- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
Orange County’s leading contemporary art museum, presenting rotating exhibitions and acclaimed modern artists near UC Irvine.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA and enjoy the approximately 173 miles (279 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 17:52.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance173 miles (279 km)
- First train4:40 AM
- Last train5:52 PM
- Cheapest MonthSep
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
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
Frequently asked questions about your Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA.
The distance by train from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA is 173 miles (279 km).
The first train from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 4:40 AM.
The last train from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 5:52 PM.
Complete guide to Irvine, CA
Things to do in Irvine, CA
Discover the best of Irvine, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine, CA trip today.
- Recommended
University Art Gallery at UC Irvine
University art museum featuring exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, with thought-provoking programs and free admission.
- Recommended
Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Historic farm site with interpretive exhibits, original structures, and programs that bring Orange County’s agricultural past to life.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Major civic park with trails, sports areas, art spaces, and the iconic balloon, popular with both visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Irvine Spectrum Center
Lakeside shopping and entertainment district with landscaped plazas and a lively pedestrian setting day and night.
- Recommended
Aldrich Park
Circular park at the heart of UC Irvine with mature trees and paths, ideal for walking, picnics, and campus atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a Southern California staple: battered or grilled fish in corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and salsa. They reflect the region’s Baja and coastal influence.
California Roll
California rolls were popularized in Southern California sushi culture. Crab, avocado, and cucumber make them approachable and iconic to the region’s Japanese influence.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a modern California café classic. Fresh avocado on artisan bread showcases the state’s produce culture and everyday brunch habits.
Habuya Okinawan Dining
Established Japanese restaurant in Diamond Jamboree known for quality sushi, izakaya dishes, and a polished yet comfortable setting.
North Italia
Well-known upscale-casual venue serving seasonal Californian cuisine. Stylish room and dependable service make it a strong fine dining option.
85C Bakery Cafe
Highly regarded Taiwanese bakery café famous for sea salt coffee, breads, and desserts. Casual, busy, and representative of Irvine’s café culture.
US Dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is limited, so visitors often need taxis or rental cars, raising daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant 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 and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
Plan your visit to Irvine, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Irvine, CA.
The train journey from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA offers scenic views as it travels along the Pacific coastline, providing passengers with glimpses of the ocean, rolling hills, and diverse landscapes typical of California's central coast and southern regions.
Popular day trips by train from Irvine, CA include San Diego, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Solana Beach, CA, Oceanside, CA, Carlsbad, CA.
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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
No, you cannot take the train from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA
Most Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA trains use the Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) to Irvine Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Maria, CA and Irvine, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santa Maria
Arrival train stations in Irvine
Which Santa Maria, CA station do trains to Irvine, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA leave from Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant). The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Santa Maria, CA city centre at 202 Nicholson Ave, Santa Maria, CA 93454, USA.
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant)202 Nicholson Ave, Santa Maria, CA 93454, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) from Santa Maria city centre
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) is 1 km from Santa Maria city centre. Public transport options include:
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Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) train station facilities and services
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: IHOP Restaurant on-site.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant). ATMs are available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant): Wheelchair accessible paths available.
Which Irvine, CA station do trains from Santa Maria, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA arrive at Irvine Station. Irvine Station is 4 miles (8 km) from Irvine, CA city centre.
Irvine Station15215 Barranca Parkway, Irvine, CA 92618, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Irvine Station from Irvine city centre
Irvine Station is 8 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainOC Line, IE-OC Line · 7m · L 35 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 24m · L 12 · every ~1 min
86 · 25m · L 12 · every ~1 min
86 · 28m · L 12 · every ~1 min
Irvine Station train station facilities and services
Irvine Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Del Frisco's Grille, The Cheesecake Factory
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Irvine Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Irvine Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Irvine Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Irvine Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Marriott Irvine Spectrum, Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum, DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum.
Train stations for Santa Maria, CA to Irvine, CA
Check train stations information for Santa Maria, CA and Irvine, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Santa Maria, CA that goes to Irvine, CA is Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant), which connects to Irvine Station.
Most popular train connections from Santa Maria, CA
Most popular trains to and from Irvine, CA and Santa Maria, CA
Most popular train connections to Irvine, CA
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