Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, Nov 06
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$46

Average price

$47

Fastest journey

4 h 52 m

Average duration

4 h 57 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

258 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carlsbad, 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 Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Carlsbad, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Fri, Nov 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 258 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .

On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 5 h 1 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.

Amtrak
08:57PM5h01
Carlsbad, CA
01:58AMSanta Barbara, CA
$461One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak
03:57PM4h52
Carlsbad, CA
08:49PMSanta Barbara, CA
$471One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €38, and a flight costs an average of €183.

Distance: 160 miles (258 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€38

Average price

Cheapest

€285

Average price

€39

Average price

5h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 55m

Average total duration

5h 55m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 14m

Average total duration

5h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:32 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner12:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h12
6:09 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner12:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
4h58
5:55 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner2:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
4h53
7:50 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight2:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h17
8:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner2:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h06
8:03 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight2:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h17
8:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK2:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h13
8:10 PM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner4:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
4h52
9:49 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner4:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h05
10:02 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK4:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h18
10:15 PM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
amtrak779 Pacific Surfliner9:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h17
3:14 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak779 Pacific Surfliner9:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h01
2:58 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect
Friday, November 7
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK12:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h23
6:20 AM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner12:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h15
6:12 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner12:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA
5h02
5:59 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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.

Fri
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13

Journey information

Overview: Train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train
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 $28 (€23)
Distance
160 miles (258 km)
Average train duration
4h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$47 (€38)
Trains per day
14
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
4h 52m
First train
04:57
Last train
18:57

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA start from as low as $47 (€38) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $47 (€38) depending on the train type and class.
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 $28 (€23)

Train companies: Amtrak from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Carlsbad, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $28 (€23). 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 52m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
Amtrak frequency
14 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: Trains from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlsbad, 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.

FAQs
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Santa Barbara, CA is ideal to explore its beautiful beaches, vibrant downtown, and cultural attractions.
Train ticket prices from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€38), while the average price is around $47 (€38).
The distance by train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 160 miles (258 km).
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.
The cheapest way to get from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
The first train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 4:57 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 4h 52m and runs 14 per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Carlsbad, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The last train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, the train journey from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque coastal towns, and lush landscapes along the way.
A day trip from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 52m each way, covering a distance of 160 miles (258 km). Trains operate 14 times per day.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Carlsbad, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Carlsbad
Santa Barbara
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 transit 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 transit options for Goleta Station
  • Bus: Santa Barbara MTD Line 6, Line 11
Santa Barbara, University of California
information
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