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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£91
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£102
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
8 h 51 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
9 h 38 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
441 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA will cost around £102 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £91.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 441 km distance in an average of 9 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 51 m .
The slowest trains will take 10 h 24 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.
5619 · 71912:0010h24Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA22:24Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA£911One-way1 change- 1412:158h51Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA21:06Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA£1131One-way0 changes
- 1412:158h51Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA21:06Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA£1131One-way0 changes
- 5619 · 71912:0010h24Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA22:24Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA£911One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £44 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 8h 55m. 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 £44, while a train costs an average of £71.
Distance: 441 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£71 Average Price | £44 Average Price Cheapest | £48 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 18m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration Fastest 8h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Oakland, CA is a coach with an average price of £44.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA:
A coach is £27 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA costing on average £71.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is by coach with an average journey time of 8h 25m.
Other travel options to Oakland, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 8h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA including taking a train and coach.
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 £71 compared to roughly £48 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-22.60. The journey takes 8h 48m versus 4h 57m 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 Oakland, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19:00 Santa Barbara, CA | 10h24 | 5:24 Oakland, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19:21 Santa Barbara, CA | 8h45 | 4:06 Oakland, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 20:21 Santa Barbara, CA | 8h45 | 5:06 Oakland, 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 Oakland, 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.
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
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23 Sept
23 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £60 but you can travel from only £34 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 22:41. The fastest train covers the 441 km distance in 8h 45m.
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 £34
Distance 441 km |
Average train duration 8h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price £60 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 8h 45m |
First train 6:00 |
Last train 22:41 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 3 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 £34
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA from £34. 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
8h 45m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£37
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Oakland, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA from £34. 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
8h 45m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£37
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Oakland, CA
Things to do in Oakland, CA
Discover the best of Oakland, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oakland, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Oakland Museum of California
Hands-on natural science museum beside Lake Merritt with live animals, regional ecology exhibits and a planetarium. Excellent for families and curious adults.
- Recommended
Mills College Art Museum
University museum and gallery with art and history displays on campus. A quieter stop for visitors interested in local collections and changing exhibitions.
Golden State Bonsai Federation Collection North
Museum and garden dedicated to bonsai and related arts. A peaceful, specialist collection that offers a distinctive cultural stop in the city.
- Must visit
Lake Merritt
Large tidal lake ringed by paths, gardens and civic landmarks. Ideal for walking, boating, birdwatching and experiencing one of Oakland’s classic views.
- Must visit
Jack London Square
Working waterfront district with promenades, shops, ferry access and broad estuary views. Popular for an easy walk and a lively sense of place.
- Recommended
Redwood Regional Park
Redwood grove and streamside trails in the Oakland Hills. A favourite local escape for cooler air, shaded walks and scenery close to the city.
Hot Link Sandwich
A smoked sausage hot link, often served on sliced white bread with sauce. It is a long-standing East Bay comfort food tied to Oakland barbecue culture.
Chicken And Waffles
Crisp fried chicken paired with a waffle and syrup. A beloved soul food combination widely associated with Oakland’s historic comfort-food scene.
Barbecue Pork Ribs
Slow-cooked pork ribs with smoky, sweet or peppery sauce. Barbecue is deeply rooted in Oakland and the wider East Bay’s family-run restaurant culture.
Commis
Refined restaurant focused on seasonal Californian cooking, with a polished dining room and ingredients sourced from the wider Bay Area.
Kowbird
Popular casual counter for crisp fried chicken and waffles, with hearty soul food flavours and a lively neighbourhood feel.
Tacos Sinaloa
Bustling taqueria celebrated for tacos, burritos and late-night Mexican staples in a straightforward, local setting.
United States dollar ($)
Oakland is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining and local transport are moderate to high, though budget eats and BART help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 for café drinks if there is table service. Some venues add service charges, so check the bill first.
FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £60, while the average price tends to be around £71.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA covers a distance of 441 km and takes approximately 8h 45m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is 441 km.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 6:00.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA departs at 22:41.
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Oakland, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, and it arrives at Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is by coach, costing approximately £34.
Booking trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland offers scenic views, including the picturesque California coastline, lush vineyards, and rolling hills. Passengers can enjoy the diverse landscapes and natural beauty along the route.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 8h 45m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day covering a distance of 441 km.
In Oakland, CA, you can visit the vibrant Temescal Alley for unique shops and eateries, explore the historic USS Potomac, and enjoy a performance at the beautifully restored Fox Theatre. Discover diverse flavours at the Oakland First Fridays street festival, or take a scenic bike ride along the Bay Trail. For sights, stroll around Lake Merritt, explore the Oakland Museum of California, or enjoy Jack London Square's waterfront offerings. Don't miss hiking at Redwood Regional Park or visiting the Chabot Space and Science Centre for stargazing and interactive exhibits.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Oakland, CA, is typically sufficient to explore its vibrant neighbourhoods, visit popular attractions such as Jack London Square and the Oakland Museum of California, and enjoy local dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Jack London Square station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Oakland, 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 Oakland
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Oakland, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, 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.
Which Oakland, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA most often arrive at Jack London Square. Some services arrive at Emeryville Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Oakland, CA arrival station.
Jack London Square245 Second Street, Oakland, CA 94607, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Jack London Square from Oakland city centre
Jack London Square is 1 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAC Transit lines 12, 72, 72M
FerrySan Francisco Bay Ferry
Jack London Square train station facilities and services
Jack London Square has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Yoshi's Oakland, Scott's Seafood Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jack London Square. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jack London Square. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jack London Square: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jack London Square: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jack London Square: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Waterfront Hotel, Z Hotel Jack London Square, Executive Inn & Suites.
Most popular train connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Oakland, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Oakland, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Oakland, CA
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