Los Angeles to San Diego by Train

Travel from Los Angeles Union Station in Los Angeles, CA to San Diego Santa Fe Depot in San Diego, CA on the Pacific Surfliner. Approximately 154 miles in 3h 15m.

About this trip

The Pacific Surfliner connects Los Angeles and San Diego directly, with no transfer required. The train operates up to 13 daily round trips on segments, and the segment between these two stations is one of 66 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 154 rail miles takes about 3h 15m on a typical schedule. Actual travel time varies with the specific train number, time of day, equipment used, and seasonal speed restrictions. Trains may run faster on the daylight schedules and slower at peak demand on shared-use trackage. A more granular schedule comparison can be found in independent corridor timetable reviews updated each season.

Things to look out for: Open Pacific coast between San Clemente and San Diego; Santa Barbara Channel; Vandenberg coast.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Los Angeles and San Diego typically run between $10 and $36. The lower end represents Saver-bucket advance-purchase coach fares, while the upper end approximates same-day walk-up fares or premium-class buckets. Sleeping car accommodations on overnight runs of the Pacific Surfliner, when offered, are sold separately from rail fare and increase total ticket cost substantially.

RailRover does not sell tickets. To book this trip, visit the operating carrier (Amtrak (LOSSAN)) directly. Discounted fares are typically available with advance purchase, on midweek departures, and through loyalty programs. Several travelers track historical fare patterns on the corridor fare-watch newsletter to time their bookings.

Stations along the way

Between Los Angeles and San Diego, the Pacific Surfliner calls at the following stations. Some trains may operate as "limited-stop" schedules and skip certain intermediate calls; check the published timetable for your departure.

• Los Angeles Union Station — Los Angeles, CA LAX
• Fullerton — Fullerton, CA FUL
• Anaheim — Anaheim, CA ANA
• Santa Ana — Santa Ana, CA SNA
• Irvine — Irvine, CA IRV
• Oceanside — Oceanside, CA OSD
• Solana Beach — Solana Beach, CA SOL
• San Diego Santa Fe Depot — San Diego, CA SAN

Getting to Los Angeles Union Station and from San Diego Santa Fe Depot

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Los Angeles Union Station sits in Los Angeles, CA; arrival at San Diego Santa Fe Depot places you in San Diego, CA. Transfers from the platform to onward bus, light rail, or rideshare are well marked at the major hubs along this route. For specific transit connections at either station, see our station guides linked above.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the train from Los Angeles to San Diego take?

Approximately 3h 15m on a typical schedule, covering about 154 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Pacific Surfliner operates up to 13 daily round trips on segments with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $10 to $36 for a one-way coach ticket. Premium classes and sleeping car accommodations cost more.

Can I bring a bicycle or pet?

Most long-distance and corridor trains accept checked or carry-on bicycles and small pets in carriers, with route-specific rules. Confirm with Amtrak (LOSSAN) at the time of booking.