Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Fri 05 Dec
+ Add return
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for 06 Dec

Cheapest price

£37

Average price

£48

Fastest journey

5 h 53 m

Average duration

6 h 1 m

Trains per day

19

Distance

302 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA will cost around £48 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £37.

Fast trains

Of the 19 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for San Diego, CA every day 15 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 6 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 53 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 7 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.

Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
08:496h15
Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
15:04Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
£371One-way
0 changes
Amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner
13:456h19
Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
20:04Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
£371One-way
0 changes
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
18:576h07
Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
01:04Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
£371One-way
0 changes
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
18:575h53
Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
00:50Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£371One-way
0 changes
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner
16:336h15
Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
22:48Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£371One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £21, and a flight costs an average of £236.

Distance: 302 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£37

Average Price

£36

Average Price

Cheapest

£279

Average Price

6h 40m

Average total duration

6h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 37m

Average total duration

6h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 43m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 1.8kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Friday 5 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 06:36
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner14:39 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h28
21:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner14:53 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h14
21:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner14:53 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h00
20:53 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner16:31 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h33
23:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner16:49 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h15
23:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner16:49 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h01
22:50 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner20:21 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
12h29
08:50 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner20:21 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
12h43
09:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner21:31 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h33
04:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner21:45 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h19
04:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner21:45 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h05
03:50 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
Saturday 6 December
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner00:18 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h46
07:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner00:33 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h15
06:48 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner00:33 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h31
07:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner02:19 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h31
08:50 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner02:19 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h45
09:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner02:38 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h26
09:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner02:57 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h07
09:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner02:57 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
5h53
08:50 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 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 San Diego, CA by coach, train or flight

Compare coach, train 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
06 Dec
Sun
07 Dec
Mon
08 Dec
Tue
09 Dec
Wed
10 Dec
Thu
11 Dec
Fri
12 Dec

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA?

The best time to book your train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £21 by coach.

There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 18:57. The fastest train covers the 302 km distance in 6h 14m.

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 £21
Distance
302 km
Average train duration
6h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
£36
Trains per day
16
Direct trains
12
Fastest train
6h 14m
First train
03:50
Last train
18:57
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 £21

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA from £21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 14m
Cheapest Price
£36
Amtrak frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and enjoy a harbour cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships. Hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation, and experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast. Discover Balboa Park with its museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, explore the USS Midway Museum, and take in the picturesque views at La Jolla Cove. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Gaslamp Quarter and relax at Coronado Beach.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is considered scenic, offering passengers views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque beaches, charming coastal towns, and rolling hills throughout much of the route.
To fully explore San Diego, CA, and enjoy its main attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and the beaches, a stay of three to five days is typically recommended.
Booking trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible, as the journey takes 6h 14m. The frequency is 16 per day for trains, covering a distance of 302 km.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is by coach, costing approximately £21.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA covers a distance of 302 km and takes approximately 6h 14m. Trains run 16 per day.
The cost of a train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £37.
The train distance from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is 302 km.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, and it arrives at Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA departs at 18:57.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50.
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA run approximately 16 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA. The service operates 12 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
To get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA

Santa Barbara
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara Station for your trip from Santa Barbara to San Diego.
Santa Barbara StationLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Dining
Dining
  • The Lark
  • Santo Mezcal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Californian
  • Harbor View Inn
  • Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
Public transport options for Santa Barbara Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
Goleta StationParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
1
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available adjacent to the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Dining
Dining
  • The Habit Burger Grill
  • Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • Free for passengers
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
  • Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the platform
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station consists of a single platform with a waiting area and parking facilities nearby.
Public transport options for Goleta Station
  • Bus: Santa Barbara MTD Line 6, Line 11
Santa Barbara, University of California
information

More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

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

Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA

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