- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Leading regional art museum with strong American, Asian, and European collections in a prominent downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$48
Average price
$57
Fastest journey
4 h 48 m
Average duration
4 h 53 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
254 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oceanside, 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast trains
Of the 15 trains that leave Oceanside, CA for Santa Barbara, CA on Sun, Jun 07, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 254 km distance in an average of 4 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 48 m .
On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 4 h 59 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.
777 Pacific Surfliner12:57 PM4h48Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA5:45 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers- 761 Pacific Surfliner4:57 AM4h58Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA9:55 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 769 Pacific Surfliner8:57 AM4h49Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA1:46 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 785 Pacific Surfliner4:57 PM4h59Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA9:56 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner6:57 AM4h50Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA11:47 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 777 Pacific Surfliner12:57 PM4h48Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA5:45 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 769 Pacific Surfliner8:57 AM4h49Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA1:46 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner6:57 AM4h50Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA11:47 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 761 Pacific Surfliner4:57 AM4h58Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA9:55 AMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
- 785 Pacific Surfliner4:57 PM4h59Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA9:56 PMSanta Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA$481One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 56m. 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 $43, and a flight costs an average of $113.
Distance: 157 miles (254 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$47 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $268 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 26m Average total duration Fastest 4h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 27m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 47m Average total duration 5h 47m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.5kg 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A bus is $4 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $47 (€38).
A bus is $225 (€183) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $268 (€218).
The fastest way to travel from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 56m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 57m.
Flight takes on average 5h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Oceanside, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Oceanside, 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 $47 (€38) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.81 (€-2.29). The journey takes 4h 56m versus 3h 6m 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
Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 761 Pacific Surfliner | 4:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 4h58 | 9:55 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner | 4:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h12 | 10:09 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK | 4:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h23 | 10:20 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner | 6:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 4h50 | 11:47 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h17 | 12:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner | 6:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h04 | 12:01 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h17 | 12:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK | 8:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h18 | 2:15 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner | 8:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 4h49 | 1:46 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner | 8:57 AM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h05 | 2:02 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 777 Pacific Surfliner | 12:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h03 | 6:00 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 777 Pacific Surfliner | 12:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 4h48 | 5:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner | 4:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 4h59 | 9:56 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK | 4:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h23 | 10:20 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner | 4:57 PM Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA | 5h15 | 10:12 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, 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.
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Jun 07
Jun 07
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 14 times per day, taking around 4h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $43 (€35) by bus.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:57, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (254 km) distance in 4h 48m.
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 $43 (€35)
Distance 157 miles (254 km) |
Average train duration 4h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 4h 48m |
First train 4:57 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $43 (€35)
Train companies: Amtrak from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Oceanside, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $43 (€35). 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
4h 48m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Amtrak frequency
5 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.
- Recommended
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Hands-on science and technology museum popular with families for interactive exhibits and rooftop activities.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum
Compact waterfront museum covering regional seafaring history, Channel maritime culture, and local ocean exploration.
- Must visit
Stearns Wharf
Classic waterfront promenade with ocean views, harbor access, and one of the city’s most recognizable settings.
- Must visit
State Street
Main downtown corridor for walking, shopping, people-watching, and easy access to major attractions.
- Must visit
Lotusland
Celebrated botanical garden estate in Montecito with extraordinary themed gardens; advance reservations are typical.
Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Central Coast barbecue tradition featuring oak-grilled beef tri-tip, often served with pinquito beans, salsa, and garlic bread. It is one of the region's most iconic local meals.
Tri-Tip Sandwich
A beloved local sandwich made with sliced Santa Maria-style tri-tip on bread, commonly found at casual grills and roadside spots across the area.
- Gluten-free
Spot Prawns
Seasonal local prawns from the Santa Barbara Channel, prized for their sweetness and delicate texture. They are a standout coastal seafood specialty when available.
Toma Restaurant & Bar Santa Barbara
Respected waterfront-adjacent restaurant specializing in Italian-inspired coastal cuisine, pasta, and polished service.
The Lark Santa Barbara
Well-known New American restaurant in the Funk Zone with stylish interiors, seasonal ingredients, and strong local wine offerings.
Loquita Santa Barbara
Established Spanish restaurant serving paella, tapas, and cocktails in an elegant but energetic downtown setting.
United States Dollar
Santa Barbara is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining. Budget options exist, but most visitors spend more than in many other California cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or tacos.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale spots.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff, and USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Tipping is expected for service.
FAQs: Trains from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oceanside, 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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€37), while the average price is around $47 (€38).
The train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 4h 48m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 157 miles (254 km).
The first train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 4:57 AM.
The last train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in Oceanside, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Oceanside Transportation Center, Oceanside, CA, which connects to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $43 (€35).
Yes, the train journey from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, as it travels along the Pacific coastline, offering views of beaches, cliffs, and ocean vistas, especially around areas like San Clemente and Ventura.
A day trip from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 4h 48m. However, trains are available 13 times per day for this 157 miles (254 km) journey.
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 Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Since neither Oceanside, 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 Oceanside, 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Oceanside
Santa Barbara
The major train station for departures in Oceanside is Oceanside Transportation Center. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Oceanside Transportation Center for your trip from Oceanside to Santa Barbara.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Day-use parking is available on the West side of the train tracks, 200-600 South Myers St., Lot 27
- Both locations are enforced by the City of Oceanside Parking.
Dining
- Harbor Fish & Chips
- 333 Pacific
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Oceanside/Downtown
- Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort
- Best Western Plus Oceanside Palms
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 26 places, covered
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for Amtrak, Metrolink, and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: bus connections
Public transit options for Oceanside Transportation Center
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metrolink
- Amtrak
- Coaster
The major train station for arrivals in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara Station for your journey to Santa Barbara from Oceanside.
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Dining
- The Lark
- Santo Mezcal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Hotel Californian
- Harbor View Inn
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
Santa Barbara, University of California
information
Goleta Station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
1Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Dining
- The Habit Burger Grill
- Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- Free for passengers
Hotel
- Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
- Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
Information Desk
- Located near the platform
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station consists of a single platform with a waiting area and parking facilities nearby.
Public transit options for Goleta Station
- Bus: Santa Barbara MTD Line 6, Line 11
Most popular train connections from Oceanside, CA
More options for your journey from Oceanside, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Oceanside, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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