Santa Barbara: Day Trips and Tours from Los Angeles

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic Santa Ynes Mountains, Santa Barbara is characterized by its Spanish colonial heritage, Mediterranean Riviera-like coastline and rugged scenery.

Whether you want to sightsee, shop or sample some of the region’s exceptional wines, a day tour to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles is sure to tick all the right boxes.

Here's your guide to visiting Santa Barbara, one of the most stunning day trips from Los Angeles.

How to get to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles?

Santa Barbara is located only 155 kilometers north west of Los Angeles, an easy drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway Route 101. If you’re not in a hurry, you can stop in Santa Monica, Malibu or Ventura on the way.

From Los Angeles to Santa Barbara by car

Driving to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles takes around 1.5 hours by car along U.S. Route 101, the Pacific Coastal Highway. A road trip along this iconic route provides plenty of great stops for photography or sightseeing opportunities. You can drive the route yourself, or book a transfer with a professional service.

From Los Angeles to Santa Barbara by bus

A bus trip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara takes around 2.5 hours each way. Buses typically operate twice daily, but weekend and holiday time-tables can vary. Most bus services depart from downtown Los Angeles and arrive at the Santa Barbara train station.

From Los Angeles to Santa Barbara by train

Trains from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara are operated by Amtrak and depart every 4 hours. A train trip takes around 2.5 hours one way and you can choose between coach, business and premium seats for the trip.

Guided tour to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles

Guided tours to Santa Barbara are a hassle free and convenient way of visiting this prominent west coast destination. Full-day and multi-day tours from Los Angeles in the company of a professional guide will ensure that you make the most of your traveling time.

Santa Barbara from Los Angeles by plane

There are daily departures by plane from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara. The flight takes an hour and departs from Los Angeles International Airport. Do remember that while the flight is only an hour long, security checks and pre-flight preparation will add to your travel time.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles?

A day tour to Santa Barbara typically starts early with a pickup from your hotel, the airport or ta meeting point in downtown Los Angeles.

Your journey along the Pacific Coast Highway departs Los Angeles and continues through Santa Monica, Malibu and Ventura, arriving in Santa Barbara or the surrounding region to begin your tour. Places visited will depend on your itinerary, but there will be a lunch stop at one of the popular eateries in the area.

After a full and busy day experiencing the top attractions of this unique city, you will return to your starting point.

If your tour includes wine tastings at local vineyards, you may only pass through Santa Barbara without stopping for any sightseeing activities.

What kinds of tours can you take to Santa Barbara?

You have several options to choose from when considering a day trip to Santa Barbara. You can join a small-group tour, book a private return transfer or a full-day private tour, you can even sign up for a multi-day tour that includes Santa Barbara in the itinerary.

Here are some of the types of day-trips heading to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles:

Small-group guided tours to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles

On a small-group guided tour, you can choose between a city sightseeing tour or a wine tour. Depending on your tour, you will travel by car or on the Amtrak Coast Starlight. If you have chosen a wine tour, you will visit some of the region’s top wineries and tasting rooms.

On a city tour you will stop to visit some of Santa Barbara’s most famous landmarks.

Private transfer without guide to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles

To experience the splendor of the Pacific Coast Highway without the hassle of driving, consider a private return transfer from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara. Once in the city, you can explore at your leisure and return at your preferred time.

Private tour to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles

A private tour to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles includes the services of a professional guide to make sure that all your needs are met as you tour this stretch of the West Coast.

Depending on the tour you choose, you may visit the neighboring Solvang and see the contrast of Spanish and Danish influences in the region. If shopping is on your to-do list, you also won’t be disappointed.

3-Day California coast tour: Santa Barbara, San Francisco and Yosemite

A small-group 3-day tour including Santa Barbara visits some of California’s most popular attractions. In a group of no more than 15 people you will travel between destinations in an air-conditioned van or motorcoach.

How much does a guided tour cost?

Guided tours to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles cost from US$190 to US$350 per person depending on the type of tour booked.

A private transfer without guide to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles starts from US$170 per person each way depending on the number of passenger.

The price of private tours to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles depend on group size, but range from US$700 to US$1,200 per tour.

3-Day California coast tours including Santa Barbara, San Francisco and Yosemite cost from US$1,750 per tour for up to 3 people and include 2 nights of accommodation.

What will you see in Santa Barabara?

Solvang

Some Santa Barbara tours includes a drive to Solvang. Located in the Santa Ynez Valley just north-east of Santa Barbara, this Danish-style city is known for its architecture, European bakeries and local wine cellars.

Old Mission Santa Barbara

This beautifully restored Mission is a living historical landmark, still inhabited by Franciscan monks. Dating back to 1786, this picturesque site is well worth a visit and tours of the mission run several times a day.

Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is considered the heart of the city and is one of the world’s most photographed locations. Connect with local culture, stop at one of the many concession stands, stroll along the pier or take in the magnificent views from atop the Pacific Park’s Ferris Wheel.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is an excellent example of Spanish Colonial Revival style architecture and is considered one of the USA’s most beautiful public buildings.

When is the best time for a day trip to Santa Barbara?

Visiting Santa Barbara between March and May or September to November is best. Temperatures in Santa Barbara are mild throughout the year, but traveling in early spring or in the autumn months means smaller crowds and less expensive rates.

Travel tips

• Make sure all of your mobile device and camera batteries are fully charged.
• Comfortable clothes and good walking shoes will make sure you have a pleasant tour.
• Pack sunscreen and a hat as it can get hot during the day.
• Remember to bring cash for meals, wine tastings (where applicable) and gratuities.