Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train with Amtrak

Thu 06 Aug
+ Add return
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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  • Amtrak
    19:472h50
    Santa Barbara, CA
    22:37San Luis Obispo, CA
    £271One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    1:483h04
    Santa Barbara, CA
    4:52San Luis Obispo, CA
    £281One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    18:472h50
    Santa Barbara, CA
    21:37San Luis Obispo, CA
    £281One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 2h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £14, and a train costs an average of £23.

Distance: 130 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£28

Average Price

£26

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 16m

Average total duration

2h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak757 Pacific Surfliner7:59 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h54
10:53 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak757 Pacific Surfliner8:15 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
2h38
10:53 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner11:44 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h53
14:37 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK11:44 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
3h11
14:55 San Luis Obispo, CA1 change
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner12:00 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
2h37
14:37 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight12:15 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h37
14:52 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner17:48 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
3h04
20:52 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner18:02 Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
2h50
20:52 San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 changesdirect
Thursday 6 August
Amtrak1:48 Santa Barbara, CA
3h04
4:52 San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, 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.

Thu
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
Tue
11 Aug
Wed
12 Aug

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

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Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £23 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:11, the last at 19:16. The fastest train covers the 130 km distance in 2h 31m.

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 £14
Distance
130 km
Average train duration
2h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
£23
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
2h 31m
First train
6:11
Last train
19:16
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
21 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 £14

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA from £14. 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
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
£23
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

FAQs: Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £23, while the average price tends to be around £28.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA covers a distance of 130 km and takes approximately 2h 31m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is 130 km.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 6:11.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA departs at 19:16.
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to San Luis Obispo, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, and it arrives at San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is by coach, costing approximately £14.
Booking trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo is indeed scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque coastal cliffs, and rolling hills. Passengers can enjoy the natural beauty of California's coastline along the route.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 31m and the distance is 130 km. However, there are 6 train trips per day available.
In San Luis Obispo, CA, you can stroll through Downtown SLO, a lively area with shops, restaurants, and the famous Thursday Night Farmers' Market. Attend a performance at the historic Fremont Theater, known for its art deco architecture. For family fun, visit the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum with interactive exhibits. Wine enthusiasts can explore the local wineries and vineyards in the Edna Valley. Nature lovers will enjoy Montana de Oro State Park with its rugged cliffs and hiking trails. Don't miss the unique Bubblegum Alley, historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, the panoramic views from Bishop Peak, contemporary art at the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, and the sandy shores of Avila Beach.
To fully enjoy San Luis Obispo, 2 to 3 days are typically recommended to explore its charming downtown, beautiful beaches, nearby wineries, and scenic hiking trails.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA

Most Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to San Luis Obispo Station station pair, with some services arriving at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and San Luis Obispo, 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 San Luis Obispo

Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from?

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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+1 800-872-7245LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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, USAParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

Most popular train connections from Santa Barbara, CA

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

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Luis Obispo, CA Santa Barbara, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train

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