- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$117
Average price
$136
Fastest journey
12 h 22 m
Average duration
12 h 37 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
603 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $136 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $117.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner6:40 AM12h27Salinas Station, Salinas, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1171One-way1 transfer- 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner12:45 AM12h22Salinas Station, Salinas, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1171One-way1 transfer
- 4790 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner10:15 AM12h52Salinas Station, Salinas, CA11:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1171One-way1 transfer
- 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner12:40 PM12h24Salinas Station, Salinas, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1261One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 5818 AMTRAK12:06 PM17h29Salinas Station, Salinas, CA5:35 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1601One-way1 transfer
- 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner12:45 AM12h22Salinas Station, Salinas, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1171One-way1 transfer
- 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner12:40 PM12h24Salinas Station, Salinas, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1261One-way1 transfer
- 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner6:40 AM12h27Salinas Station, Salinas, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1171One-way1 transfer
- 4790 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner10:15 AM12h52Salinas Station, Salinas, CA11:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1171One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner12:06 PM12h58Salinas Station, Salinas, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1801One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $112. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $112, and a flight costs an average of $107.
Distance: 374 miles (603 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$124 Average price Cheapest | $282 Average price | $168 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 34m Average total duration 12h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 10m Average total duration 10h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $124 (€102).
This is compared to other travel options from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $44 (€36) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $168 (€138).
A train is $157 (€129) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $282 (€230).
The fastest way to travel from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 24m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 40m.
Train takes on average 12h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Salinas, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salinas, CA to San Diego, 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 $124 (€102) compared to roughly $87 (€71) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-37.78 (€-30.91). The journey takes 12h 4m versus 6h 31m 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
Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 6:40 AM Salinas Station, Salinas, CA | 12h27 | 7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4790 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner | 10:15 AM Salinas Station, Salinas, CA | 12h52 | 11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:06 PM Salinas Station, Salinas, CA | 12h58 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 5818 AMTRAK | 12:06 PM Salinas Station, Salinas, CA | 17h29 | 5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:40 PM Salinas Station, Salinas, CA | 12h24 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 12:45 AM Salinas Station, Salinas, CA | 12h22 | 1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 12h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $112 (€91) but you can travel from only $107 (€87) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:45, the last at 16:10. The fastest train covers the 374 miles (603 km) distance in 12h 22m.
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
Flight from $107 (€87)
Distance 374 miles (603 km) |
Average train duration 12h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $112 (€91) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 12h 22m |
First train 12:45 AM |
Last train 4:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 91 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
Flight from $107 (€87)
Train companies: Amtrak from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Salinas, CA and San Diego, CA from $107 (€87). 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
12h 22m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€91)
Amtrak frequency
1 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 San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Vast cultural park with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, walking paths, and some of San Diego's best photo spots.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Scenic cove known for sea lions, clear water, coastal cliffs, and highly shareable sunset and ocean-view walks.
- Must visit
Coronado Beach
Wide sandy beach beside the Hotel del Coronado, popular for walking, photography, and classic Southern California scenery.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled local fish in tortillas, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature coastal San Diego staple with strong Baja influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego original burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and casual foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shop culture.
Mitch's Seafood
Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh local catch, fish tacos, and sandwiches in a relaxed harbor setting near the fishing fleet.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Historic, no-frills Mexican restaurant famous for house-made tortillas, rolled tacos, and comforting traditional plates. A beloved local institution with a classic atmosphere.
Hodad's
Iconic casual spot in Ocean Beach known for oversized burgers, fries, and a lively beach-town vibe. A long-standing San Diego favorite.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Trains from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salinas, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $112 (€91), while the average price is around $124 (€102).
The train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA takes 12h 22m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:45 AM.
The distance by train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA is 374 miles (603 km).
The last train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Salinas, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Salinas Station, Salinas, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $107 (€87).
The train journey from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the California coastline, providing passengers with picturesque sights of the Pacific Ocean and coastal landscapes.
A day trip from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 22m. The distance is 374 miles (603 km). There are 5 trains per day.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Salinas, CA nor San Diego, 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 Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salinas, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA
Salinas
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Salinas is Salinas Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Salinas Station for your trip from Salinas to San Diego.
Salinas Station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
1Parking
- Parking is available at the station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station is an intermodal transit center with facilities for buses and trains.
Public transit options for Salinas Station
- Bus: Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) services available
The major train station for arrivals in San Diego is Santa Fe Depot. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Fe Depot for your journey to San Diego from Salinas.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
Bike Parking
Car RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options
Dining
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps
WC
- $1.25
Hotel
- The Westin San Diego
- The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Santa Fe Depot
- San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
5 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors
Dining
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- $0.25
Hotel
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Old Town Station
- Trolley: Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928
Most popular train connections from Salinas, CA
More options for your journey from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Salinas, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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