- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for 04 Aug
Cheapest price
£34
Average price
£35
Fastest journey
4 h 48 m
Average duration
4 h 48 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
254 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oceanside, 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around £35 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Oceanside, CA for Santa Barbara, CA every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 254 km distance in an average of 4 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 48 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 48 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.
20:574h48Oceanside, CA1:45Santa Barbara, CA£341One-way0 changes- 19:574h48Oceanside, CA0:45Santa Barbara, CA£351One-way0 changes
- 20:574h48Oceanside, CA1:45Santa Barbara, CA£341One-way0 changes
- 19:574h48Oceanside, CA0:45Santa Barbara, CA£351One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £31. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £31, and a flight costs an average of £83.
Distance: 254 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£34 Average Price | £31 Average Price Cheapest | £196 Average Price |
5h 26m Average total duration Fastest 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 27m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 47m Average total duration 5h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19:57 Oceanside, CA | 4h48 | 0:45 Santa Barbara, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:57 Oceanside, CA | 4h48 | 1:45 Santa Barbara, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Oceanside, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 but you can travel from only £31 by coach.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:57, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 254 km distance in 4h 48m.
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 254 km |
Average train duration 4h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 4h 48m |
First train 4:57 |
Last train 19:00 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 28 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Oceanside, 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 Duration
4h 48m
Cheapest Price
£33
Amtrak frequency
5 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
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.
- 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.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively downtown pedestrian-friendly stretch with shops, historic architecture and regular people-watching. Ideal for browsing and an easy city walk.
- Recommended
West Beach
Waterfront neighbourhood with beaches, harbour access and a long palm-lined promenade. Excellent for walking, cycling and sunset views.
- Recommended
Franceschi Park
Scenic hillside viewpoint reached by a short hike or drive. Popular for panoramic views over the city, coastline and Channel Islands on clear days.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Sea Urchin (Uni)
Grilled local sea urchin roe served fresh from nearby waters. It is a prized Santa Barbara coastal delicacy known for its sweet, creamy taste.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Fresh spot prawns from the Santa Barbara Channel, often simply grilled or sautéed. They are celebrated for their sweet flavour and short seasonal availability.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobster from local waters, commonly grilled or roasted. It is a classic regional seafood treat during the local lobster season.
Los Agaves
Lively Mexican restaurant famous for tacos, grilled seafood and vibrant salsas. A dependable choice near the waterfront.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Refined seafood restaurant on Stearns Wharf known for local catch, ocean views and a polished but relaxed setting.
Lucky's
Elegant steakhouse and seafood restaurant focused on premium ingredients, classic service and a special-occasion atmosphere.
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: Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oceanside, 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £34.
The train journey from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA covers a distance of 254 km and takes approximately 4h 48m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train distance from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 254 km.
The first train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 4:57.
The last train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA departs at 19:00.
Trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run approximately 14 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Oceanside, CA and Santa Barbara, CA. The service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Oceanside, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA, and it arrives at Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by coach, costing approximately £31.
Booking trains from Oceanside, 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is indeed scenic. Travellers can enjoy picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, charming coastal towns, and rolling hills along the way, making it a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 48m. Trains operate 13 times per day over a distance of 254 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Oceanside, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Oceanside Transportation Center to Santa Barbara Station station pair, with some services arriving at Santa Barbara, University of California. Use this guide to compare Oceanside, 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 Oceanside
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which Oceanside, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Oceanside Transportation Center. The station is from Oceanside, CA city centre at 235 S. Tremont Street, Oceanside, CA 92054, USA.
Oceanside Transportation Center235 S. Tremont Street, Oceanside, CA 92054, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Oceanside Transportation Center from Oceanside city centre
Bus303, 313, 392, 395 · 2m · £4 · every ~9 min
Oceanside Transportation Center train station facilities and services
Oceanside Transportation Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Harbor Fish & Chips, 333 Pacific
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oceanside Transportation Center. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Oceanside Transportation Center. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oceanside Transportation Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oceanside Transportation Center: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oceanside Transportation Center: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Oceanside/Downtown, Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort, Best Western Plus Oceanside Palms.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from Oceanside, CA arrive at?
Trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA most often arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Some services arrive at Santa Barbara, University of California, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Santa Barbara, CA arrival station.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245
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.
Santa Barbara, University of California
Goleta Station25 South La Patera Lane, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Goleta Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 14m · £3
Bus12X, 6 · 53m · £2 · every ~5 min
Goleta Station train station facilities and services
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Most popular train connections from Oceanside, CA
More options for your journey from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Oceanside, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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