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

Thu, Nov 27
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 27

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$32

Fastest journey

2 h 6 m

Average duration

2 h 6 m

Trains per day

1

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 $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Santa Ana, CA for San Diego, CA on Thu, Nov 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Nov 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 Thu, Nov 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
06:01PM2h06
Santa Ana, CA
08:07PMSan Diego, CA
$321One-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 €15. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 48m. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €26.

Distance: 82 miles (132 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€27

Average price

€22

Average price

Cheapest

2h 24m

Average total duration

1h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

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, Wednesday, November 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 1:54 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner3:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
5:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner3:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h49
4:50 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
6:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner4:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h49
5:50 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner5:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h52
6:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner5:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner7:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h52
8:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner7:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner8:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h06
10:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner8:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h52
9:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner9:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h49
10:50 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner9:01 PM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
11:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Thursday, November 27
amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner12:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
2:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner12:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h49
1:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak582 Pacific Surfliner1:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
2h03
3:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak582 Pacific Surfliner1:01 AM Santa Ana Station, Santa Ana, CA
1h49
2:50 AM Old Town Station, 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.

Thu
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03

Why should you book Santa Ana to San Diego trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Santa Ana to San Diego. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Ana to San Diego.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Santa Ana to San Diego.

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 18 times per day, taking around 1h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.

There are 16 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 6m.

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 $19 (€15)
Distance
82 miles (132 km)
Average train duration
1h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
18
Direct trains
16
Fastest train
2h 6m
First train
03:50
Last train
23:01
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 $19 (€15)

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 $19 (€15). 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 6m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Amtrak frequency
8 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

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
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
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.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.
A day trip from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 6m. However, there are 18 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 82 miles (132 km).
Train ticket prices from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $33 (€27).
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
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.
The distance by train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA is 82 miles (132 km).
The train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA takes 2h 6m and runs 18 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 16 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
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 first train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA.
The last train from Santa Ana, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:01 PM.

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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