4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$70
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$95
Fastest journey on Aug 29
8 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
8 h 13 m
Trains on Aug 29
18
Distance
431 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 18 trains from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 431 km distance in an average of 8 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 5 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 8 h 19 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.
765 Pacific Surfliner6:10 AM8h27Old Town Station, San Diego, CA2:37 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$701One-way0 transfers- 777 Pacific Surfliner12:01 PM8h51Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA8:52 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$701One-way0 transfers
- 777 Pacific Surfliner12:10 PM8h42Old Town Station, San Diego, CA8:52 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$701One-way0 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner6:01 AM8h36Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA2:37 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$701One-way0 transfers
- 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK6:01 AM8h54Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA2:55 PMSan Luis Obispo, CA$781One-way1 transfer
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK4:10 AM8h05Old Town Station, San Diego, CA12:15 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$881One-way1 transfer
- 769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK8:10 AM8h10Old Town Station, San Diego, CA4:20 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$881One-way1 transfer
- 761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK4:01 AM8h14Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA12:15 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$881One-way1 transfer
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK4:10 PM8h15Old Town Station, San Diego, CA12:25 AMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$881One-way1 transfer
- 769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK8:01 AM8h19Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA4:20 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA$881One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $69 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 16m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $69, while a flight costs an average of $228.
Distance: 267 miles (431 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$70 Average price | $228 Average price | $69 Average price Cheapest | $71 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 6m Average total duration 8h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 16m Average total duration Fastest 1h 16m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 48m Average total duration 8h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA:
A bus is $0.27 (€0.22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $70 (€56).
A bus is $159 (€128) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $228 (€184).
Other travel options to San Luis Obispo, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 18m.
Train takes on average 8h 36m.
Tickets start at around $70 (€56) compared to roughly $71 (€58) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $2 (€1). The journey takes 8h 36m versus 5h 15m 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 777 Pacific Surfliner | 12:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h51 | 8:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 777 Pacific Surfliner | 12:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h42 | 8:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h24 | 12:25 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h39 | 12:40 AM San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK | 4:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h15 | 12:25 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h29 | 12:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h14 | 12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK | 4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h05 | 12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h54 | 2:55 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h51 | 2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h51 | 2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner | 6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h36 | 2:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h42 | 2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h27 | 2:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h42 | 2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h19 | 4:20 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 8h34 | 4:35 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK | 8:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 8h10 | 4:20 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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.
Aug 29
Aug 30
Aug 31
Sep 01
Sep 02
Sep 03
Sep 04
Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 8h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $68 (€55) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 16:37. The fastest train covers the 267 miles (431 km) distance in 8h 42m.
Distance 267 miles (431 km) |
Average train duration 8h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $68 (€55) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 8h 42m |
First train 3:45 AM |
Last train 4:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA from $68 (€55). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Traveling between San Diego, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. This train connection offers travelers the chance to relax while enjoying picturesque views of California's coastline and countryside. With comfortable seating and onboard amenities, you can sit back and soak in the beauty of your surroundings as you make your way from one vibrant city to another. Whether you're heading for a weekend getaway or exploring new destinations, this route provides an enjoyable travel experience.
Train Connection: San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Traveling from San Diego to San Luis Obispo takes approximately 8 hours and 9 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available each day, departing from Santa Fe Depot and Old Town Station in San Diego and arriving at the San Luis Obispo Station.
San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
The first daily train journey departs from San Diego at 1:01 PM, providing travelers with an afternoon start for their adventure. The last departure of the day leaves San Luis Obispo at 8:10 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day before heading back.
Train Ticket Prices from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between San Diego and San Luis Obispo is $60 (54€). The average ticket price tends to be around $69 (62.1€), providing travelers with a range of options when planning their journey.
Exploring the Rich Heritage and Quirky Attractions of San Luis Obispo
Welcome to San Luis Obispo Mission, founded in 1772 as the fifth of California's historic missions, it played a crucial role in spreading Christianity and agriculture among Native Americans. This beautifully preserved structure not only showcases stunning Spanish colonial architecture but also serves as a reminder of the region’s rich cultural heritage. As you explore its serene gardens and intricate interiors, you'll feel connected to centuries of history that shaped this vibrant community.
Next on our journey is Hearst Castle, an opulent estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst between 1919 and 1947; it's often referred to as "La Cuesta Encantada" or "The Enchanted Hill." The castle boasts breathtaking Mediterranean Revival architecture with lavish rooms filled with art collected from around the world, making it a true testament to luxury and creativity. As we wander through its grand halls and picturesque terraces overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you'll understand why this magnificent property has become one of California's most iconic landmarks.
Finally, let’s take a stroll down Bubblegum Alley—a quirky yet beloved attraction nestled right here in downtown San Luis Obispo. Spanning over 15 feet high along both sides of an alleyway lined with chewed gum left by visitors since the early '70s, this colorful display reflects local culture while inviting playful interaction from tourists like yourself. Don't forget to snap some photos before adding your own piece—it's all part of what makes visiting SLO so uniquely memorable!
FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Most San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA trains use the Santa Fe Depot to San Luis Obispo Station station pair, with some services arriving at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which San Diego, CA station do trains to San Luis Obispo, CA leave from?
Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services
Santa Fe Depot has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.
Getting to Old Town Station from San Diego city centre
Old Town Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Old Town Station train station facilities and services
Old Town Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.
Which San Luis Obispo, CA station do trains from San Diego, CA arrive at?
Getting to San Luis Obispo Station from San Luis Obispo city centre
San Luis Obispo Station train station facilities and services
San Luis Obispo Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Novo Restaurant & Lounge, Firestone Grill
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at San Luis Obispo Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Luis Obispo Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at San Luis Obispo Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo Station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Apple Farm Inn, Hotel San Luis Obispo, Granada Hotel & Bistro.
Getting to San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office from San Luis Obispo city centre
San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office is 1 km from San Luis Obispo city centre. Public transport options include:
San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office train station facilities and services
San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available at the station. ATMs are available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office: Station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to San Luis Obispo, CA
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.
