Students! Get 15% off your first app booking and 5% off all future trips.

El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Jan 16
+ Add return
Amtrak
Metrolink Trains
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Metrolink Trains
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times and prices for Jan 16

Cheapest price

$92

Average price

$92

Fastest journey

3 h 8 m

Average duration

3 h 27 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

158 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from El Monte, 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 El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least once.

Metrolink Trains
06:36AM3h19
El Monte, CA
09:55AMSanta Barbara, CA
$921One-way
1 transfer
Metrolink Trains
08:06AM3h44
El Monte, CA
11:50AMSanta Barbara, CA
$921One-way
1 transfer
Metrolink Trains
09:06AM3h08
El Monte, CA
12:14PMSanta Barbara, CA
$921One-way
1 transfer
Metrolink Trains
10:06AM3h43
El Monte, CA
01:49PMSanta Barbara, CA
$921One-way
1 transfer
Metrolink Trains
02:06PM3h40
El Monte, CA
05:46PMSanta Barbara, CA
$921One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 31m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €28, and a bus costs an average of €49.

Distance: 98 miles (158 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€28

Average price

Cheapest

€52

Average price

3h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

3h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Thursday, January 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 7:01 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak11:25 PM El Monte, CA
2h33
1:58 AM Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect
Friday, January 16
Metrolink Trains6:36 AM El Monte, CA
3h19
9:55 AM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
Metrolink Trains8:06 AM El Monte, CA
3h44
11:50 AM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
Metrolink Trains9:06 AM El Monte, CA
3h08
12:14 PM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
Metrolink Trains10:06 AM El Monte, CA
3h43
1:49 PM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer
Metrolink Trains2:06 PM El Monte, CA
3h40
5:46 PM Santa Barbara, CA1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets El Monte, 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.

Fri
Jan 16
Sat
Jan 17
Sun
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21
Thu
Jan 22

Why should you book El Monte to Santa Barbara trains with Omio?

Amtrak as well as Metrolink Trains offer trains services from El Monte to Santa Barbara. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from El Monte to Santa Barbara.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Metrolink Trains to find the best option for your trip from El Monte to Santa Barbara.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from El Monte to Santa Barbara.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While Amtrak tickets can be bought on Amtrak's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Metrolink Trains to help you choose the right option for your journey from El Monte to Santa Barbara.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from El Monte to Santa Barbara.

Journey information

Overview: Train from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA start from as low as $34 (€28) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $34 (€28) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 13 daily trains from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with 10 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 2h 33m but the average duration is 2h 31m
Train Operators
  • Travel from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA with Amtrak and Metrolink Trains
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Amtrak.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA and arrive in Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
  • First train typically departs at 06:53 AM and the last at 07:26 PM
Distance
98 miles (158 km)
Average train duration
2h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
$34 (€28)
Trains per day
13
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
2h 33m
First train
06:53
Last train
19:26
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
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

Train companies: Amtrak, Metrolink Trains from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak, Metrolink Trains trains will get you between El Monte, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $34 (€28). 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
2h 33m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€27)
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
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€74)
Metrolink Trains frequency
5 a day

FAQs: Trains from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from El Monte, 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
Train ticket prices from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€28), while the average price is around $34 (€28).
The train from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 2h 33m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 98 miles (158 km).
The first train from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:53 AM.
The last train from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in El Monte, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by train, with a cost of around $34 (€28).
The train journey from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific coastline, lush landscapes, and picturesque towns along the route.
A day trip from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 33m one way. However, there are 13 trains per day 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 El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

El Monte
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

Most popular train connections from El Monte, CA

More options for your journey from El Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Santa Barbara, CAEl Monte, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone