Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Oct 02
+ Add return
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 Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 02

Cheapest price on Oct 02

$55

Average ticket price on Oct 02

$79

Fastest journey on Oct 02

6 h 26 m

Average journey duration on Oct 02

6 h 34 m

Trains on Oct 02

11

Distance

316 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA will cost around $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.

Fast trains

On Fri, Oct 02, we found 11 trains from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA, including 2 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 02 the direct trains cover the 316 km distance in an average of 6 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 26 m .

On Fri, Oct 02 the slowest trains will take 6 h 43 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.

  • Amtrak777
    1:52 PM7h00
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    8:52 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $551One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak765
    7:52 AM6h45
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    2:37 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $551One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak765 · 4765
    7:52 AM7h03
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    2:55 PMSan Luis Obispo, CA
    $621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak785 · 4785
    5:52 PM6h48
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    12:40 AMSan Luis Obispo, CA
    $821One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak769 · 4769
    9:52 AM6h43
    Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA
    4:35 PMSan Luis Obispo, CA
    $821One-way
    1 transfer

Live departures

Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trains for today, Thursday, October 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak8:52 PM Irvine, CA
7h00
3:52 AM San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Journey information

Overview: Train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

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Trains from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€43) if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 17:52. The fastest train covers the 196 miles (316 km) distance in 6h 6m.

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
196 miles (316 km)
Average train duration
6h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$52 (€43)
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
6h 6m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
5:52 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
14 days
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 from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Irvine, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA from $52 (€43). 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 Amtrak Duration
6h 6m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$52 (€43)
Amtrak frequency
4 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 Luis Obispo, CA

Things to do in San Luis Obispo, CA

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

  • Recommended

History Center of San Luis Obispo County

Regional history museum in a restored Carnegie Library with exhibits on Indigenous communities, ranching, rail, and town life.

  • Recommended

San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum

Rail museum by the station with model layouts, restored equipment, and hands-on displays for families and train enthusiasts.

  • Recommended

San Luis Obispo Children's Museum

Children’s museum downtown with interactive science, art, and play exhibits designed for younger visitors and family outings.

United States dollar ($)

Moderate for California. Hotels and dining cost more than smaller inland towns, but transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screens.

FAQs: Trains from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€43), while the average price is around $82 (€68).
The train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA takes 6h 6m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 3:45 AM.
The distance by train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is 196 miles (316 km).
The last train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 5:52 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
The train station in Irvine, CA that goes to San Luis Obispo, CA is Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA, which connects to San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA.
Yes, the train journey from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is considered scenic as it offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Popular day trips by train from San Luis Obispo, CA include Lompoc, CA, Paso Robles, 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 Luis Obispo, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and occasional fake charity solicitations. It is advisable to avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles and to use reputable transportation services. Overall, the city is considered relatively safe, but staying alert to personal belongings and using common sense helps ensure a secure visit.
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 Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Most Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trains use the Irvine Station to San Luis Obispo Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Irvine, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Irvine
Arrival train stations in San Luis Obispo

Which Irvine, CA station do trains to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from?

Trains from Irvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from Irvine Station. The station is 4 miles (8 km) from Irvine, CA city centre at 15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA.
Irvine Station15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA+1 800-371-5465WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Irvine Station from Irvine city centre

Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainOC Line, IE-OC Line · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 24m · $2 · every ~1 min
86 · 25m · $2 · every ~1 min
86 · 28m · $2 · every ~1 min

Irvine Station train station facilities and services

Irvine Station 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: Del Frisco's Grille, The Cheesecake Factory

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Irvine Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Irvine Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Irvine Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Irvine Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine Station: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum, DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum.

Most popular trains to and from San Luis Obispo, CA and Irvine, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Luis Obispo, CAIrvine, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train

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