- Must visit
The Getty Center
Vast hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and impressive architecture overlooking the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Sept
Cheapest price on 01 Sept
£26
Average ticket price on 01 Sept
£30
Fastest journey on 01 Sept
2 h 46 m
Average journey duration on 01 Sept
2 h 50 m
Trains on 01 Sept
14
Distance
140 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around £30 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £26.
Fast trains
On Tue 01 Sept, we found 14 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA, including 13 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 54 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.
770 Pacific Surfliner6:393h07Goleta Station, Goleta, CA9:46Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:313h12Goleta Station, Goleta, CA11:43Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 790 Pacific Surfliner16:403h03Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA19:43Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 786 Pacific Surfliner14:473h03Goleta Station, Goleta, CA17:50Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 782 Pacific Surfliner12:293h16Goleta Station, Goleta, CA15:45Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 786 Pacific Surfliner15:042h46Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA17:50Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 794 Pacific Surfliner19:002h46Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA21:46Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 11 Coast Starlight18:192h52Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA21:11Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£311One-way0 changes
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:532h53Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:46Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:492h54Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:43Union Station, Los Angeles, CA£261One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £23 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 2h 51m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £23, while a train costs an average of £25.
Distance: 140 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£25 Average Price | £23 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 31m Average total duration 3h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Monday 31 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:15 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 9h31 | 21:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 change | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:29 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h16 | 15:45 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:45 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 3h00 | 15:45 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 14:47 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h03 | 17:50 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 15:04 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h46 | 17:50 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 16:25 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h18 | 19:43 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 16:40 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 3h03 | 19:43 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11 Coast Starlight | 18:19 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h52 | 21:11 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 18:38 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h08 | 21:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 19:00 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h46 | 21:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:39 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h07 | 9:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:53 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h53 | 9:46 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:31 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h12 | 11:43 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:49 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h54 | 11:43 Union Station, Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Tue
01 Sept
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept
04 Sept
Sat
05 Sept
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
07 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 140 km distance in 2h 46m.
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 £11
Distance 140 km |
Average train duration 3h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price £19 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 2h 46m |
First train 5:13 |
Last train 19:59 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 £11
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA from £11. 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
2h 46m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£19
Amtrak frequency
6 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 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
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.
- Must visit
Venice Beach
Famous beachfront district with canals, skate culture, broad sands, and a lively promenade ideal for people-watching and walks.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Santa Monica pier area with ocean views, amusements, beach paths, and an easy-going coastal atmosphere.
- Recommended
Griffith Park
Large urban park with hiking trails, picnic grounds, viewpoints, and access to several of the city’s best-known attractions.
French Dip
French dip sandwich with thin-sliced roast beef in a roll, served with meat jus for dipping. A classic Los Angeles lunch linked to the city’s early 20th-century diners.
- Gluten-free
Hard-Shell Tacos
Crisp hard-shell tacos filled with beef, lettuce and cheese. This Mexican-American staple became a defining everyday food across Los Angeles.
Danger Dog
Smoked bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with peppers, onions, mayonnaise, ketchup and mustard. A famous late-night street food around Los Angeles venues.
Langer's Delicatessen
Long-running Jewish deli famous for hot pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup and classic diner fare in a traditional setting.
Leo's Taco Truck
Lively taqueria known for tacos al pastor sliced from the spit. Informal, fast-paced and deeply tied to Los Angeles taco culture.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown deli famed for French dip sandwiches. Casual, bustling and ideal for a classic Los Angeles lunch.
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: Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £25.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA covers a distance of 140 km and takes approximately 2h 46m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 140 km.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 5:13.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA departs at 19:59.
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA. The service operates 11 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, and it arrives at Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by coach, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara to Los Angeles offers scenic views, featuring picturesque coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, providing a visually appealing experience for travellers.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 46m. However, there are 11 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 140 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara
Arrival train stations in Los Angeles
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Los Angeles, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
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.
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.
Which Los Angeles, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Los Angeles, CA arrival station.
Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre
TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · £757
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · £809
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · £408
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station7720 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Van Nuys, Metrolink Station from Los Angeles city centre
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 30m · £5
VC Line · 31m · £6
Bus20 · 2h 30m · £4 · every ~8 min
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station train station facilities and services
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.
Chatsworth Station10046 Old Depot Plaza Road, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Chatsworth Station from Los Angeles city centre
Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 45m · £7
VC Line · 48m · £7
Bus419 · 1h 16m · £4
419 · 1h 27m · £4
Metro G Line · 1h 36m · £4 · every ~11 min
Chatsworth Station train station facilities and services
Chatsworth Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chatsworth Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatsworth Station: Ramps, restrooms.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Los Angeles, CA
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