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

Tue, May 26
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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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 Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for May 27

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$33

Fastest journey

2 h 6 m

Average duration

2 h 6 m

Trains per day

4

Distance

132 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Santa Ana, CA for San Diego, CA on Wed, May 27, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, May 27 the direct trains cover the 132 km distance in an average of 2 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 6 m .

On Wed, May 27 the slowest trains will take 2 h 6 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
    12:01 AM2h06
    Santa Ana, CA
    2:07 AMSan Diego, CA
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    7:01 PM2h06
    Santa Ana, CA
    9:07 PMSan Diego, CA
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    11:01 PM2h06
    Santa Ana, CA
    1:07 AMSan Diego, CA
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    6:01 PM2h06
    Santa Ana, CA
    8:07 PMSan Diego, CA
    $331One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 54m. 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 $16, and a train costs an average of $30.

Distance: 82 miles (132 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$33

Average price

$25

Average price

Cheapest

$19

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 25m

Average total duration

1h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 28m

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 Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $25 (€20).

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

A bus is $8 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $33 (€26).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is by train with an average journey time of 1h 54m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 1h 55m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Ana, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, 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 $-13.63 (€-10.99). The journey takes 1h 54m versus 1h 28m 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

Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, 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
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner1:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner1:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
6:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
5:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner5:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner5:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
Amtrak12:01 AM Santa Ana, CA
2h06
2:07 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Monday, May 25
Amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner6:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
8:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner6:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
7:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner7:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner7:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak588 Pacific Surfliner8:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h51
9:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak588 Pacific Surfliner8:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
10:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner9:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner9:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h50
10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner11:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner11:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h49
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
Amtrak6:01 PM Santa Ana, CA
2h06
8:07 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak7:01 PM Santa Ana, CA
2h06
9:07 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, 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 Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA?

The best time to book your train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, 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 Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.

Journey information

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

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 1h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€25) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

There are 19 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 23:01. The fastest train covers the 82 miles (132 km) distance in 2h 3m.

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 $16 (€13)
Distance
82 miles (132 km)
Average train duration
1h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$30 (€25)
Trains per day
21
Direct trains
19
Fastest train
2h 3m
First train
3:50 AM
Last train
11:01 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $16 (€13)

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Ana, CA and San Diego, CA from $16 (€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
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
Amtrak frequency
21 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

Complete guide to San Diego

Things to do in San Diego

Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck views, and naval history exhibits. One of the city’s signature attractions.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Balboa Park’s major art museum, known for European old masters, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival building.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Contemporary art museum with strong regional and international programming, especially noted for its oceanfront La Jolla location and modern exhibitions.

United States Dollar

San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though tacos, casual eats, and happy hours can help keep daily costs lower.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual counter service.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 80+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 nightly for hotel housekeeping.

Traveling by train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

The train connection between Santa Ana, CA and San Diego, CA is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful Southern California coastline. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their journey to enjoy all that San Diego has to offer.

Train Connection: Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

Traveling from Santa Ana to San Diego takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. There are 8 direct connections available each day. Passengers will depart from Santa Ana Station and can arrive at either Old Town Station or Santa Fe Depot in San Diego.

Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

The first daily train journey departs from Santa Ana at 5:01 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to the vibrant city of San Diego. The last departure is scheduled for 9:01 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore and enjoy all that San Diego has to offer before returning in the evening.

Train Tickets Price for Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Santa Ana and San Diego is $25 (22.5€). The average ticket price tends to be around $29 (26.1€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Californian cities.

Exploring San Diego's Cultural Treasures

Welcome to Balboa Park, a stunning cultural oasis that dates back to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. This sprawling park is not only home to beautiful gardens and historic architecture but also houses world-class museums, making it a vital center for arts and culture in San Diego. One of its unique features is the iconic California Tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and serves as a symbol of San Diego's rich heritage.

Next on our journey is the USS Midway Museum, an aircraft carrier turned museum that played a pivotal role in U.S. naval history from World War II through Operation Desert Storm. As you explore this floating city at sea, you'll discover fascinating exhibits showcasing life aboard one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers while gaining insight into military aviation advancements over decades. Don't miss stepping onto the flight deck where you can see vintage planes up close—it's truly an unforgettable experience!

Finally, we arrive at Cabrillo National Monument, commemorating Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's landing on the West Coast in 1542—the first European explorer to do so! This site not only celebrates maritime exploration but also boasts stunning coastal views and diverse ecosystems within its protected areas. A highlight here is visiting Old Point Loma Lighthouse; standing atop cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean provides both historical context and awe-inspiring scenery that captures nature’s beauty perfectly.

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

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€25), while the average price is around $33 (€26).
The train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA takes 2h 3m and runs 21 per day.
The first train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is 82 miles (132 km).
The last train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 19 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Santa Ana, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal bluffs, and picturesque beach towns along the way.
A day trip from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 3m. However, there are 18 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 82 miles (132 km).
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Santa Ana, CA nor San Diego, 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 Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA, Newport Beach, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

Santa Ana
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Santa Ana is Santa Ana Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Ana Station for your trip from Santa Ana to San Diego.
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Dining
Dining
  • The Olde Ship British Pub & Restaurant
  • Chapter One: the modern local
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Santa Ana
  • Courtyard by Marriott Santa Ana
  • Holiday Inn Santa Ana-Orange County Airport
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
  • Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink services
Public transit options for Santa Ana Station
  • Bus: OCTA routes 53, 83, 206
  • Train: Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, Metrolink Orange County Line

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Ana, CA

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