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

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
$85
Average ticket price on Nov 04
$85
Fastest journey on Nov 04
8 h 47 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
8 h 47 m
Trains on Nov 04
1
Distance
392 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Maria, 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 Maria, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.

Fast trains

On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 trains from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA, including 1 direct services.

On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 392 km distance in an average of 8 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 47 m .

On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 8 h 47 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
    0 transfers

Journey information

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

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Trains from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 8h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 16:48. The fastest train covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 8h 11m.

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

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Journey facts

  • Distance243 miles (392 km)
  • Average train duration8h 13m
  • Cheapest ticket price$63
  • Trains per day2
  • Direct trains2
  • Fastest train8h 11m
  • First train4:01 AM
  • Last train4:48 PM
  • Cheapest MonthOct
  • Cheapest DayFri
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Best time to book3 days

Understand & plan this route

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  • Why book with Omio?Compare options, payment & support
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 San Diego, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.

Train ticket prices from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63, while the average price is around $65.
The train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA takes 8h 11m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA is 243 miles (392 km).
The last train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:48 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

Live departures

Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak9:20 PM Santa Maria, CA
8h47
6:07 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies

Train companies from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA

Trains from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA with Amtrak. Night trains available on this route with Amtrak. High-speed trains available on this route with Amtrak. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Amtrak Duration
8h 11m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$63
Amtrak frequency
2 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Maria, CA and San Diego, CA

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.
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.

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.

Plan your visit to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA.

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.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, 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 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.

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
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA.

popular train stations

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

Most Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the to Santa Fe Depot station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Maria, 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 Maria
Arrival train stations in San Diego

Which San Diego, CA station do trains from Santa Maria, CA arrive at?

Trains from Santa Maria, CA to San Diego, CA arrive at Santa Fe Depot. Santa Fe Depot is 0 miles (1 km) from San Diego, CA city centre.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre

Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min

Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services

Santa Fe Depot 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: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.

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

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