- Must visit
The Getty Center
Hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and striking architecture plus sweeping city views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$35
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$42
Fastest journey on Oct 13
2 h 46 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
2 h 50 m
Trains on Oct 13
14
Distance
140 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 14 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA, including 13 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 46 m .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 2 h 54 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.
782 Pacific Surfliner12:29 PM3h16Goleta Station, Goleta, CA3:45 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers- 786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM2h46Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA5:50 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 794 Pacific Surfliner6:38 PM3h08Goleta Station, Goleta, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM2h54Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:43 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM2h53Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:46 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM2h46Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA5:50 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM2h46Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight6:19 PM2h52Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:11 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM2h53Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:46 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM2h54Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:43 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$351One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 but you can travel from only $15 by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (140 km) distance in 2h 27m.
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 $15
Distance 86 miles (140 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 27m |
First train 5:13 AM |
Last train 7:59 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 28 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 $15
Live departures
Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h12 | 11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h12 | 11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h54 | 11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h54 | 11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 9h31 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 9h31 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:29 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h16 | 3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:29 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h16 | 3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 3h00 | 3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 3h00 | 3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 2:47 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h03 | 5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 2:47 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h03 | 5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h46 | 5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h46 | 5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:25 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h18 | 7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:25 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h18 | 7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 3h03 | 7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 3h03 | 7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11 Coast Starlight | 6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h52 | 9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11 Coast Starlight | 6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h52 | 9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 6:38 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h08 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 6:38 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h08 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h46 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h46 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:39 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 3h07 | 9:46 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 2h53 | 9:46 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA from $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 Amtrak Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$25
Amtrak frequency
14 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 Los Angeles, CA
Things to do in Los Angeles, CA
Discover the best of Los Angeles, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles, CA trip today.
- Must visit
The Broad
Major contemporary art museum in Downtown LA, known for broad collections, special shows, and bold architecture.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
World-class encyclopedic museum on Wilshire Boulevard, famous for diverse collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
Hollywood Boulevard
Legendary boulevard known for the Walk of Fame, theaters, neon, and classic Hollywood atmosphere mixed with tourist energy.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Lively beachside promenade with street performers, Muscle Beach, and easy access to the Venice Boardwalk scene.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Major urban park with trails, the observatory, picnic areas, and some of the best public views in Los Angeles.
Danger Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog grilled on a street cart and topped with peppers, onions, mustard, ketchup, and mayo. A late-night Los Angeles street food classic.
French Dip Sandwich
A French dip sandwich of thin-sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in meat jus. Los Angeles claims the original and locals still debate the best version.
- Gluten-free
Birria Tacos
Double corn tortillas filled with stewed beef, birria broth, onions, and cilantro. A beloved Los Angeles Mexican staple, especially popular from trucks and taquerias.
n/naka
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant serving a seasonal California tasting menu. Refined, intimate, and one of Los Angeles's most respected special-occasion venues.
Sonoratown
Legendary taqueria known for charcoal-grilled carne asada tacos. Casual, fast-paced, and widely considered one of Los Angeles's essential taco stops.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown deli linked to the French dip. Old-school counter service and classic sandwiches in a landmark Los Angeles setting.
United States dollar ($)
Los Angeles is pricier than many U.S. cities for hotels, dining, parking, and rides. Budget options exist, but tourist areas and transport costs raise daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or coffee.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25, while the average price is around $41.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA takes 2h 27m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 86 miles (140 km).
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 5:13 AM.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 7:59 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the train journey from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal landscapes, and picturesque Californian towns along the route.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Popular day trips by train from Los Angeles, CA include Anaheim, CA, Irvine, CA, Carlsbad, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Fullerton, 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.
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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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 Los Angeles, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chatsworth Station. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Los Angeles, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
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 Los Angeles, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Chatsworth Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Los Angeles, CA arrival station.
Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre
TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · $1002
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · $1071
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · $540
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.
Chatsworth Station10046 Old Depot Plaza Road, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Chatsworth Station from Los Angeles city centre
Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 45m · $10
VC Line · 48m · $10
Bus419 · 1h 16m · $5
419 · 1h 27m · $5
Metro G Line · 1h 36m · $5 · every ~11 min
Chatsworth Station train station facilities and services
Chatsworth Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chatsworth Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatsworth Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station7720 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Van Nuys, Metrolink Station from Los Angeles city centre
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 30m · $7
VC Line · 31m · $8
Bus20 · 2h 30m · $5 · every ~8 min
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station train station facilities and services
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.
Most popular train connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Los Angeles, CA
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