- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$35
Average price
$51
Fastest journey
2 h 17 m
Average duration
2 h 31 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
140 km
Cheap tickets
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 $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Fast trains
Of the 16 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Wed, Jul 15, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 17 m .
On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.
757 Pacific Surfliner5:13 AM3h00Union Station, Los Angeles, CA8:13 AMGoleta Station, Goleta, CA$351One-way0 transfers- 761 Pacific Surfliner7:13 AM2h42Union Station, Los Angeles, CA9:55 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 785 Pacific Surfliner7:13 PM2h43Union Station, Los Angeles, CA9:56 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 757 Pacific Surfliner5:13 AM2h43Union Station, Los Angeles, CA7:56 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 777 Pacific Surfliner3:13 PM2h47Union Station, Los Angeles, CA6:00 PMGoleta Station, Goleta, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 14 Coast Starlight9:51 AM2h17Union Station, Los Angeles, CA12:08 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$561One-way0 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner9:13 AM2h31Union Station, Los Angeles, CA11:44 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 777 Pacific Surfliner3:13 PM2h32Union Station, Los Angeles, CA5:45 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 769 Pacific Surfliner11:13 AM2h33Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1:46 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 761 Pacific Surfliner7:13 AM2h42Union Station, Los Angeles, CA9:55 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$351One-way0 transfers
Travel 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 27m. 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 $25.
Distance: 86 miles (140 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$34 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 11m Average total duration 2h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 57m Average total duration Fastest 2h 27m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $30 (€24).
This is compared to other travel options from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $4 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $34 (€28).
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 27m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 $34 (€28) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.29 (€-11.78). The journey takes 2h 41m 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.
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, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 757 Pacific Surfliner | 5:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 3h00 | 8:13 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 757 Pacific Surfliner | 5:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h43 | 7:56 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h56 | 10:09 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 9:55 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h55 | 12:08 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner | 9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h31 | 11:44 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner | 9:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h45 | 11:58 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 | |
| 14 Coast Starlight | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h17 | 12:08 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:51 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h06 | 6:57 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner | 11:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h33 | 1:46 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 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 | 2h32 | 5:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 777 Pacific Surfliner | 3:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h47 | 6:00 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 | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h59 | 10:12 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 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA?
The best time to book your train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA.
Trains
from $32Buses
from $21Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€21) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
There are 10 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 23m.
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 $16 (€13)
Distance 86 miles (140 km) |
Average train duration 2h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€21) |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 2h 23m |
First train 5:13 AM |
Last train 7:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 $16 (€13)
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 $16 (€13). 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 23m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€21)
Amtrak frequency
13 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 Santa Barbara
Things to do in Santa Barbara
Discover the best of Santa Barbara — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara trip today.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively main street lined with Spanish-style architecture, shops, theaters, and landmarks, making it the heart of downtown walking routes.
- Must visit
Cabrillo Boulevard
Classic beachside promenade ideal for walking and biking, with palm-lined ocean views, parks, and access to the harbor and wharf.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Harbor
Popular waterfront district with marina views, boat activity, museums, and easy walking access to coastal paths and sunset scenery.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Uni
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.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Spot prawns from local waters, often grilled or served simply to highlight their sweetness. Seasonal and celebrated for their freshness on the Central Coast.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Local spiny lobster, usually prepared grilled or roasted. A prized seasonal catch tied to the Santa Barbara Channel fishing tradition.
Barbareño
Refined downtown restaurant serving elegant Central Coast cuisine with strong local seafood and wine in a polished setting.
The Lark
Long-running fine dining restaurant focused on seasonal ingredients and local catch, with a classic upscale atmosphere.
Brophy Bros.
Historic waterfront oyster bar known for very fresh local seafood, chowder, and a lively harbor setting.
US Dollar ($)
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.
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.
Train ticket prices from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€21), while the average price is around $34 (€28).
The train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 2h 23m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:13 AM.
The distance by train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 86 miles (140 km).
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:59 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
Yes, the train journey from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque beaches, and rolling hills along the California coastline.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible since it takes 2h 23m. However, there are 12 train trips available per day. The distance is 86 miles (140 km).
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 Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Los Angeles, CA nor Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA include Ventura, CA, Camarillo, CA, Oxnard, CA, Simi Valley, CA, Moorpark, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like State Street and the waterfront. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use authorized transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
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.
Most popular train connections from Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
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Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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