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

Thu, Aug 06
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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 Maria, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$87

Average price

$87

Fastest journey

7 h 15 m

Average duration

7 h 23 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

392 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, 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 Maria, CA will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK
    4:10 PM7h25
    Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
    11:35 PMSanta Maria, CA
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK
    4:10 AM7h15
    Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
    11:25 AMSanta Maria, CA
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK
    4:01 PM7h34
    Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    11:35 PMSanta Maria, CA
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK
    8:10 AM7h20
    Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
    3:30 PMSanta Maria, CA
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK
    8:01 AM7h29
    Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    3:30 PMSanta Maria, CA
    $871One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

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

USAUSA
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Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $84 (€68) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 16:56. The fastest train covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 7h 24m.

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
243 miles (392 km)
Average train duration
7h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$84 (€68)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
7h 24m
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
4:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Best time to book
28 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 Santa Maria, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA from $84 (€68). 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
7h 24m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€68)
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 Maria, CA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $84 (€68), while the average price is around $86 (€70).
The train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA takes 7h 24m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA is 243 miles (392 km).
The last train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA leaves at 4:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA.
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA offers scenic views, including coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and picturesque fields, especially as it travels through parts of Southern California's beautiful coastline and agricultural areas.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA.
Popular day trips by train from Santa Maria, CA include Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Maria, CA, travelers should be cautious of vehicle break-ins, especially in parking areas near popular attractions. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi services and fake ticket sellers for local events. Staying aware of surroundings and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safe 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 Santa Maria, CA

Most San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA trains use the Santa Fe Depot to Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in San Diego
Arrival train stations in Santa Maria

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

Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA leave from Santa Fe Depot. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Diego, CA city centre at 1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

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:

Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min

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.

Old Town Station4009 Taylor Street, San Diego, CA 92110, United StatesWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

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:

TrainCoaster · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 9m · every ~18 min
Blue · 14m · every ~9 min

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.

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Santa Maria, CASan Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA train

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