Find coaches from Santa Barbara, CA to South Lake Tahoe, CA

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Today3 Apr
from US$98
Tomorrow4 Apr
Sat5 Apr
Sun6 Apr
Mon7 Apr
Tue8 Apr
Wed9 Apr
Thu10 Apr

Next departures to South Lake Tahoe

One passenger / one way

  • This trip is recommended because it is the: Cheapest
    Departure time: 3 April at
    Departure city: Santa Barbara
    Departure location: Train Station
    Arrival time: 4 April at
    Destination city: South Lake Tahoe
    Destination location: Emerald Bay Rd
    Operated by: AmtrakAmtrak
    Vehicle: BusDuration:
  • This trip is recommended because it is the: Fastest
    Departure time: 3 April at
    Departure city: Santa Barbara
    Departure location: UC Santa Barbara
    Arrival time: 4 April at
    Destination city: South Lake Tahoe
    Destination location: Emerald Bay Rd
    Operated by: AmtrakAmtrak
    Vehicle: BusDuration:
  • Departure time: 3 April at
    Departure city: Santa Barbara
    Departure location: Train Station
    Arrival time: 4 April at
    Destination city: South Lake Tahoe
    Destination location: Stateline Transit Center
    Operated by: AmtrakAmtrak
    Vehicle: BusDuration:
  • Departure time: 3 April at
    Departure city: Santa Barbara
    Departure location: UC Santa Barbara
    Arrival time: 4 April at
    Destination city: South Lake Tahoe
    Destination location: Stateline Transit Center
    Operated by: AmtrakAmtrak
    Vehicle: BusDuration:
  • Departure time: 3 April at
    Departure city: Santa Barbara
    Departure location: UC Santa Barbara
    Arrival time: 4 April at
    Destination city: South Lake Tahoe
    Destination location: Emerald Bay Rd
    Operated by: AmtrakAmtrak
    Vehicle: BusDuration:

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Bus Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe: Trip Overview

Average ticket priceUS$95
Average bus trip duration14h 45m
Number of daily buses4
Earliest bus departure22:05
Distance311 miles

Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe buses

Busbud shows you the best bus ticket fares and bus schedules so you can easily plan and book a trip by bus from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe.

Bus service from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe will be provided by the most trusted bus companies.

From cheap bus tickets to more luxurious buses travelling from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe, we offer a wide range of bus services to best suit your needs depending on how much your budget is.

Frequently asked questions on the trip Santa Barbara - South Lake Tahoe

  1. How much is coach from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe?

    The prices typically range from US$95 to US$95 on this trip, with the average ticket costing US$95. The actual price may differ based on factors like the time you plan to travel, the day of the week, and the coach service provider you select. Keep in mind that booking tickets on the day of travel might result in higher prices.

  2. How long does the coach from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe take?

    The coach journey between Santa Barbara and South Lake Tahoe lasts about 14h 45m. The quickest coach journey typically takes 14h 25m. However, please keep in mind that your specific travel time may vary due to the prevailing traffic conditions along the route.

  3. At what time does the first coach from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe leave?

    The first coach to South Lake Tahoe from Santa Barbara departs at 22:05. Keep in mind that departure times might change on weekends and holidays.

  4. What's the distance between Santa Barbara and South Lake Tahoe by coach?

    The journey from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe by coach covers an approximate distance of 313 miles (504 km).

  5. How can I travel from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe avoiding air travel?

    You can choose the coach to travel this route. Choosing the coach guarantees a comfortable and sustainable travel experience, allowing you to admire the views on your way to your destination. You might also find carpooling options to travel between the two cities.

  6. Can I catch a night bus from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe?

    Yes, you can find buses leaving until 22:05 and arriving the next day. Remember to bring along some essentials like a snuggly blanket and a few treats for a comfortable trip.

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
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Today
US$98
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busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe was searched and found on 3 Apr 2025 with a price of US$98

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe as early as possible.

About Bus Travel

Bus Travel Tips

If you're abroad, study some local language. Not only could it get you out of a pickle during your bus trip from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe but it'll also be endearing to native speakers who will surely appreciate your effort.

Much more than a mere vehicle taking you from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe, riding the bus will expose you to some of the most stunning panoramas while enroute to your final bus stop.

Taking the bus creates the smallest carbon footprint compared to other modes of transport. Not to mention that buses will allow you to discover scenic gems from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe that are otherwise impossible to come by with a plane.

Make a music playlist for your bus ride from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe, and enjoy the scenery to tunes from your own personal soundtrack.

Did you know?

The word 'bus' is an abbreviation of 'omnibus" which means 'for all' in Latin as buses were meant to be transportation for everybody.

The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!

It takes 27 hours to go by bus from Lima to Cusco, one of the craziest bus trips on the world. This route is used daily by locals and backpackers.

You can also go to South Lake Tahoe by train

Train from Santa Barbara to South Lake Tahoe

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Popular Buses Connecting South Lake Tahoe

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