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£44 Cheap Flights from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

View £44 flight on Sun, 6 Sept 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)

Cheap Flights from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at £44 for one-way flights and £109 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Alaska Airlines
Sat, 5 Sept - Fri, 11 Sept
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£109 Return, found 1 day ago
£109
Return
found 1 day ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Sat, 5 Sept from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Fri, 11 Sept, priced at £109 found 1 day ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, 20 Jan - Wed, 27 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£143 Return, found 3 days ago
£143
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, 20 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Wed, 27 Jan, priced at £143 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, 20 Jan - Wed, 27 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£145 Return, found 3 days ago
£145
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, 20 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Wed, 27 Jan, priced at £145 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Mon, 18 Jan - Mon, 25 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£152 Return, found 3 days ago
£152
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Mon, 18 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Mon, 25 Jan, priced at £152 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Mon, 18 Jan - Mon, 25 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£153 Return, found 3 days ago
£153
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Mon, 18 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Mon, 25 Jan, priced at £153 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, 20 Jan - Wed, 27 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£166 Return, found 3 days ago
£166
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, 20 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Wed, 27 Jan, priced at £166 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Thu, 14 Jan - Thu, 21 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£170 Return, found 3 days ago
£170
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Thu, 14 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Thu, 21 Jan, priced at £170 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Sun, 17 Jan - Sun, 24 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£183 Return, found 3 days ago
£183
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Sun, 17 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Sun, 24 Jan, priced at £183 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, 20 Jan - Wed, 27 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£189 Return, found 3 days ago
£189
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, 20 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Wed, 27 Jan, priced at £189 found 3 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Mon, 18 Jan - Mon, 25 Jan
SBA
Santa Barbara
SAN
San Diego
£197 Return, found 3 days ago
£197
Return
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Mon, 18 Jan from Santa Barbara to San Diego, returning Mon, 25 Jan, priced at £197 found 3 days ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Santa Barbara (SBA) to San Diego (SAN)

May is typically the cheapest month to fly

From £73 - £147 per traveller.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) cost?
You can find one-way and return flights from SBA to SAN with Expedia. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see our cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when SBA to SAN ticket fares go up or down.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The cheapest months to fly from SBA to SAN are typically during off-peak season when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you are able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Only one airline offers direct flights from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN). Southwest Airlines operates 7 direct flights from SBA to SAN every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines also offers one of the cheapest connecting return flights from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN) with a layover in Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), starting from around £101. Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop return flights from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN), with tickets starting from around £161 for flights that can be booked for departure within the next year. These prices are for economy/coach class per adult. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.
How do I find cheap flights from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Alaska Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Alaska Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. Southwest Airlines offers the most daily flights from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.), which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
There are approximately 21 connecting flights per day from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN). Some common connection points include Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
What is the earliest flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN) typically departs around 5:00 AM. This service is operated by United. This is a seasonal service active in July. An early departure like this can help you make the most of your time at your destination. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You'll typically find the most flights from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN) on a Thursday, with around 22 flights available. This gives you a good selection of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include United, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines. Flight schedules are quite consistent throughout the week, so you'll have plenty of options no matter which day you choose to fly.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN) are in the afternoon, from 12pm to 3pm. Many major carriers, including United, Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. Many travellers prefer this time as it allows for a relaxed morning before heading to the airport, and you'll arrive in San Diego with plenty of time to settle in.
How long does it take to fly from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Flying from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN) covers a distance of around 309 kilometres. A nonstop flight typically takes about 1 hour. If you opt for a flight with one stop, your journey will usually be around 5 hours 50 minutes. Flights with two or more stops tend to take longer, averaging about 7 hours 50 minutes. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to factors like wind patterns and air traffic, so it's always a good idea to allow for some extra time when planning your trip.
Can you fly business or first class from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Yes, you can fly business class or first class between SBA and SAN. First class cabins are available on Alaska Airlines, United, Delta, and American Airlines.
How do I earn miles on a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for San Diego, CA (SAN) from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA)?
If you're planning to travel to San Diego from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA), you can fly directly into San Diego Intl. (SAN). Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Francisco Intl. (SFO), Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), or Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) before reaching San Diego. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
If you booked your Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Santa Barbara Municipal
Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Return price
£109
Distance
306 km
Average flight time
1 hour 4 mins

Book with confidence

Compare flights from Santa Barbara to San Diego easily and book with confidence

For travelling on business or for pleasure, Expedia makes it easy to book your flights from Santa Barbara to San Diego. Operating between them flights per day, 20 airlines cover the route. And fly direct, getting you to San Diego Intl. in just hours. If you have a preferred carrier, use our advanced search tool to find the right flight from Santa Barbara Municipal to San Diego Intl..  

To make things even better, in the advanced search, you can also choose to fly economy, premium economy, business or first class, select your maximum number of stops, and pick your preferred departure and arrival time. You can also opt for refundable and direct flights. 

Grab a great deal on your flight from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN)

The easiest way to view the best deals on flights from Santa Barbara to San Diego today is to enter your travel dates and hit search. From here, you can sort your results by price to see the cheapest flights first. Right now, return flights from Santa Barbara Municipal to San Diego Intl. start at just £109 and range up to £197.  

To find an even better deal, try  

  • being flexible on your dates – midweek flights can be cheaper
  • looking for other airports near Santa Barbara and San Diego
  • booking your flight during September, the cheapest month on this route
  • varying your flight times – early morning and late at night are sometimes cheaper 

Why you should book your Santa Barbara to San Diego flight with Expedia!

We cater for all flight types, cabin classes and airlines. So whether you’re booking flights from Santa Barbara Municipal to San Diego Intl. for a budget break or a business trip with a bit of pleasure thrown in, we make it easy to secure the seat that’s right for you.  

Thanks to our supersized inventory that offers great choice all in one place, you know you’ll get a great deal with Expedia. Especially if you bundle your flight together with your hotel, you will unlock amazing savings. For added peace of mind, you can choose flexible bookings or filter to find refundable options, so you won’t pay a fee to change your flight.  

Compare flights from Santa Barbara to San Diego easily and book with confidence

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*Available to Expedia members.