The cheapest and fastest trains from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
Cheapest price
$35
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
2 h 23 m
Average duration
2 h 37 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
140 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Of the 8 trains that leave Union Station, Los Angeles, CA for Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA on Fri, Nov 07, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 140 km distance in an average of 2 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 23 m .
On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.
761 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
785 Pacific Surfliner
769 Pacific Surfliner
779 Pacific Surfliner
14 Coast Starlight
769 Pacific Surfliner
765 Pacific Surfliner
761 Pacific Surfliner
779 Pacific SurflinerTravel Information
Compare train and bus for Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €14. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, and a train costs an average of €24.
Distance: 86 miles (140 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€28 Average price | €23 Average price Cheapest |
3h 6m Average total duration 2h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
779 Pacific Surfliner | 12:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h45 | 2:58 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
785 Pacific Surfliner | 3:13 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h46 | 5:59 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
761 Pacific Surfliner | 3:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h42 | 5:55 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner | 5:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h37 | 7:50 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
765 Pacific Surfliner · 14 Coast Starlight | 5:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 3h01 | 8:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h03 | 2:54 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 1 transfer | |
14 Coast Starlight | 5:51 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h23 | 8:14 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
769 Pacific Surfliner | 7:13 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 2h36 | 9:49 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Nov 07
Nov 08
Nov 09
Nov 10
Nov 11
Nov 12
Nov 13
Nov 14
Nov 15
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Nov 19
Nov 20
Journey information
Overview: Train from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
Distance 86 miles (140 km) |
Average train duration 2h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 2h 23m |
First train 14:13 |
Last train 23:13 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA start from as low as $29 (€24) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $35 (€28) depending on the train type and class.
Train companies: Amtrak from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Union Station, Los Angeles, CA and Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA from $18 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Union Station, CA to Santa Barbara Station, CA
The train connection between Union Station in Los Angeles, CA, and Santa Barbara Station in Santa Barbara, CA, is a convenient and scenic option for travelers. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers comfortable seating and beautiful views of the California coastline along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, passengers can easily plan their journey to enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer.
Train Connection: Union Station, CA to Santa Barbara Station, CA
The train connection from Union Station in California to Santa Barbara Station takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara.
Union Station, CA to Santa Barbara Station, CA
The first daily train departs from Union Station at 14:13 and the last journey of the day leaves Santa Barbara Station at 22:13. This schedule allows travelers ample time to explore both cities while enjoying a scenic ride along California's coastline.
Train Tickets Price from Union Station, CA to Santa Barbara Station, CA
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between Union Station and Santa Barbara is $29 (26.1€). This fare offers an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara while enjoying scenic views along the way.
Exploring Santa Barbara: A Journey Through History and Beauty
Welcome to the Santa Barbara Mission, founded in 1786 as one of California's original 21 missions. This historic site is significant not only for its beautiful architecture but also for its role in spreading Christianity and agriculture among Native American populations during Spanish colonization. Unique features include the stunning gardens filled with native plants and a museum that showcases artifacts from both indigenous cultures and early missionary life.
Next, we arrive at Stearns Wharf, which dates back to 1872 when it was built by businessman J.C. Stearns as a shipping dock for goods like oil and fish. Its significance lies in being the oldest wharf still standing on the West Coast, serving as a vibrant hub for fishing activities while offering breathtaking views of the coastline. What makes this landmark truly special are its charming shops, restaurants featuring fresh seafood, and an aquarium where you can learn about local marine life.
Finally, let’s explore the Santa Barbara Courthouse—an architectural gem completed in 1929 that reflects Spanish-Moorish design influences prevalent throughout Southern California. The courthouse holds great historical importance as it symbolizes civic pride; it's often regarded as one of America’s most beautiful public buildings due to its intricate tile work and lush gardens surrounding it. Don’t miss climbing up to El Mirador tower—the panoramic view from here captures all of Santa Barbara's coastal beauty!
FAQs: Trains from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $1
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
- Cost $10
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Parking is available at the station.
- The Lark
- Santo Mezcal
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- Hotel Californian
- Harbor View Inn
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
Most popular train connections from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Union Station, Los Angeles, CA to Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA
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