- Recommended
Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum
Local history museum with exhibits on railroads, farming, ranching, and everyday life in the Santa Maria Valley.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA and enjoy the approximately 243 miles (392 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 16:56.
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) |
First train 4:01 AM |
Last train 4:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Frequently asked questions about your San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA is 243 miles (392 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA leaves at 4:56 PM.
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:01 AM San Diego, CA | 7h24 | 6:25 PM Santa Maria, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:01 PM San Diego, CA | 7h24 | 7:25 PM Santa Maria, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to Santa Maria, CA
Things to do in Santa Maria, CA
Discover the best of Santa Maria, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Maria, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Santa Maria Museum of Flight
Hands-on aviation museum featuring restored aircraft and exhibits connected to the region's military and civilian flying history.
Estrella Warbirds Museum Annex at Santa Maria Airport
Museum and events venue at Santa Maria Airport with classic warbirds and aircraft displays for aviation enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Waller Park
Large city park with a lake, walking paths, gardens, and open space; one of Santa Maria's best everyday outdoor stops.
- Recommended
Los Flores Ranch Park
Scenic preserve with trails through oak woodland and ranch landscapes; a favorite for hiking, wildlife, and wide valley views.
Preisker Park
Popular community park with lawns, playgrounds, events, and the historic chapel nearby; good for an easy local walk.
- Gluten-free
Santa Maria-Style Tri-Tip
Santa Maria-style barbecue centers on tri-tip seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic, grilled over red oak. It is the city’s signature meal and a Central Coast tradition.
- Gluten-free
Pinquito Beans
Pinquito beans are small pink beans grown in the Santa Maria Valley, traditionally simmered with bacon, tomatoes and spices as a classic barbecue side.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Santa Maria Fresh Salsa
Fresh salsa usually made with tomatoes, onion, cilantro and chile. It is a standard accompaniment to Santa Maria barbecue and local Mexican-influenced meals.
Far Western Tavern
Classic steakhouse and bar serving Santa Maria-style beef, seafood and hearty grills in an old-school local atmosphere.
The Hitching Post
Historic casual spot known for Santa Maria-style barbecue, especially tri-tip plates and classic sides in a relaxed ranch-style setting.
Shaw's Steakhouse
Long-running local favorite for oak-grilled tri-tip sandwiches and plates, offering a straightforward traditional Santa Maria barbecue experience.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for California. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major coastal cities, but car travel and limited transit can add costs for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, about $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip 10% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or checkout prompts.
Plan your visit to Santa Maria, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in 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.
Popular day trips by train from Santa Maria, CA include Santa Barbara, CA.
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.
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.
No, you cannot take the train from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA.
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+1 800-872-7245
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 States
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 · $8 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · $2
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.
Which Santa Maria, CA station do trains from San Diego, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA arrive at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant). Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) is 1 miles (2 km) from Santa Maria, CA city centre.
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant)202 Nicholson Ave, Santa Maria, CA 93454, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) from Santa Maria city centre
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) is 1 km from Santa Maria city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) train station facilities and services
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: IHOP Restaurant on-site.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant). ATMs are available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant): Wheelchair accessible paths available.
Train stations for San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA
Check train stations information for San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Santa Maria, CA is Santa Fe Depot, which connects to Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant).
Most popular train connections from San Diego, CA
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Santa Maria, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Maria, CA
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