San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA Train

Traveling from San Diego, CA, to Los Angeles, CA by Train

Amtrak operates the train service from San Diego to Los Angeles, primarily on the Pacific Surfliner Route. This route offers direct connections, but occasionally, parts of the journey might be substituted by a bus or shuttle from the Amtrak Thruway bus service due to unforeseen circumstances. The trip typically lasts around 3 hr 23 min, with approximately 38 trains departing daily. The average ticket price is $35.94, with the lowest fares starting at about $32.47.

The Pacific Surfliner train line, connecting Louis Obispo and San Diego, serves several stations, including Solana Beach, Oceanside, San Clemente Pier, San Juan Capistrano, Irvine, Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Fullerton before reaching Los Angeles. The trains travel at an average speed of 41.2 miles per hour (66 km/h), reaching up to 90 miles per hour (145 km/h). Passengers can enjoy stunning South Californian scenery along the coast, with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a Market Cafe offering snacks, beverages, and fresh food. The trains also accommodate pets up to 20 pounds and provide racks for surfboards or bicycles.

Train Stations in San Diego and Los Angeles

In San Diego, travelers can start their journey from two stations:

1. Old Town Station: Located near the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Palace, this station is also a hub for the San Diego Trolley, local buses, and the Coaster commuter rail.
2. Santa Fe Depot: The main train terminal of the city, built in a Spanish Colonial style, serves as a station for the Green Line of the San Diego Trolley and the COASTER commuter rail service.

The central station in Los Angeles is Union Station, which is in downtown Los Angeles. It's a hub for various transportation options, including Metro rail lines, Metrolink regional trains, and several bus routes. The FlyAway express bus service also connects to LAX from here.

What to see in Los Angeles

1. Explore the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre.
2. Visit the Getty Center to see impressive art collections and enjoy stunning city views.
3. Experience the magic of Universal Studios Hollywood, a film studio and theme park.
4. Relax at Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the beach, amusement park, and eateries.
5. Discover the vibrant arts and culture in the Downtown Arts District.
6. Stroll through Griffith Park and visit the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views.
7. Shop and dine in the luxurious Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
8. Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for diverse art collections.
9. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Venice Beach Boardwalk.
10. Learn about space and science at the California Science Center.

What to Eat in Los Angeles

1. Tacos: A staple in LA's food scene, reflecting the city's rich Mexican heritage.
2. Avocado Toast: A popular and healthy option in many LA cafes.
3. Korean BBQ: Savor delicious grilled meats in Koreatown.
4. Poke Bowls: Fresh and flavorful Hawaiian-inspired seafood bowls.
5. California Roll: LA's unique twist on sushi.
6. Ramen: Enjoy diverse and savory ramen options throughout the city.
7. French Dip Sandwich: An LA original, best enjoyed at Philippe's or Cole's.
8. Green Juice: A refreshing choice for health-conscious Angelenos.
9. Street Food: LA's street food, from bacon-wrapped hot dogs to fruit carts, is a must-try.
10. In-N-Out Burger: Experience this iconic Californian burger chain.

Travel Tips for your Los Angeles Train Journey

1. Plan Days Around Single Neighborhoods: Los Angeles is vast, and each neighborhood offers a unique experience. It's recommended to plan your days around specific neighborhoods, especially those close together, to maximize your experience and minimize time spent in traffic.
2. Avoid Trying to Cover Too Much in One Day: Due to LA's size and traffic, jumping around the city in a single day is not practical. Plan your schedule to avoid spending too much time commuting between distant areas.
3. Explore Nature: LA is surrounded by natural beauty. Plan a day for outdoor activities like hiking in the Angeles National Forest, visiting Antelope Valley for the California Poppies, or taking a surfing lesson.
4. Use Public Transportation: While LA is known as a car city, it does have a public transit system. Public transportation can be cheaper, quicker, and less stressful than driving, especially considering traffic and parking challenges.
5. Seek Out Local Food Experiences: LA's diverse population means many international cuisine options. Don't hesitate to try new foods from different cultures, and look for dining options in unassuming places, like strip malls, for hidden culinary gems.