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

Fri, Nov 07
+ Add return
Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 08

Cheapest price

$50

Average price

$50

Fastest journey

5 h 25 m

Average duration

5 h 30 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, 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 Monica, CA will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.

Fast trains

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

Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 5914 AMTRAK
04:10PM5h25
Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
09:35PMSanta Monica, CA
$501One-way
1 transfer
Amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 5914 AMTRAK
04:01PM5h34
Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
09:35PMSanta Monica, CA
$511One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €20, and a flight costs an average of €67.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

€40

Average price

€26

Average price

Cheapest

€201

Average price

5h 8m

Average total duration

4h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 26m

Average total duration

5h 26m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA trains for tomorrow, Saturday, November 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 3:42 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 5914 AMTRAK12:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
5h34
5:35 AM Santa Monica, CA1 transfer
amtrak785 Pacific Surfliner · 5914 AMTRAK12:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
5h25
5:35 AM Santa Monica, CA1 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 Santa Monica, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13
Fri
Nov 14

Journey information

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

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€39) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 12:01, the last at 16:10. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 5h 25m.

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 $24 (€20)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average train duration
4h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€39)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
5h 25m
First train
12:01
Last train
16:10
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 $24 (€20)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Santa Monica, CA from $24 (€20). 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
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€39)
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 Monica, CA

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

FAQs
In Santa Monica, CA, visitors can enjoy Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which offers family-friendly rides and games. Explore the Santa Monica Farmers Market for fresh produce, local goods, and live music. Discover marine life at the Heal the Bay Aquarium under the pier. For outdoor activities, bike along the scenic Marvin Braude Bike Trail or join a sunset yoga session on Santa Monica Beach. Key sights include the iconic Santa Monica Pier, bustling Third Street Promenade, relaxing Santa Monica State Beach, picturesque Palisades Park, and modern Tongva Park with unique landscaping and art.
A 2 to 3-day visit in Santa Monica, CA is typically sufficient to explore its vibrant beach, iconic pier, local dining, and nearby attractions.
A day trip from San Diego to Santa Monica is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 25m, covering 118 miles (191 km). Trains run 3 times per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is 118 miles (191 km).
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€39), while the average price is around $49 (€40).
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA offers scenic views of the Pacific coastline, charming beach towns, and picturesque landscapes, making it a visually pleasing experience for travelers.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€20).
The first train from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA leaves at 12:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
The train from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA takes 5h 25m and runs 3 per day.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA

San Diego
Santa Monica
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 Monica.
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
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Santa Monica, CASan Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA train

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