The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Cheapest price
$35
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
2 h 23 m
Average duration
2 h 37 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
140 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Of the 14 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Sat, Nov 29, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Nov 29 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 23 m .
On Sat, Nov 29 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.
765 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
779 Pacific Surfliner
785 Pacific Surfliner
779 Pacific Surfliner
14 Coast Starlight
769 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
761 Pacific Surfliner
779 Pacific SurflinerTravel Information
Compare train and bus for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 2h 28m. 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 €21.
Distance: 86 miles (140 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€28 Average price | €23 Average price Cheapest |
3h 9m Average total duration 2h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 58m Average total duration Fastest 2h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Friday, November 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
761 Pacific Surfliner | 3:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 5:55 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner | 5:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h37 | 7:50 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 5:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 3h01 | 8:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h03 | 2:54 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
14 Coast Starlight | 5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h23 | 8:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h36 | 9:49 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, November 29 | |||||
779 Pacific Surfliner | 12:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h45 | 2:58 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
785 Pacific Surfliner | 3:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h46 | 5:59 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 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.
Nov 29
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (140 km) distance in 2h 23m.
Distance 86 miles (140 km) |
Average train duration 2h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 2h 23m |
First train 06:00 |
Last train 19:59 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $20 (€16). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
The train connection between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA is a scenic journey that showcases the beautiful California coastline. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers travelers a comfortable and convenient way to explore these two cities. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can enjoy stunning ocean views while traveling approximately 95 miles in just under 2 hours. Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or simply exploring the region's attractions, taking the train provides an enjoyable experience with ease of access to both destinations.
Train Connection: Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
The train connection from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara takes approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes. There are 4 direct connections available each day. Passengers can board the trains at Union Station, Northridge Station, Van Nuys Metrolink Station, or Chatsworth Station in California and arrive at Santa Barbara Station.
Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
The first daily train journey departs from Los Angeles at 14:13 and the last departure is scheduled for 23:13. This convenient schedule allows travelers to enjoy a full day in either city while providing flexibility for evening travel options.
Train Tickets Price for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara is $23 (21€).
Exploring Santa Barbara: A Journey Through History and Beauty
Welcome to the Santa Barbara Mission, founded in 1786 as one of California's original 21 missions; it stands as a testament to Spanish colonial history and the spread of Christianity among Native Americans. This stunning structure is not only significant for its historical role but also for its beautiful architecture, featuring intricate tile work and lush gardens that invite reflection on the past. As you explore, take note of the serene atmosphere and panoramic views from atop the hill—an experience that truly captures Santa Barbara’s charm.
Next, we arrive at Stearns Wharf, which dates back to 1872 when it was built by businessman John Stearns as a shipping dock for goods like fish and lumber. Today, this iconic landmark serves as both a bustling hub for tourists seeking fresh seafood restaurants and unique shops while offering breathtaking ocean views perfect for capturing memorable photographs. Don’t miss out on strolling along this historic pier where you can feel the vibrant energy of local fishermen alongside families enjoying their day by the sea.
Finally, let’s visit Courthouse Sunken Gardens—a hidden gem nestled within one of America’s most beautiful courthouses completed in 1929 with stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture reflecting our city’s rich heritage. The sunken gardens are renowned not just for their meticulously landscaped grounds filled with colorful flowers but also because they provide an idyllic setting ideal for relaxation or picnicking amidst towering palm trees against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Be sure to wander through these enchanting gardens before heading up to enjoy sweeping vistas from atop the clock tower!
FAQs: Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- Located near the main entrance
- Free
- The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metrolink: Ventura County Line
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $1
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
- Cost $10
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- Outside the main entrance.
- $0.50
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Orange Line
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- The Lark
- Santo Mezcal
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- Hotel Californian
- Harbor View Inn
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
- The Habit Burger Grill
- Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- Free for passengers
- Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
- Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
- Located near the platform
- Free
- The station consists of a single platform with a waiting area and parking facilities nearby.
- Bus: Santa Barbara MTD Line 6, Line 11
Most popular train connections from Los Angeles, CA
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