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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£31
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£32
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
4 h 18 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
4 h 20 m
Trains on 18 Sept
4
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around £32 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 4 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 192 km distance in an average of 4 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 18 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 22 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.
16:494h22Santa Barbara, CA21:11Irvine, CA£311One-way0 changes- 14:534h18Santa Barbara, CA19:11Irvine, CA£321One-way0 changes
- 15:494h22Santa Barbara, CA20:11Irvine, CA£321One-way0 changes
- 13:534h18Santa Barbara, CA18:11Irvine, CA£331One-way0 changes
- 14:534h18Santa Barbara, CA19:11Irvine, CA£321One-way0 changes
- 13:534h18Santa Barbara, CA18:11Irvine, CA£331One-way0 changes
- 16:494h22Santa Barbara, CA21:11Irvine, CA£311One-way0 changes
- 15:494h22Santa Barbara, CA20:11Irvine, CA£321One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £33 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 4h 18m. 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 train costs an average of £33, while a coach costs an average of £62.
Distance: 192 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£33 Average Price Cheapest | £62 Average Price | £21 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 59m Average total duration 4h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is a train with an average price of £33.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA:
A train is £30 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average £62.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is by coach with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
Other travel options to Irvine, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a coach and train.
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 £33 compared to roughly £21 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-12.06. The journey takes 4h 29m versus 2h 28m 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
Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13:53 Santa Barbara, CA | 4h18 | 18:11 Irvine, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
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23 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:49, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 192 km distance in 4h 18m.
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
Distance 192 km |
Average train duration 4h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price £32 |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 5:49 |
Last train 19:00 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA from £32. 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
4h 18m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£32
Amtrak frequency
4 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA from £32. 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
4h 18m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£32
Amtrak frequency
4 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.
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 Irvine, CA
Things to do in Irvine, CA
Discover the best of Irvine, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Pretend City Children's Museum
Hands-on children’s museum with interactive exhibits on art, science and everyday life, ideal for families visiting Irvine.
- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
University art museum presenting changing exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, plus talks and public programmes.
U.S. Submarine Veterans WWII National Museum West
Small specialist museum exploring undersea warfare history with submarine models, artefacts and educational displays.
- Must visit
Great Park
Large urban park with a tethered balloon, sports areas, gardens and walking paths on the former marine base site.
- Recommended
Bommer Canyon
Woodland canyon preserve with shaded trails, oak groves and a stream, popular for peaceful walks close to the city.
- Recommended
Mason Regional Park
Popular open-space park with a lake, scenic loop paths and broad lawns for relaxing, birdwatching and easy walks.
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos reflect Southern California coastal cooking: battered or grilled fish in tortillas with cabbage, salsa and crema. A local staple across Orange County.
California Burrito
California burritos are a regional favourite stuffed with carne asada, chips, cheese and salsa. They show the area’s Mexican and SoCal fast-casual food culture.
Poke Bowl
Poke bowls are widely eaten in Irvine, shaped by Hawaiian and Pacific influence. Raw marinated fish with rice and toppings suits the region’s fresh, casual style.
HiroNori Craft Ramen
Popular Japanese specialist for premium ramen and tsukemen. Expect rich broths, long queues and a lively contemporary dining room.
Din Tai Fung
Busy casual restaurant known for refined northern Chinese dishes, especially xiao long bao and noodles, in a polished modern setting.
Gulliver's Prime Ribs of Beef
Stylish steakhouse in Diamond Jamboree serving Japanese-style grilled meats and set meals in a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
US dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Public transport is limited, so car hire or ride-hailing often adds to visitor spending.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 for café drinks if there is table service. Counter-service tips are optional.
FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £32, while the average price tends to be around £33.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA covers a distance of 192 km and takes approximately 4h 18m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train distance from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is 192 km.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 5:49.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA departs at 19:00.
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA run approximately 15 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
To get from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Irvine, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, and it arrives at Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is by train, costing approximately £32.
Booking trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Santa Barbara to Irvine offers scenic views, featuring coastal landscapes, ocean vistas, and glimpses of charming Californian towns along the Pacific coast.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is not feasible because the journey takes 4h 18m. Trains operate 14 times per day over a distance of 192 km.
In Irvine, CA, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including seasonal tours and fresh produce picking at Tanaka Farms, and diverse performances at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Nature enthusiasts can explore the serene San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary and the expansive William R. Mason Regional Park, which offers picnic areas, walking trails, and paddle boating. For thrill-seekers, there's indoor go-kart racing at K1 Speed. Notable sights include the Orange County Great Park with its sports facilities and panoramic helium balloon ride, and the Irvine Spectrum Center, a hub for shopping and entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate hiking in Bommer Canyon, while families can enjoy the interactive exhibits at Pretend City Children's Museum. Art lovers can visit the Irvine Museum to admire California Impressionist art.
To fully explore Irvine, CA, including its parks, museums, and shopping areas, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Irvine Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santa Barbara
Arrival train stations in Irvine
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Irvine, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leave from Santa Barbara Station. The station is 1 km from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at 209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA.
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 CaliforniaSanta Barbara, CA 93106, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, University of California from Santa Barbara city centre
Santa Barbara, University of California is 13 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Barbara, University of California train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, University of California has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court located nearby on campus.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available for passengers. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, University of California.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.
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.
Which Irvine, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA arrive at Irvine Station. Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine, CA city centre.
Irvine Station15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Irvine Station from Irvine city centre
Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOC Line, IE-OC Line · 7m · £5 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 24m · £2 · every ~1 min
86 · 25m · £2 · every ~1 min
86 · 28m · £2 · every ~1 min
Irvine Station train station facilities and services
Irvine Station 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: Del Frisco's Grille, The Cheesecake Factory
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Irvine Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Irvine Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Irvine Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Irvine Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum, DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum.
Most popular train connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Irvine, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Irvine, CA
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