San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA train with Amtrak

Tue, May 26
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA

Showing times and prices for May 26

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$32

Fastest journey

2 h 1 m

Average duration

2 h 1 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

132 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana, CA will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Ana, CA on Tue, May 26, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 26 the direct trains cover the 132 km distance in an average of 2 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 1 m .

On Tue, May 26 the slowest trains will take 2 h 1 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
    8:01 PM2h01
    San Diego, CA
    10:02 PMSanta Ana, CA
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    3:01 AM2h01
    San Diego, CA
    5:02 AMSanta Ana, CA
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    5:01 PM2h01
    San Diego, CA
    7:02 PMSanta Ana, CA
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    7:01 PM2h01
    San Diego, CA
    9:02 PMSanta Ana, CA
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    2:01 AM2h01
    San Diego, CA
    4:02 AMSanta Ana, CA
    $331One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 55m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $32.

Distance: 82 miles (132 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$33

Average price

$27

Average price

Cheapest

$19

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 47m

Average total duration

2h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 35m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).

This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA:

A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA costing on average $33 (€26).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA is by train with an average journey time of 1h 55m.

Other travel options to Santa Ana, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Santa Ana, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, 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 $33 (€26) compared to roughly $19 (€15) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.62 (€-10.99). The journey takes 1h 55m versus 1h 35m 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

San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA trains for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
1h58
5:59 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h49
5:59 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner6:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
8:02 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak765 Pacific Surfliner6:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
8:02 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak567 Pacific Surfliner7:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
9:02 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak567 Pacific Surfliner7:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
9:02 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
10:02 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner8:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
10:02 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak573 Pacific Surfliner10:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
12:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak573 Pacific Surfliner10:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
12:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner12:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
2:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak777 Pacific Surfliner12:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
2:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak579 Pacific Surfliner1:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
3:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak579 Pacific Surfliner1:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
3:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner2:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
4:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak581 Pacific Surfliner2:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
4:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak587 Pacific Surfliner5:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h03
7:04 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak587 Pacific Surfliner5:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h54
7:04 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak591 Pacific Surfliner7:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
9:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
Amtrak2:01 AM San Diego, CA
2h01
4:02 AM Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak591 Pacific Surfliner7:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
9:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak593 Pacific Surfliner8:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
2h01
10:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
Amtrak3:01 AM San Diego, CA
2h01
5:02 AM Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Monday, May 25
Amtrak593 Pacific Surfliner8:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h52
10:02 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak595 Pacific Surfliner9:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
1h58
10:59 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak595 Pacific Surfliner9:10 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
1h49
10:59 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA0 transfersDirect

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 Santa Ana, CA by train or bus

Compare train 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.

Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01

How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA?

The best time to book your train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 1h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $17 (€13) by bus.

There are 20 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 82 miles (132 km) distance in 1h 58m.

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 $17 (€13)
Distance
82 miles (132 km)
Average train duration
1h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
21
Direct trains
20
Fastest train
1h 58m
First train
3:50 AM
Last train
11:12 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
1 day
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 $17 (€13)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Santa Ana, CA from $17 (€13). 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
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Amtrak frequency
9 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

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, 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 Ana, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $33 (€26).
The train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA takes 1h 58m and runs 21 per day.
The first train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA is 82 miles (132 km).
The last train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA. This service operates 20 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Santa Ana, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€13).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA offers scenic views of the Southern California coastline, featuring ocean vistas, beaches, and picturesque towns along the way.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 58m and the distance is 82 miles (132 km). There are 18 trains per day.
Typically, spending 1 to 2 days in Santa Ana, CA is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Bowers Museum, the Santa Ana Zoo, and the Artists Village.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Santa Ana, 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 Ana, CA include Los Angeles, CA, Oceanside, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA, Solana Beach, CA, Burbank, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Ana, 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 Ana, CA, travelers should be alert to petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or ride-share drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying in well-populated areas, using official transportation services, and safeguarding personal belongings help minimize risks.
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 Santa Ana, CA

San Diego
Santa Ana
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 Santa Ana.
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 Santa Ana, CA and San Diego, CA

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