Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train with Amtrak

Wed, Aug 26
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Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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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 Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 26

Cheapest price

$61

Average price

$72

Fastest journey

5 h 1 m

Average duration

5 h 8 m

Trains per day

11

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.

Fast trains

Of the 11 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for San Luis Obispo, CA on Wed, Aug 26, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 26 the direct trains cover the 260 km distance in an average of 5 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 1 m .

On Wed, Aug 26 the slowest trains will take 5 h 17 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 Pacific Surfliner
    3:13 PM5h39
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    8:52 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner
    9:13 AM5h24
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    2:37 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak757 Pacific Surfliner
    5:13 AM5h40
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    10:53 AMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $611One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK
    9:13 AM5h42
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    2:55 PMSan Luis Obispo, CA
    $691One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK
    7:13 PM5h12
    Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
    12:25 AMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $721One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $32, and a flight costs an average of $253.

Distance: 161 miles (260 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$61

Average price

$50

Average price

Cheapest

$341

Average price

$39

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 55m

Average total duration

5h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 35m

Average total duration

6h 35m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

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 Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is a bus with an average price of $50 (€40).

This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA:

A bus is $11 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $61 (€49).

A bus is $291 (€234) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $341 (€275).

The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 45m.

Other travel options to San Luis Obispo, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 25m.

Flight takes on average 6h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 $61 (€49) compared to roughly $39 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.11 (€-17.82). The journey takes 5h 25m versus 3h 14m 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

Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak757 Pacific Surfliner5:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h40
10:53 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK7:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h02
12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK7:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h17
12:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h42
2:55 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h39
2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h24
2:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h01
2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK11:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h07
4:20 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner3:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h39
8:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h12
12:25 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
5h27
12:40 AM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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.

Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA?

The best time to book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€38) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 5h 1m.

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 $32 (€26)
Distance
161 miles (260 km)
Average train duration
5h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
$48 (€38)
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
5h 1m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
7:59 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $32 (€26)

Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA from $32 (€26). 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
5h 1m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€38)
Amtrak frequency
12 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€38), while the average price is around $61 (€49).
The train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA takes 5h 1m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 3:45 AM.
The distance by train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is 161 miles (260 km).
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 7:59 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
The train station in Los Angeles, CA that goes to San Luis Obispo, CA is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, which connects to San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $32 (€26).
Yes, the train journey from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and picturesque California landscapes.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 1m one way, with a distance of 161 miles (260 km). However, trains run 12 times per day.
In San Luis Obispo, CA, you can stroll through Downtown SLO, enjoy a performance at the historic Fremont Theater, or visit the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. Explore the local wineries in the Edna Valley wine region or discover the natural beauty of Montana de Oro State Park. Best sights include Bubblegum Alley, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, and Bishop Peak. You can also visit the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art or relax at Avila Beach.
To fully enjoy San Luis Obispo, CA, plan for a 2-3 day stay, which allows time to explore local attractions such as downtown shops, hiking trails, nearby beaches, and the famous Hearst Castle.
Yes, you can take the train from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Since neither Los Angeles, CA nor San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA include Lompoc, CA, Paso Robles, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Most Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trains use the Union Station to San Luis Obispo Station station pair, with some services arriving at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles
Arrival train stations in San Luis Obispo

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

Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from Union Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Los Angeles, CA city centre at 800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre

TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · $1045
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · $1117
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · $563

Union Station train station facilities and services

Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.

Chatsworth Station10046 Old Depot Plaza Road, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA+1 800-371-5465ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Chatsworth Station from Los Angeles city centre

Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPacific Surfliner · 45m · $10
VC Line · 48m · $10
Bus419 · 1h 16m · $5
419 · 1h 27m · $5
Metro G Line · 1h 36m · $5 · every ~11 min

Chatsworth Station train station facilities and services

Chatsworth Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chatsworth Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

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

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station7720 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405, USALockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Van Nuys, Metrolink Station from Los Angeles city centre

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPacific Surfliner · 30m · $7
VC Line · 31m · $9
Bus20 · 2h 30m · $5 · every ~8 min

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station train station facilities and services

Van Nuys, Metrolink Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.

Most popular trains to and from San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Luis Obispo, CALos Angeles, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train

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