- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- €81
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- €93
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 9 h 3 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 9 h 35 m
- Trains on Nov 02
- 4
- Distance
- 448 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around €93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €81.
Fast trains
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 4 trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct trains cover the 448 km distance in an average of 9 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 3 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest trains will take 9 h 57 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.
11 Coast Starlight9:09 AM 9h03 Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €81 1 One-way 0 transfers- 11 Coast Starlight
8:39 AM 9h33 Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €82 1 One-way 0 transfers - 712 Gold Runner · 5612 Connecting Bus
10:18 AM 9h57 Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA 8:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €105 1 One-way 1 transfer - 712 Gold Runner · 5612 Connecting Bus
10:28 AM 9h47 Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA 8:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €105 1 One-way 1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight
9:09 AM 9h03 Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €81 1 One-way 0 transfers - 11 Coast Starlight
8:39 AM 9h33 Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €82 1 One-way 0 transfers - 712 Gold Runner · 5612 Connecting Bus
10:28 AM 9h47 Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA 8:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €105 1 One-way 1 transfer - 712 Gold Runner · 5612 Connecting Bus
10:18 AM 9h57 Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA 8:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA €105 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €62 but you can travel from only €57 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 278 miles (448 km) distance in 9h 3m.
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 €57
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance278 miles (448 km)
- Average train duration9h 18m
- Cheapest ticket price€62
- Trains per day2
- Direct trains2
- Fastest train9h 3m
- First train6:44 AM
- Last train10:20 PM
- Cheapest MonthOct
- Cheapest DayMon
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonJul - Sep
- Best time to book2 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
- Why book with Omio?Compare options, payment & support
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 €57
Frequently asked questions about your Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Train ticket prices from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €62, while the average price is around €115.
The train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 9h 3m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:44 AM.
The distance by train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 278 miles (448 km).
The last train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Live departures
Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Coast Starlight | 8:39 AM Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA | 9h33 | 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11 Coast Starlight | 9:09 AM Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA | 9h03 | 6:12 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies
Train companies from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Amtrak. Night trains available on this route with Amtrak. High-speed trains available on this route with Amtrak. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
9h 3m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€62
Amtrak frequency
2 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
Complete guide to Santa Barbara, CA
Things to do in Santa Barbara, CA
Discover the best of Santa Barbara, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
- Must visit
Cabrillo Boulevard
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Harbor
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Uni
Fresh sea urchin roe landed from the Santa Barbara Channel. Briny, sweet, and prized because the region is one of California's best-known uni sources.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Barbareño
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
The Lark
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Brophy Bros.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
US Dollar ($)
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
Plan your visit to Santa Barbara, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the train journey from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes along California's coast.
Popular day trips by train from Santa Barbara, CA include Ventura, CA, Camarillo, CA, Oxnard, CA, Simi Valley, CA, Moorpark, CA.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berkeley, 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Most Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the to Santa Barbara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Berkeley
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from Berkeley, CA arrive at?
Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Santa Barbara Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Berkeley, CA
Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Berkeley, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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