Route snapshot
| Route | San Diego (SAN) to Santa Barbara (SBA) |
|---|---|
| Stations | San Diego Santa Fe Depot to Santa Barbara Station |
| Trains | Pacific Surfliner |
| Typical travel time | about 5h 15m to 6h |
| How often | Several departures run on most days. |
San Diego to Santa Barbara train: what to expect
At about 5h 15m to 6h, this is a comfortable day trip. Bring a charger and something to read, since outlets and Wi-Fi vary by train. Several departures run on most days.
Stations in San Diego and Santa Barbara
Trains on this route run between San Diego Santa Fe Depot and Santa Barbara Station. In San Diego the station is at 1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA. The depot is downtown, within walking distance of the waterfront and the Gaslamp Quarter. In Santa Barbara the station is at 209 State St, Santa Barbara, CA. The station sits close to the beach and the State Street shopping district.
How to book cheap San Diego to Santa Barbara train tickets
- Book early: Fares generally rise as the seats on a train sell, so booking a few weeks ahead is usually the cheapest approach.
- Stay flexible by a day: Moving your trip by a day, or choosing a midweek or off-peak departure, can lower the fare noticeably.
- Check discounts: Senior, student, child and other eligible fares may be available, so ask when you call.
- On this route: This is one of the most scenic coastal train rides in California.
More train tickets from San Diego
More train tickets from Santa Barbara
More ways to book
New to rail travel? Read our guide on how to book a train, learn how to find cheap train tickets, or browse all train tickets from San Diego and from Santa Barbara.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from San Diego to Santa Barbara?
The trip takes about 5h 15m to 6h on the Pacific Surfliner, depending on the departure you choose.
How much do San Diego to Santa Barbara train tickets cost?
Fares depend on the travel date, how far ahead you book, the seat class and how full the train is. The cheapest tickets are usually bought early for off-peak departures. Call (888) 885-6306 and our team will check the lowest available fare for your dates.
Which stations do San Diego to Santa Barbara trains use?
Trains run between San Diego Santa Fe Depot (SAN) and Santa Barbara Station (SBA). Always confirm the station on your ticket, since some cities have more than one.
Is there a direct train from San Diego to Santa Barbara?
Many departures on this route are direct, but schedules vary by day and season, and some trips may involve a connection. Check the departures for your travel date before booking.
How do I book a train from San Diego to Santa Barbara?
Enter your cities and date in the search box on this page, or call (888) 885-6306. Our team can find and confirm a fare for you.