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

Thu, May 07
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 6h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $65, and a bus costs an average of $83.

Distance: 243 miles (392 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$82

Average price

Cheapest

$83

Average price

8h 32m

Average total duration

8h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $82 (€66).

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

A train is $0.23 (€0.18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $83 (€66).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 6h 50m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 8h 2m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.

Compare prices and tickets Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
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May 09
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May 10
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May 13

Journey information

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

USAUSA
USAUSA
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Trains from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 16:48. The fastest train covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 8h 20m.

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
Distance
243 miles (392 km)
Average train duration
8h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$65 (€52)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
8h 20m
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
4:48 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Best time to book
3 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

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, CA from $65 (€52). 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
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
Amtrak frequency
6 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 Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Maria, 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 Maria, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $65 (€52), while the average price is around $82 (€66).
The train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA takes 8h 20m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is 243 miles (392 km).
The first train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is by train, with a cost of around $65 (€52).
The train journey from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA offers scenic views of California's coastline, with sights of beaches, rolling hills, and picturesque towns along the Pacific Ocean, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers.
A day trip from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 8h 20m and the distance is 243 miles (392 km). The frequency of trains is 5 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 Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Santa Maria, 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 Maria, 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 Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Santa Maria
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Santa Maria is Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant) for your trip from Santa Maria to San Diego.
Santa Maria, South Nicholson Avenue (IHOP Restaurant)
information
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CASanta Maria, CA to San Diego, CA train

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