- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and naval history. One of the city's most visited cultural attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$50
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
5 h 48 m
Average duration
5 h 57 m
Trains per day
22
Distance
302 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast trains
Of the 22 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for San Diego, CA on Fri, Jul 10, 18 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 5 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 48 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest trains will take 6 h 3 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.
794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM5h50Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers- 782 Pacific Surfliner12:45 PM6h22Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM6h04Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM6h14Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA1:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM6h03Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA2:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM5h48Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM5h50Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM5h59Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA12:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM6h03Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA2:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM6h03Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$501One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $113.
Distance: 187 miles (302 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$49 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price | $246 Average price | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 39m Average total duration 6h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 37m Average total duration 6h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 40m Average total duration Fastest 4h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $49 (€40).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $15 (€12) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $64 (€52).
A train is $197 (€162) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $246 (€202).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 40m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 7m.
Train takes on average 6h 9m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
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 San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:39 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 6h28 | 1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h14 | 1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 5h59 | 12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 6h36 | 3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h18 | 3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h03 | 2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 12h49 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 12h35 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:29 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 6h38 | 7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h07 | 6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 782 Pacific Surfliner | 12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h22 | 7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 2:47 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 6h20 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h03 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 5h48 | 8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:25 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 6h42 | 11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h27 | 11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 790 Pacific Surfliner | 4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h11 | 10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h45 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h31 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 6:38 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 6h26 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 5h50 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 6h04 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 San Diego, CA?
The best time to book your train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA.
Trains
from $56Buses
from $44Flights
from $173Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 18 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€39) but you can travel from only $39 (€32) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 19:19. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 5h 53m.
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 $39 (€32)
Distance 187 miles (302 km) |
Average train duration 6h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€39) |
Trains per day 18 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 5h 53m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 7:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 $39 (€32)
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, CA from $39 (€32). 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
5h 53m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Amtrak frequency
18 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 San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park's flagship art museum, known for European old masters, South Asian art, and major rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Contemporary art museum with a major La Jolla campus and strong collection of postwar and current works, plus ocean-view architecture and installations.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
San Diego's signature urban park, filled with gardens, plazas, museums, and Spanish Colonial architecture. It is one of the city's essential places to explore.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
A scenic coastal area known for sea lions, turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most photographed ocean views in San Diego.
- Recommended
Seaport Village
A popular waterfront walking area with bay views, promenades, and public spaces near downtown, especially appealing at sunset and on casual strolls.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Baja-style fish tacos are a San Diego staple, usually made with battered or grilled local fish, cabbage, crema, and salsa in a corn tortilla.
California Burrito
A classic San Diego burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa, reflecting the city’s Mexican borderland food culture.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
A beloved local late-night dish of fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
Las Cuatro Milpas
An iconic casual spot in Barrio Logan known for house-made tortillas, rice, beans, and traditional Mexican plates with a no-frills atmosphere.
Point Loma Seafoods
A long-running waterfront seafood market and eatery loved for fresh fish sandwiches, chowder, and a classic San Diego harbor setting.
The Crack Shack
A popular casual restaurant serving upscale fried chicken, sandwiches, and local beers in a lively indoor-outdoor setting.
United States Dollar
San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near beaches and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€39), while the average price is around $49 (€40).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA takes 5h 53m and runs 18 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is 187 miles (302 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 7:19 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $39 (€32).
Yes, the train journey from Santa Barbara to San Diego is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque coastal landscapes, and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 53m and the distance is 187 miles (302 km). There are 16 train options available per day.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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