San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles by Train

Travel from San Luis Obispo in San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles Union Station in Los Angeles, CA on the Coast Starlight. Approximately 357 miles in 7h 18m.

About this trip

The Coast Starlight connects San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles directly, with no transfer required. The train operates daily, and the segment between these two stations is one of 121 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 357 rail miles takes about 7h 18m 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: Pacific coastline north of San Luis Obispo through Vandenberg Air Force Base — a stretch of beach unreachable by road; Cascade Mountains around Klamath Falls.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles typically run between $64 and $331. 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 Coast Starlight, 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) 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 San Luis Obispo and Los Angeles, the Coast Starlight 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.

• San Luis Obispo — San Luis Obispo, CA SLO
• Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara, CA SBA
• Oxnard — Oxnard, CA OXN
• Simi Valley — Simi Valley, CA SIM
• Van Nuys — Van Nuys, CA VNC
• Hollywood Burbank Airport — Burbank, CA BUR
• Glendale — Glendale, CA GDL
• Los Angeles Union Station — Los Angeles, CA LAX

Getting to San Luis Obispo and from Los Angeles Union Station

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. San Luis Obispo sits in San Luis Obispo, CA; arrival at Los Angeles Union Station places you in Los Angeles, 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 San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles take?

Approximately 7h 18m on a typical schedule, covering about 357 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Coast Starlight operates daily with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $64 to $331 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 at the time of booking.