Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$116

Average price

$116

Fastest journey

12 h 27 m

Average duration

12 h 27 m

Trains per day

2

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 $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $116.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Salinas, CA for San Diego, CA on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 603 km distance in an average of 12 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 27 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 12 h 27 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.

  • Amtrak
    2:40 PM12h27
    Salinas, CA
    3:07 AMSan Diego, CA
    $1161One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    1:40 PM12h27
    Salinas, CA
    2:07 AMSan Diego, CA
    $1171One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

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 but you can travel from only $107 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
Distance
374 miles (603 km)
Average train duration
12h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
$112
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

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 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak1:40 PM Salinas, CA
12h27
2:07 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2:40 PM Salinas, CA
12h27
3:07 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Salinas, CA and San Diego, CA from $107. 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
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, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $112, while the average price is around $125.
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
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

Most Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Salinas Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Salinas, CA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Salinas
Arrival train stations in San Diego

Which Salinas, CA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?

Trains from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA leave from Salinas Station. The station is from Salinas, CA city centre at 11 Station Place, Salinas, CA 93901, USA.
Salinas Station11 Station Place, Salinas, CA 93901, USA+1 800-872-7245ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Salinas Station from Salinas city centre

BusMonterey-Salinas Transit (MST) services available

Salinas Station train station facilities and services

Salinas Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Salinas Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Salinas Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salinas Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salinas Station: Ramps, restrooms.

More options for your journey from Salinas, CA to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CASalinas, CA to San Diego, CA train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone