San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, May 28
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Showing times and prices for May 28

Cheapest price

$69

Average price

$94

Fastest journey

8 h 5 m

Average duration

8 h 13 m

Trains per day

18

Distance

431 km

Cheap tickets

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 $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.

Fast trains

Of the 18 trains that leave San Diego, CA for San Luis Obispo, CA on Thu, May 28, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 28 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 Thu, May 28 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.

  • Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner
    6:10 AM8h27
    Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
    2:37 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner
    6:01 AM8h36
    Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    2:37 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner
    12:01 PM8h51
    Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    8:52 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner
    12:10 PM8h42
    Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
    8:52 PMSan Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK
    6:01 AM8h54
    Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    2:55 PMSan Luis Obispo, CA
    $771One-way
    1 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 train with prices starting from $67. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $67, and a flight costs an average of $129.

Distance: 267 miles (431 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$330

Average price

$69

Average price

$70

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 6m

Average total duration

8h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 16m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 49m

Average total duration

8h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Alaska Airlines

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is a train with an average price of $69 (€56).

This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA:

A train is $0.09 (€0.07) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $69 (€56).

A train is $261 (€210) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA costing on average $330 (€266).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 16m.

Other travel options to San Luis Obispo, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 19m.

Train takes on average 8h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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 tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h29
12:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h14
12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
8h05
12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 4765 AMTRAK6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h54
2:55 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h36
2:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h51
2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h51
2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
8h42
2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
8h27
2:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
8h42
2:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h34
4:35 PM San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h19
4:20 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK8:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
8h10
4:20 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA1 transfer
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner12:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
8h51
8:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner12:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
8h42
8:52 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA0 transfersDirect

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.

Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
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Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

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Trains from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA run on average 16 times per day, taking around 8h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€54) 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 51m.

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
Distance
267 miles (431 km)
Average train duration
8h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$67 (€54)
Trains per day
16
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
8h 51m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
4:37 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
84 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

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 $67 (€54). 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
8h 51m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€54)
Amtrak frequency
16 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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€54), while the average price is around $69 (€56).
The train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA takes 8h 51m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 3:45 AM.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is 267 miles (431 km).
The last train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA leaves at 4:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to San Luis Obispo, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is by train, with a cost of around $67 (€54).
Yes, the train journey from San Diego to San Luis Obispo is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal bluffs, and charming California landscapes along the way.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 8h 51m and the distance is 267 miles (431 km). There are 15 trains per day on this route.
In San Luis Obispo, CA, you can stroll through Downtown SLO, enjoy a performance at the historic Fremont Theater, or visit the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum. Explore the local wineries in the Edna Valley wine region or discover the natural beauty of Montana de Oro State Park. Best sights include Bubblegum Alley, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, and Bishop Peak. You can also visit the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art or relax at Avila Beach.
To fully enjoy San Luis Obispo, CA, plan for a 2-3 day stay, which allows time to explore local attractions such as downtown shops, hiking trails, nearby beaches, and the famous Hearst Castle.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA include Lompoc, CA, Paso Robles, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and occasional fake charity solicitations. It is advisable to avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles and to use reputable transportation services. Overall, the city is considered relatively safe, but staying alert to personal belongings and using common sense helps ensure a secure visit.
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 San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

San Diego
San Luis Obispo
The major train station for departures 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 trip from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
Dining
  • The Fish Market
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1.25
Hotel
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
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
Dining
  • Casa Guadalajara
  • Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • $0.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • Old Town Inn
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
  • Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
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 trains to and from San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Luis Obispo, CASan Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA train

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