Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Mon, Nov 24
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
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1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 25

Cheapest price

$49

Average price

$49

Fastest journey

6 h 14 m

Average duration

6 h 23 m

Trains per day

2

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 $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for San Diego, CA on Tue, Nov 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Nov 25 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 6 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 14 m .

On Tue, Nov 25 the slowest trains will take 6 h 31 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
11:33PM6h31
Santa Barbara, CA
06:04AMSan Diego, CA
$491One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak
01:53PM6h14
Santa Barbara, CA
08:07PMSan Diego, CA
$491One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, 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 bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 43m. 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 bus costs an average of €23, and a flight costs an average of €257.

Distance: 187 miles (302 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

€40

Average price

€40

Average price

Cheapest

€304

Average price

6h 40m

Average total duration

6h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 37m

Average total duration

6h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 43m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 1.8kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

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, Monday, November 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:43 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner2:39 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h28
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner2:53 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h14
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner2:53 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h00
8:53 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner4:31 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h33
11:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner4:49 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h15
11:04 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner4:49 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h01
10:50 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner8:21 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
12h29
8:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner8:21 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
12h43
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner9:31 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h33
4:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner9:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h19
4:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak784 Pacific Surfliner9:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h05
3:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, November 25
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner12:18 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h46
7:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner12:33 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h15
6:48 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner12:33 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h31
7:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner2:19 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h31
8:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner2:19 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h45
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner2:38 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h26
9:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Tue
Nov 25
Wed
Nov 26
Thu
Nov 27
Fri
Nov 28
Sat
Nov 29
Sun
Nov 30
Mon
Dec 01

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 16 times per day, taking around 6h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) by bus.

There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 18:57. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 6h 14m.

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 $28 (€23)
Distance
187 miles (302 km)
Average train duration
6h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$49 (€40)
Trains per day
16
Direct trains
12
Fastest train
6h 14m
First train
03:50
Last train
18:57
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 $28 (€23)

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 $28 (€23). 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
6h 14m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Amtrak frequency
5 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 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.

FAQs
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.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $49 (€40).
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 14m and the distance is 187 miles (302 km). There are 16 train options available per day.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
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.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 12 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA takes 6h 14m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is 187 miles (302 km).
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 first train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 6:57 PM.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

Santa Barbara
San Diego
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 San Diego.
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 San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA

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