Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train with Amtrak

Fri 18 Sept
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Amtrak
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Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£45

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£62

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

9 h 3 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

9 h 33 m

Trains on 18 Sept

4

Distance

448 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around £62 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £45.

Fast trains

On Fri 18 Sept, we found 4 trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 4 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 448 km distance in an average of 9 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 3 m .

The slowest trains will take 9 h 47 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.

  • Amtrak
    15:399h33
    Berkeley, CA
    1:12Santa Barbara, CA
    £451One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    16:099h03
    Berkeley, CA
    1:12Santa Barbara, CA
    £621One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    18:289h47
    Berkeley, CA
    4:15Santa Barbara, CA
    £681One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    17:289h47
    Berkeley, CA
    3:15Santa Barbara, CA
    £721One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £40 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £40, while a flight costs an average of £219.

Distance: 448 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Coach
Driving

£70

Average Price

£219

Average Price

£40

Average Price

Cheapest

£49

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 4m

Average total duration

9h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 21m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

8h 50m

Average total duration

8h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.3 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a coach with an average price of £40.

This is compared to other travel options from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:

A coach is £30 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average £70.

A coach is £179 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average £219.

The fastest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 21m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Coach takes on average 8h 20m.

Train takes on average 9h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around £70 compared to roughly £49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-21.65. The journey takes 9h 34m versus 5h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak17:28 Berkeley, CA
9h47
3:15 Santa Barbara, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak18:28 Berkeley, CA
9h47
4:15 Santa Barbara, CA0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 9 times per day, taking around 9h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £70 but you can travel from only £31 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 448 km distance in 9h 47m.

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
Coach from £31
Distance
448 km
Average train duration
9h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
£70
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
9h 47m
First train
6:44
Last train
22:20
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Best time to book
2 days
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
Coach from £31

Train companies: Amtrak from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from £31. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
9h 39m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£31
Amtrak frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

Train companies: Amtrak from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from £31. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
9h 39m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£31
Amtrak frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

What's included in each class

Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.

Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Business Class Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
  • WC
Business Travel Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access

Complete guide to Santa Barbara, CA

Things to do in Santa Barbara, CA

Discover the best of Santa Barbara, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Major art museum with American, Asian and European works. A strong central stop for varied collections in a handsome downtown setting.

  • Recommended

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Engaging natural history museum with regional exhibits, astronomy and family-friendly displays. A good choice near Mission Canyon.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

Contemporary art museum on State Street showing rotating exhibitions. Best for visitors interested in current visual culture and smaller-scale galleries.

US dollar ($)

Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Public transport is modestly priced, but tourist areas and coastal restaurants raise daily spend.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 15-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Round up or tip 10% for taxis. Tip $1-2 for café drinks only if there is table service.

FAQs: Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £70, while the average price tends to be around £70.
The train journey from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA covers a distance of 448 km and takes approximately 9h 47m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 448 km.
The first train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:44.
The last train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA departs at 22:20.
Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Berkeley, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Berkeley Station, Berkeley, CA, and it arrives at Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by coach, costing approximately £31.
Booking trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes along the California coastline.
A day trip from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 9h 47m. There are 8 trains per day covering a distance of 448 km.
In Santa Barbara, CA, you can explore State Street with its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment, or visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art for a diverse collection of artwork. Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards. Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains for breathtaking views, or visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum to learn about the region's maritime history. For sights, the Santa Barbara Mission offers stunning architecture and gardens, while Stearns Wharf provides shops and ocean views. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden showcases native plants, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers family-friendly animal exhibits, and Lotusland features exotic botanical gardens.
Three to four days in Santa Barbara, CA, is ideal to explore the key attractions, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA

Most Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Jack London Square to Santa Barbara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Berkeley
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara

Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from Berkeley, CA arrive at?

Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Santa Barbara Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Barbara Station from Santa Barbara city centre

Bus33 · 5m · £2 · every ~2 min

Santa Barbara Station train station facilities and services

Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.

More options for your journey from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Santa Barbara, CA Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train

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