LAX offers more flight options and oftentimes less expensive flights into Southern California than the Santa Barbara Airport. The drive from LAX to Santa Barbara is about 2 hours. If you are flying into LAX, we recommend renting a car or taking the shuttle bus for $55 per person per trip (click here to book). You can also take the Amtrak Surfliner train from LAX directly to downtown Santa Barbara.

The train is a great way to travel to Santa Barbara! The Amtrak Surfliner to Santa Barbara has several pick up locations in Southern Califronia, including LAX, Simi Valley, Burbank, Glendale, and San Diego. This option drops you off right in Downtown Santa Barbara.