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

Mon, Aug 24
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 24

Cheapest price

$49

Average price

$50

Fastest journey

6 h 10 m

Average duration

6 h 13 m

Trains per day

3

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 $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for San Diego, CA on Mon, Aug 24, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 24 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 6 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 10 m .

On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest trains will take 6 h 14 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
    2:53 PM6h14
    Santa Barbara, CA
    9:07 PMSan Diego, CA
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    2:50 AM6h10
    Santa Barbara, CA
    9:00 AMSan Diego, CA
    $491One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    1:53 PM6h14
    Santa Barbara, CA
    8:07 PMSan Diego, CA
    $501One-way
    0 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 $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 32m. 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 $49, and a flight costs an average of $65.

Distance: 187 miles (302 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$50

Average price

Cheapest

$63

Average price

$206

Average price

$53

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 38m

Average total duration

6h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 31m

Average total duration

6h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 32m

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 $50 (€40).

This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA:

A train is $14 (€11) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $63 (€51).

A train is $156 (€126) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $206 (€166).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 32m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 1m.

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 $50 (€40) compared to roughly $53 (€43) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $3 (€3). The journey takes 6h 9m versus 3h 44m 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, Sunday, August 23. 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
6h28
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h14
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
5h59
12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h36
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h03
2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h18
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
12h49
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
12h35
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner12:29 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h38
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h22
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner12:45 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h07
6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner2:47 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h20
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak6299 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner2:55 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h12
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak6299 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner2:55 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
5h57
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
5h48
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner3:04 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h03
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:25 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h42
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h11
10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner4:40 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h27
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h45
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner6:19 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h31
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner6:38 PM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA
6h26
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
5h50
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner7:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
6h04
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Monday, August 24
Amtrak2:50 AM Santa Barbara, CA
6h10
9:00 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

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.

Mon
Aug 24
Tue
Aug 25
Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30

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 18 times per day, taking around 6h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $43 (€34) 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 $43 (€34)
Distance
187 miles (302 km)
Average train duration
6h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$48 (€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
Jul - Sep
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 $43 (€34)

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 $43 (€34). 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 55m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Amtrak frequency
20 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, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

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
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€39), while the average price is around $50 (€41).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA takes 5h 55m and runs 19 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 14 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 $40 (€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 55m 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.

popular train stations

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

Most Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego

Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Diego, 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 CaliforniaSanta Barbara, CA 93106, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Barbara, University of California from Santa Barbara city centre

Santa Barbara, University of California is 13 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:

TRUE

Santa Barbara, University of California train station facilities and services

Santa Barbara, University of California has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Food court located nearby on campus.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available for passengers. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, University of California.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Barbara, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CASanta Barbara, CA to San Diego, CA train

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