1 h 17 m
Average duration
1 h 21 m
Flights per day
57
Distance
446 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $825 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $370.
Fast flights
Of the 57 flights that leave Santa Barbara, CA for San Francisco, CA onSun, Apr 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Apr 05 the direct flights cover the 446 km distance in an average of 1 h 21 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 17 m .
On Sun, Apr 05 the longest flights will take 1 h 28 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.
UA23406:00 AM1h18Santa Barbara Airport7:18 AMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers- UA47159:50 AM1h28Santa Barbara Airport11:18 AMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA20978:31 PM1h17Santa Barbara Airport9:48 PMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA52564:11 PM1h27Santa Barbara Airport5:38 PMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA23052:16 PM1h17Santa Barbara Airport3:33 PMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA20978:31 PM1h17Santa Barbara Airport9:48 PMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA23052:16 PM1h17Santa Barbara Airport3:33 PMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA23406:00 AM1h18Santa Barbara Airport7:18 AMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA52564:11 PM1h27Santa Barbara Airport5:38 PMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
- UA47159:50 AM1h28Santa Barbara Airport11:18 AMSan Francisco International Airport$3701One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a flight costs an average of $108.
Distance: 277 miles (446 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Train |
|---|---|---|
$295 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price |
4h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 50m Average total duration 8h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 0m Average total duration 9h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA flight times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA flights for today, Saturday, April 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 1h17 | 3:47 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:42 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 1h21 | 4:03 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:45 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 1h23 | 4:08 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:10 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1h07 | 11:17 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:17 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1h18 | 11:35 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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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Why should you book Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA flights with Omio?
United operates all flights services from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio vs United?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare United with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Kayak, Skyscanner or Trip?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Airlines: United from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CAFind the best flights between Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA with Omio's travel partners United from $43 (€35). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
United
About
United Airlines, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Price
$108 (€88)
United frequency
30 a day
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.
FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $108 (€88) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA is $295 (€241) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA is 1h 4m to travel the 277 miles (446 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:44 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct flights a day from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA with United. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA, you can count on United for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA generally leave from Santa Barbara Airport and arrive in San Francisco International Airport.Santa Barbara Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from Santa Barbara, CA city centre and San Francisco International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor San Francisco, 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.
There is no time difference between Santa Barbara, CA and San Francisco, CA.
The best events to attend in San Francisco, CA include:
- Fleet Week, a maritime celebration featuring the Blue Angels and naval ship tours
- Outside Lands, a major music festival showcasing top artists and local food
- Chinese New Year Parade, the largest Lunar New Year celebration outside Asia with colorful floats and performances
- Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, a free music festival in Golden Gate Park featuring a diverse lineup of bluegrass and folk artists.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
- Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
- Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
- Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
- Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
- Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best holidays to experience in San Francisco, CA include:
- Thanksgiving, mild weather and a festive atmosphere with family gatherings
- Christmas, beautiful decorations and holiday spirit throughout the city
- Memorial Day, the start of summer with outdoor activities and parades
- Labor Day, a long weekend perfect for enjoying the city's parks and beaches.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
- Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
- Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
- Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
- Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
The best season to visit San Francisco, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Francisco, CA is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 airports
Popular airports from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA
Santa Barbara
San Francisco
The major airport for departures in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara Airport for your trip from Santa Barbara to San Francisco.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
US-101, exit 104Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops available, including gift shops and newsstands near the main terminal.
Parking
- Parking available near the terminal, approximately 1.3€ (200 JPY) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants available, including The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Costa Terraza
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Lounge
- Lounge available, First Class Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in the main terminal.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available, including Hertz and Avis counters in the terminal
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Airport
- Bus line 11, Goleta Amtrak Station, 7 miles
The major airport for arrivals in San Francisco is San Francisco International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco International Airport for your journey to San Francisco from Santa Barbara.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
ShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
US-101, exit 423AWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are located in all terminals, including DFS Duty-Free and Burberry.
Parking
- Parking available in the Domestic and International Garages, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per 15 minutes.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, toilets.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including the United Club and Delta Sky Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall of the Domestic Terminal.
Public transit options for San Francisco International Airport
- Buses: SamTrans 292, 397, 398, KX
- Metro: BART Yellow Line
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from San Francisco, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
HomeFlightsFlights in USAFlight Schedules to San Francisco, CASanta Barbara, CA to San Francisco, CA Flights
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