Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA train with Amtrak

Sat, Nov 29
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Showing times and prices for Dec 01

Cheapest price

$35

Average price

$35

Fastest journey

3 h 11 m

Average duration

3 h 11 m

Trains per day

1

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 $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Mon, Dec 01, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Dec 01 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 3 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 11 m .

On Mon, Dec 01 the slowest trains will take 3 h 11 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
11:33PM3h11
Santa Barbara, CA
02:44AMLos Angeles, CA
$351One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €13. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 19m. 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 €13, and a train costs an average of €26.

Distance: 86 miles (140 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€28

Average price

€24

Average price

Cheapest

3h 29m

Average total duration

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

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, Sunday, November 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 5:10 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner2:39 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h07
5:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner2:53 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h53
5:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner4:31 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h12
7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner4:49 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h54
7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner8:21 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
9h31
5:52 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1 transfer
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner9:31 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h17
12:48 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner9:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
3h03
12:48 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Monday, December 1
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner12:18 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h26
3:44 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner12:33 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
3h11
3:44 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak11 Coast Starlight2:19 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h52
5:11 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner2:38 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h14
5:52 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner2:57 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h55
5:52 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 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 Los Angeles, 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.

Mon
Dec 01
Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07

Why should you book Santa Barbara to Los Angeles trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles. 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 Barbara to Los Angeles.

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 Barbara to Los Angeles.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA?

The best time to book your train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 63 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $17 (€13) by bus.

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (140 km) distance in 3h 11m.

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 $17 (€13)
Distance
86 miles (140 km)
Average train duration
2h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
3h 11m
First train
05:35
Last train
19:59
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 $17 (€13)

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 $17 (€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
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Amtrak frequency
6 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

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.

FAQs
To fully experience Los Angeles, CA, it's ideal to spend at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to visit popular attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Getty Center, while also exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.
In Los Angeles, CA, you can explore Venice Beach Boardwalk with its eclectic shops and street performers, visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience, or take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic city views. Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or discover unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Best sights include the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and astronomy exhibits, The Getty Center for art and gardens, the historic Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) with its diverse collections.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $35 (€28).
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible since the journey takes 3h 11m. However, there are 11 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 86 miles (140 km).
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 86 miles (140 km).
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€13).
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.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 5:35 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA takes 3h 11m and runs 11 per day.
Yes, you can take the train 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.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 7:59 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night 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 10 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA

Santa Barbara
Los Angeles
The major train station for departures in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara Station for your trip from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles.
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Dining
Dining
  • The Lark
  • Santo Mezcal
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Californian
  • Harbor View Inn
  • Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
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
  • The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
Goleta StationParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
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
1
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available adjacent to the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.
Dining
Dining
  • The Habit Burger Grill
  • Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • Free for passengers
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
  • Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the platform
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station consists of a single platform with a waiting area and parking facilities nearby.
Public transit options for Goleta Station
  • Bus: Santa Barbara MTD Line 6, Line 11
Santa Barbara, University of California
information

Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara, CA

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