- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
Orange County’s leading contemporary art museum, presenting rotating exhibitions and acclaimed modern artists near UC Irvine.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 22
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$51
Fastest journey
4 h 7 m
Average duration
4 h 16 m
Trains per day
18
Distance
192 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast trains
Of the 18 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for Irvine, CA on Wed, Jul 22, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 22 the direct trains cover the 192 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 7 m .
On Wed, Jul 22 the slowest trains will take 4 h 24 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.
790 Pacific Surfliner4:40 PM4h31Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:39 AM4h32Goleta Station, Goleta, CA11:11 AMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 790 Pacific Surfliner4:25 PM4h46Goleta Station, Goleta, CA9:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM4h18Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:11 AMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM4h07Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM4h07Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM4h11Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM4h18Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:11 AMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM4h22Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA1:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner2:47 PM4h24Goleta Station, Goleta, CA7:11 PMIrvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA$441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 48m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $38, and a bus costs an average of $43.
Distance: 119 miles (192 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$43 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price | $28 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 59m Average total duration 4h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is a train with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA:
A train is $25 (€21) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average $68 (€56).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
Other travel options to Irvine, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 $43 (€35) compared to roughly $28 (€23) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.44 (€-12.70). The journey takes 4h 29m versus 2h 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 Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trains for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:19 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 4h22 | 10:41 PM Irvine, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 6:50 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 10h25 | 5:15 AM Irvine, CA | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, July 22 | |||||
| 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 5h11 | 11:11 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:39 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 4h32 | 11:11 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 4h18 | 11:11 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 4h40 | 1:11 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 4h22 | 1:11 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
Fri
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Jul 24
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Jul 28
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:49, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 4h 18m.
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 119 miles (192 km) |
Average train duration 4h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 5:49 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA from $38 (€31). 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
4h 18m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Amtrak frequency
15 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 Irvine
Things to do in Irvine
Discover the best of Irvine — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine trip today.
- Recommended
University Art Gallery at UC Irvine
University art museum featuring exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, with thought-provoking programs and free admission.
- Recommended
Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Historic farm site with interpretive exhibits, original structures, and programs that bring Orange County’s agricultural past to life.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Major civic park with trails, sports areas, art spaces, and the iconic balloon, popular with both visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Irvine Spectrum Center
Lakeside shopping and entertainment district with landscaped plazas and a lively pedestrian setting day and night.
- Recommended
Aldrich Park
Circular park at the heart of UC Irvine with mature trees and paths, ideal for walking, picnics, and campus atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a Southern California staple: battered or grilled fish in corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and salsa. They reflect the region’s Baja and coastal influence.
California Roll
California rolls were popularized in Southern California sushi culture. Crab, avocado, and cucumber make them approachable and iconic to the region’s Japanese influence.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a modern California café classic. Fresh avocado on artisan bread showcases the state’s produce culture and everyday brunch habits.
Habuya Okinawan Dining
Established Japanese restaurant in Diamond Jamboree known for quality sushi, izakaya dishes, and a polished yet comfortable setting.
North Italia
Well-known upscale-casual venue serving seasonal Californian cuisine. Stylish room and dependable service make it a strong fine dining option.
85C Bakery Cafe
Highly regarded Taiwanese bakery café famous for sea salt coffee, breads, and desserts. Casual, busy, and representative of Irvine’s café culture.
US Dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is limited, so visitors often need taxis or rental cars, raising daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA takes 4h 18m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is 119 miles (192 km).
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 5:49 AM.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 7:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Irvine, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is by train, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA offers a scenic experience, featuring picturesque views of the Pacific coastline, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns along the route.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA is not feasible given the travel duration of 4h 18m. However, there are 14 train trips available per day. The journey covers a distance of 119 miles (192 km).
In Irvine, CA, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Visit Tanaka Farms for family-friendly tours and fresh produce picking, or catch a performance at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. Explore the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary for bird watching and nature enjoyment. Thrill-seekers can race at K1 Speed's indoor go-kart track, while those looking for relaxation can picnic or paddle boat at William R. Mason Regional Park. For sightseeing, the Orange County Great Park offers sports facilities and a panoramic helium balloon ride, while the Irvine Spectrum Center provides shopping, dining, and entertainment. Hiking and scenic views await at Bommer Canyon, and families can explore Pretend City Children's Museum for interactive play. Art enthusiasts can visit the Irvine Museum to appreciate California Impressionist art.
To fully explore Irvine, CA, including its parks, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA include San Diego, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Solana Beach, CA, Oceanside, CA, Carlsbad, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Irvine Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Irvine, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santa Barbara
Arrival train stations in Irvine
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Irvine, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA leave from Santa Barbara Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at 209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara, University of California
Goleta Station25 South La Patera Lane, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Goleta Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 14m · $4
Bus12X, 6 · 53m · $2 · every ~5 min
Goleta Station train station facilities and services
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Which Irvine, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA most often arrive at Irvine Station. Some services arrive at Santa Ana Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Irvine, CA arrival station.
Irvine Station15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Irvine Station from Irvine city centre
Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOC Line, IE-OC Line · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 24m · $2 · every ~1 min
86 · 25m · $2 · every ~1 min
86 · 28m · $2 · every ~1 min
Irvine Station train station facilities and services
Irvine 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: Del Frisco's Grille, The Cheesecake Factory
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Irvine Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Irvine Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Irvine Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Irvine Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum, DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Irvine, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Irvine, CA
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