Santa BarbaraLos Angeles
Wed, Jul 15, 1 adult
Wed, Jul 15
+ Add return
Wed, Jul 15
+ Add return

Cheapest
Amtrak
770 Pacific Surfliner
06:39AM3h7m09:46AM
Goleta Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
770 Pacific Surfliner
06:53AM2h53m09:46AM
Santa Barbara Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
774 Pacific Surfliner
08:31AM3h12m11:43AM
Goleta Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
774 Pacific Surfliner
08:49AM2h54m11:43AM
Santa Barbara Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Amtrak
14 Coast Starlight • 794 Pacific Surfliner
12:15PM9h31m09:46PM
Santa Barbara Station
Union Station
$1261One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
782 Pacific Surfliner
12:29PM3h16m03:45PM
Goleta Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
782 Pacific Surfliner
12:45PM3h0m03:45PM
Santa Barbara Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
786 Pacific Surfliner
02:47PM3h3m05:50PM
Goleta Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest, Fastest
Amtrak
786 Pacific Surfliner
03:04PM2h46m05:50PM
Santa Barbara Station
Union Station
$351One-way
Cheapest
Amtrak
790 Pacific Surfliner
04:25PM3h18m07:43PM
Goleta Station
Union Station
$351One-way

The cheapest and fastest trainsfrom Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CAShowing times and prices for Jul 14

Cheapest price

$35

Average price

$43

Fastest journey

2h 46m

Average duration

3h 29m

Trains per day

14

Distance

139 km

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Prices include taxes and may change depending on availability. Any additional fees can be reviewed before payment. The total price will be finalized once the purchase is completed.

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

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 $16. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 20m. 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 $16, and a train costs an average of $25.

Distance: 86 miles (140 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$34

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$20

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 31m

Average total duration

3h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 54m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $33 (€27).

This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA:

A bus is $0.66 (€0.54) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $34 (€28).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 20m.

Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 1m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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 $34 (€28) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-13.81 (€-11.38). The journey takes 3h 1m versus 1h 54m 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 Los Angeles, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner6:39 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h07
9:46 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h53
9:46 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h12
11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h54
11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
9h31
9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA1 transfer
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner12:29 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h16
3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
3h00
3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner2:47 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h03
5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h46
5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:25 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h18
7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
3h03
7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h52
9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner6:38 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
3h08
9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
2h46
9:46 PM 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.

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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 12 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€21) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

There are 10 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 52m.

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 $16 (€13)
Distance
86 miles (140 km)
Average train duration
3h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€21)
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
10
Fastest train
2h 52m
First train
5:13 AM
Last train
7:59 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
35 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 $16 (€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 $16 (€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
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€21)
Amtrak frequency
12 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 Getty Center

Hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and striking architecture plus sweeping city views.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€21), while the average price is around $34 (€28).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA takes 2h 52m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 5:13 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 86 miles (140 km).
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 10 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.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€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.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible since the journey takes 2h 52m. However, there are 11 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 86 miles (140 km).
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA include Anaheim, CA, Irvine, CA, Carlsbad, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Fullerton, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, 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 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 Van Nuys, Metrolink 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+1 800-872-7245LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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, USAParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

Santa Barbara, University of California

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Los Angeles, CASanta Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA train

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