- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with strong American, Asian, and European collections in a prominent downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for May 30
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$70
Fastest journey
4 h 38 m
Average duration
7 h 54 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
205 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.
9:11 AM4h38Aliso Viejo, CA1:49 PMSanta Barbara, CA$631One-way1 transfer- 12:12 PM5h34Aliso Viejo, CA5:46 PMSanta Barbara, CA$631One-way1 transfer
- 3:18 PM6h41Aliso Viejo, CA9:59 PMSanta Barbara, CA$771One-way1 transfer
- 7:14 PM14h41Aliso Viejo, CA9:55 AMSanta Barbara, CA$771One-way1 transfer
- 9:11 AM4h38Aliso Viejo, CA1:49 PMSanta Barbara, CA$631One-way1 transfer
- 12:12 PM5h34Aliso Viejo, CA5:46 PMSanta Barbara, CA$631One-way1 transfer
- 3:18 PM6h41Aliso Viejo, CA9:59 PMSanta Barbara, CA$771One-way1 transfer
- 7:14 PM14h41Aliso Viejo, CA9:55 AMSanta Barbara, CA$771One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 22m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a train costs an average of $63.
Distance: 127 miles (205 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 52m Average total duration Fastest 4h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 29h 58m Average total duration 29h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $36 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $66 (€54).
The fastest way to travel from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 22m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 29h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Aliso Viejo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
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 $66 (€54) compared to roughly $30 (€25) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-36.10 (€-29.10). The journey takes 4h 22m versus 2h 34m 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
Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Friday, May 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:27 PM Aliso Viejo, CA | 14h28 | 9:55 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, May 30 | |||||
| 9:11 AM Aliso Viejo, CA | 4h38 | 1:49 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 12:12 PM Aliso Viejo, CA | 5h34 | 5:46 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 3:18 PM Aliso Viejo, CA | 6h41 | 9:59 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 (€51) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:02, the last at 19:27. The fastest train covers the 127 miles (205 km) distance in 4h 12m.
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
Bus from $36 (€29)
Distance 127 miles (205 km) |
Average train duration 4h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 (€51) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 4h 12m |
First train 5:02 AM |
Last train 7:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Bus from $36 (€29)
Train companies: Amtrak, Metrolink Trains from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak, Metrolink Trains trains will get you between Aliso Viejo, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $36 (€29). 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
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€35)
Amtrak frequency
15 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
Metrolink Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€51)
Metrolink Trains frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Santa Barbara
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
- Recommended
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families for interactive exhibits and rooftop activities.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Compact waterfront museum covering regional seafaring history, Channel maritime culture, and local ocean exploration.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Classic waterfront promenade with ocean views, harbor access, and one of the city’s most recognizable settings.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor for walking, shopping, people-watching, and easy access to major attractions.
- Must visit
Lotusland
Celebrated botanical garden estate in Montecito with extraordinary themed gardens; advance reservations are typical.
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Central Coast barbecue tradition featuring oak-grilled beef tri-tip, often served with pinquito beans, salsa, and garlic bread. It is one of the region's most iconic local meals.
Tri-Tip Sandwich
A beloved local sandwich made with sliced Santa Maria-style tri-tip on bread, commonly found at casual grills and roadside spots across the area.
- Gluten-free
Spot Prawns
Seasonal local prawns from the Santa Barbara Channel, prized for their sweetness and delicate texture. They are a standout coastal seafood specialty when available.
Toma Restaurant & Bar Santa Barbara
Respected waterfront-adjacent restaurant specializing in Italian-inspired coastal cuisine, pasta, and polished service.
The Lark Santa Barbara
Well-known New American restaurant in the Funk Zone with stylish interiors, seasonal ingredients, and strong local wine offerings.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Established Spanish restaurant serving paella, tapas, and cocktails in an elegant but energetic downtown setting.
United States Dollar
Santa Barbara is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but most visitors spend more than in many other California cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or tacos.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff, and USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Tipping is expected for service.
FAQs: Trains from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63 (€51), while the average price is around $66 (€54).
The train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 4h 12m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 127 miles (205 km).
The first train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:02 AM.
The last train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:27 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Aliso Viejo, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is San Juan Capistrano Station, San Juan Capistrano, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA offers scenic views, including picturesque coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, making it a visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 12m. There are 15 train trips per day available for this route.
In Santa Barbara, CA, visitors can explore State Street for shopping, dining, and entertainment, visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley. For outdoor activities, enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains and visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Best sights include the historic Santa Barbara Mission, Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Santa Barbara Zoo, and the unique Lotusland botanical garden.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Santa Barbara, CA is ideal to explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant downtown, and cultural attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Aliso Viejo, CA nor Santa Barbara, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Santa Barbara, CA include Ventura, CA, Camarillo, CA, Oxnard, CA, Simi Valley, CA, Moorpark, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Santa Barbara, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like State Street and the waterfront. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use authorized transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Aliso Viejo
Santa Barbara
Amenities at train station
Lockers
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Dining
- The Lark
- Santo Mezcal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Hotel Californian
- Harbor View Inn
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
More options for your journey from Aliso Viejo, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
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Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Aliso Viejo, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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