San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA train with Amtrak

Sat 05 Sept
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Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Sept

Cheapest price on 05 Sept

£45

Average ticket price on 05 Sept

£51

Fastest journey on 05 Sept

5 h 29 m

Average journey duration on 05 Sept

5 h 37 m

Trains on 05 Sept

8

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around £51 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £45.

Fast trains

On Sat 05 Sept, we found 8 trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA, including 4 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 260 km distance in an average of 5 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 29 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 55 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.

  • Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
    16:175h29
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    21:46Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    £451One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
    6:115h32
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    11:43Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    £451One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner
    12:155h35
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    17:50Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    £451One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner
    15:306h16
    San Luis Obispo, CA
    21:46Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    £501One-way
    1 change
  • Amtrak4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner
    9:505h55
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    15:45Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    £531One-way
    1 change

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £36 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 22m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £36, while a flight costs an average of £216.

Distance: 260 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£44

Average Price

£36

Average Price

Cheapest

£216

Average Price

£28

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 4m

Average total duration

5h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 23m

Average total duration

4h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 22m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 29m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a coach with an average price of £36.

This is compared to other travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:

A coach is £8 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average £44.

A coach is £180 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average £216.

The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 22m.

Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:

Coach takes on average 4h 53m.

Train takes on average 5h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, 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 £44 compared to roughly £28 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-15.50. The journey takes 5h 34m versus 3h 29m 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

San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner16:17 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
5h29
21:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 changesdirect
Saturday 5 September
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner6:11 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
5h32
11:43 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:30 San Luis Obispo, CA
6h15
15:45 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1 change
Amtrak4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:50 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
5h55
15:45 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1 change
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner12:15 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
5h35
17:50 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak4790 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner13:30 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
6h13
19:43 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1 change
Amtrak4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner15:30 San Luis Obispo, CA
6h16
21:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1 change
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight15:37 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
5h34
21:11 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, 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.

Sat
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
Tue
08 Sept
Wed
09 Sept
Thu
10 Sept
Fri
11 Sept

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 5h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £31 but you can travel from only £22 by coach.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 260 km distance in 5h 32m.

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 £22
Distance
260 km
Average train duration
5h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
£31
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
5h 32m
First train
3:45
Last train
19:59
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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 £22

Train companies: Amtrak from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA from £22. 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
5h 32m
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 San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA from £22. 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
5h 32m
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 Los Angeles, CA

Things to do in Los Angeles, CA

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

  • Must visit

The Getty Center

Vast hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and impressive architecture overlooking the city.

  • Must visit

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Major art museum on Wilshire Boulevard with global collections, special exhibitions, and the famous Urban Light installation outside.

  • Must visit

The Broad

Downtown contemporary art museum known for broad post-war collections, bold exhibitions, and free general admission.

US dollar ($)

Los Angeles is pricier than many US cities, with high hotel, dining and transport costs, especially in tourist areas and without a car.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if there is table service.

FAQs: San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £31, while the average price tends to be around £44.
The train journey from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA covers a distance of 260 km and takes approximately 5h 32m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 260 km.
The first train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 3:45.
The last train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA departs at 19:59.
Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA run approximately 13 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train station in San Luis Obispo, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA, and it arrives at Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by coach, costing approximately £22.
Booking trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, 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 San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles is renowned for its scenic views. Travellers can enjoy stunning coastal landscapes, including vistas of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside, making it a visually delightful experience.
A day trip from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 32m. However, there are 13 train services available per day. The total distance is 260 km.
In Los Angeles, you can explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk with its eclectic shops and street performers, visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience, or take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic city views. Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture, or discover unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. For sightseeing, check out the Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views and astronomy exhibits, The Getty Center with its impressive art collection and gardens, and the Santa Monica Pier, featuring an amusement park and ocean views. Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to see star plaques of entertainment icons, or visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for diverse art collections.
For an enriching experience in Los Angeles, plan to spend at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to explore major attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, and the Getty Centre, while also enjoying the city's vibrant culture and diverse neighbourhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA

Most San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains use the San Luis Obispo Station to Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Use this guide to compare San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in San Luis Obispo
Arrival train stations in Los Angeles

Which San Luis Obispo, CA station do trains to Los Angeles, CA leave from?

Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA leave from San Luis Obispo Station. The station is 1 km from San Luis Obispo, CA city centre at 1011 Railroad Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA.
San Luis Obispo Station1011 Railroad Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to San Luis Obispo Station from San Luis Obispo city centre

Bus3A · 3m · £2 · every ~2 min

San Luis Obispo Station train station facilities and services

San Luis Obispo Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Novo Restaurant & Lounge, Firestone Grill

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at San Luis Obispo Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Luis Obispo Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at San Luis Obispo Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo Station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Apple Farm Inn, Hotel San Luis Obispo, Granada Hotel & Bistro.

San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office from San Luis Obispo city centre

San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office is 1 km from San Luis Obispo city centre. Public transport options include:

TRUE

San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office train station facilities and services

San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi is available at the station. ATMs are available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office: Station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.

More options for your journey from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Los Angeles, CA San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA train

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