Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, Jun 18
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Jun 18

Cheapest price

$31

Average price

$32

Fastest journey

1 h 48 m

Average duration

1 h 50 m

Trains per day

39

Distance

125 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

Of the 39 trains that leave Costa Mesa, CA for San Diego, CA on Thu, Jun 18, 39 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jun 18 the direct trains cover the 125 km distance in an average of 1 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .

On Thu, Jun 18 the slowest trains will take 1 h 51 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
    1:12 PM1h55
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    3:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner
    9:12 AM1h55
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    11:07 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner
    8:12 AM1h55
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    10:07 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner
    6:12 PM1h55
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    8:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $311One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
    11:12 PM1h52
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $311One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $29.

Distance: 77 miles (125 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$30

Average price

$23

Average price

Cheapest

$25

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 23m

Average total duration

1h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 25m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $23 (€19).

This is compared to other travel options from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA:

A bus is $7 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $30 (€25).

The fastest way to travel from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 38m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Costa Mesa, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, 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 $30 (€25) compared to roughly $25 (€21) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-4.95 (€-4.04). The journey takes 1h 53m versus 1h 25m 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

Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner7:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h48
8:49 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner7:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner7:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h52
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner8:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
9:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner8:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
10:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner8:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h55
10:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner9:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
10:52 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner9:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
11:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner9:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h55
11:07 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner11:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner11:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner11:12 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h55
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner12:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
1:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner12:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
2:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner12:12 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h55
2:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner1:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner1:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner1:12 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h55
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
6:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
5:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner4:12 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
1h55
6:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24

Journey information

Overview: Train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA

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Trains from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 31 times per day, taking around 1h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

There are 30 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 77 miles (125 km) distance in 1h 55m.

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 $16 (€13)
Distance
77 miles (125 km)
Average train duration
1h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Trains per day
31
Direct trains
30
Fastest train
1h 55m
First train
3:50 AM
Last train
11:12 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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 $16 (€13)

Train companies: Amtrak from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Costa Mesa, CA and San Diego, CA from $16 (€13). 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
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
Amtrak frequency
31 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

Complete guide to San Diego

Things to do in San Diego

Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.

United States Dollar

Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.

FAQs: Trains from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Costa Mesa, 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
Train ticket prices from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $30 (€25).
The train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA takes 1h 55m and runs 31 per day.
The distance by train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is 77 miles (125 km).
The first train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The last train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 30 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Costa Mesa, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA offers scenic views as it travels along the Pacific coastline, providing passengers with picturesque ocean views, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns.
A day trip from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 55m. However, there are 26 train trips available per day covering a distance of 77 miles (125 km).
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Costa Mesa, CA nor San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA

Costa Mesa
San Diego
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available nearby with various public and private options
Dining
Dining
  • The Fish Market
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps
WC
WC
  • $1.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Westin San Diego
  • The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Santa Fe Depot
  • San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors
Dining
Dining
  • Casa Guadalajara
  • Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • $0.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • Old Town Inn
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
  • Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Old Town Station
  • Trolley: Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CACosta Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA train

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