- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
Cheapest price on Aug 29
€29
Average ticket price on Aug 29
€43
Fastest journey on Aug 29
2 h 47 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
2 h 54 m
Trains on Aug 29
6
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 €43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €29.
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 6 trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 5 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 47 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 3 h 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.
785 Pacific Surfliner
757 Pacific Surfliner
761 Pacific Surfliner
777 Pacific Surfliner
769 Pacific Surfliner
777 Pacific Surfliner
769 Pacific Surfliner
761 Pacific Surfliner
785 Pacific Surfliner
757 Pacific SurflinerOmio 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 an average ticket price of €22 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 2h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, while a train costs an average of €42.
Distance: 86 miles (140 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€42 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest | €17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 51m Average total duration 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 34m Average total duration Fastest 2h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is €20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average €42.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 21m.
Tickets start at around €42 compared to roughly €17 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-25.58. The journey takes 3h 21m versus 1h 44m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
785 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h59 | 10:12 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
785 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h43 | 9:56 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 29 | |||||
757 Pacific Surfliner | 5:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 3h00 | 8:13 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
761 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h56 | 10:09 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 8h45 | 6:36 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 1 transfer | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 11:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h49 | 2:02 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
777 Pacific Surfliner | 3:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h47 | 6:00 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 3h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €21 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (140 km) distance in 2h 13m.
Distance 86 miles (140 km) |
Average train duration 3h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price €21 |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 5:13 AM |
Last train 7:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 3 days |
Discover the best of Santa Barbara, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara, CA trip today.
Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
Fresh sea urchin roe landed from the Santa Barbara Channel. Briny, sweet, and prized because the region is one of California's best-known uni sources.
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
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.
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.
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.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara is $23 (21€).
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!
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.

Most Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Union Station to Santa Barbara Station station pair, with some services arriving at Goleta Station. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.
Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Chatsworth Station.
Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatsworth Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Santa Barbara, University of California is 13 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
Santa Barbara, University of California has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food court located nearby on campus.
Free Wi-Fi available for passengers. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, University of California.
Available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.
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