- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 01
Cheapest price on Oct 01
$40
Average ticket price on Oct 01
$40
Fastest journey on Oct 01
4 h 57 m
Average journey duration on Oct 01
5 h 10 m
Trains on Oct 01
2
Distance
151 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Desert Hot Springs, 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 Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner7:45 AM5h22Desert Hot Springs, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$401One-way1 transfer- 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner2:10 PM4h57Desert Hot Springs, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$401One-way1 transfer
- 4985 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner2:10 PM4h57Desert Hot Springs, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$401One-way1 transfer
- 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner7:45 AM5h22Desert Hot Springs, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$401One-way1 transfer
Live departures
Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4969 NA · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 7:45 AM Desert Hot Springs, CA | 5h22 | 1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Journey information
Overview: Train from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA and enjoy the approximately 93 miles (151 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 06:01, the last at 16:10.
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
Distance 93 miles (151 km) |
First train 6:01 AM |
Last train 4:10 PM |
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
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
FAQs: Trains from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Desert Hot Springs, 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.
The distance by train from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA is 93 miles (151 km).
The first train from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 6:01 AM.
The last train from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train journey from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA offers scenic views of Southern California's diverse landscapes, including desert vistas, mountain ranges, and coastal areas, providing a varied and picturesque experience.
No, you cannot take the train from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, 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.
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 Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Most Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Palm Springs, International Airport (E Tahquitz Canyon Way) to Santa Fe Depot station pair. Use this guide to compare Desert Hot Springs, CA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Desert Hot Springs
Arrival train stations in San Diego
Which San Diego, CA station do trains from Desert Hot Springs, CA arrive at?
Trains from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA arrive at Santa Fe Depot. Santa Fe Depot is 0 miles (1 km) from San Diego, CA city centre.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min
Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services
Santa Fe Depot has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.
More options for your journey from Desert Hot Springs, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Desert Hot Springs, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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