Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train with Amtrak

Fri, Oct 30
+ Add return
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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 31

Cheapest price on Oct 31

$40

Average ticket price on Oct 31

$40

Fastest journey on Oct 31

3 h 52 m

Average journey duration on Oct 31

3 h 52 m

Trains on Oct 31

2

Distance

185 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

On Sat, Oct 31, we found 2 trains from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 2 direct services.

On Sat, Oct 31 the direct trains cover the 185 km distance in an average of 3 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 52 m .

On Sat, Oct 31 the slowest trains will take 3 h 52 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
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€34) but you can travel from only $26 (€22) by bus.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 114 miles (185 km) distance in 3h 10m.

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 $26 (€22)
Distance
114 miles (185 km)
Average train duration
3h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
$40 (€34)
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
3h 10m
First train
6:00 AM
Last train
7:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $26 (€22)

Frequently asked questions about your Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

Train ticket prices from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€34), while the average price is around $47 (€40).
The train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA takes 3h 10m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:00 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 114 miles (185 km).
The last train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 7:00 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

Live departures

Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak1:04 AM Santa Ana, CA
3h52
4:56 AM Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2:04 AM Santa Ana, CA
3h52
5:56 AM Santa Barbara, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Ana, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from $26 (€22). 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 Amtrak Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$40 (€34)
Amtrak frequency
11 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Ana, CA and Santa Barbara, CA

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from Santa Ana, CA to 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.

Complete guide to Santa Barbara, CA

Things to do in Santa Barbara, CA

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

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.

  • Recommended

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.

US Dollar ($)

Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.

Plan your visit to Santa Barbara, 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 Barbara, CA.

The train journey from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal landscapes, and picturesque areas along California’s coastline.
Popular day trips by train from Santa Barbara, CA include Ventura, CA, Camarillo, CA, Oxnard, CA, Simi Valley, CA, Moorpark, 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 Barbara, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like State Street and the waterfront. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use authorized transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these issues.
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 Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the Santa Ana Station to Santa Barbara Station station pair, with some services arriving at Goleta Station. Use this guide to compare Santa Ana, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Santa Ana
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara

Which Santa Ana, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?

Trains from Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from Santa Ana Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Ana, CA city centre at 1000 E. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701, USA.
Santa Ana Station1000 E. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701, USALockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Ana Station from Santa Ana city centre

Santa Ana Station is 1 km from Santa Ana city centre. Public transport options include:

BusOCTA routes 53, 83, 206
TrainAmtrak Pacific Surfliner, Metrolink Orange County Line

Santa Ana Station train station facilities and services

Santa Ana Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Olde Ship British Pub & Restaurant, Chapter One: the modern local

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Santa Ana Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Santa Ana Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Ana Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Santa Ana Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Ana Station: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Santa Ana, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Ana, Holiday Inn Santa Ana-Orange County Airport.

Train stations for Santa Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA

Check train stations information for Santa Ana, CA and Santa Barbara, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Santa Ana, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is Santa Ana Station, which connects to Santa Barbara Station.

Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Santa Ana, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Santa Barbara, CASanta Ana, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train

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