San Diego Amtrak Train

Seating Inside the Amtrak Surfliner Train on Way to Los Angeles

Riding the Pacific Surfliner is a very safe and comfortable experience. Each train has two levels with beautiful views of the coast. All seats recline, and many also have tables for those who would like to work or eat while onboard. At your seat, you’ll also find outlets and free WiFi access so you can stay connected.

Each car has a bathroom, as well as plenty of storage space for your luggage and bikes. Each train also has a cafe car where you can pick up refreshments, including coffee, sodas, wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as snacks and small meals.

If you opt for Business Class, you’ll get even more perks, including roomier seats, premium snacks, and a dedicated attendant. You’ll also get to guarantee your seat ahead of time.

You’ll need to purchase your Amtrak ticket before you get on the train. One of the easiest ways to do this is through the Amtrak app, where you can get a mobile pass. You can also order your ticket online and print it out ahead of time. Select stations do have kiosks where you can purchase a ticket in person, but this isn’t the most efficient option.

Once you get on the train, the conductor will pass through the car and check your tickets. You’ll need to have your ticket out and ready to scan. Then, you can relax and enjoy the trip. Be sure to listen for your stop, and start making your way downstairs a few minutes ahead of time.

Surfliner Train at the Last Stop in Downtown San Diego

Amtrak offers 13 daily round-trip routes on the Pacific Surfliner. Many of these trains only offer service between Los Angeles and San Diego, but five of them run up to Santa Barbara, and two continue further to San Luis Obispo.

The Pacific Surfliner runs from approximately 6 AM until midnight. Trains run approximately every hour, but schedules fluctuate, so be sure to check the schedule carefully when booking your ticket.

The train is most crowded during morning and evening rush hour, when the bulk of commuters are on board. It can also get very crowded on holiday weekends or during popular events like Comic-Con. On rare occasions, the train may be standing room only. To ensure you get a seat on these busy trips, get to the station early for boarding.

The cost of riding the Pacific Surfliner can vary. Pricing depends on your destination as well as the day and time of your trip. Amtrak does offer discounts for seniors, students, military members, and kids.

Try to Upgrade

Travelers in Business Class receive a guaranteed seat as well as a complimentary snack and drink, service from a dedicated attendant, priority boarding in Los Angeles and San Diego, and bonus Amtrak Guest Rewards points.

Generally, a trip between Downtown San Diego and downtown Los Angeles will cost about $35. San Diego to Santa Barbara costs about $45, while San Diego to San Luis Obispo costs about $60.

Regular Amtrak travelers can also purchase multi-ride tickets to save money. You can purchase six or 10 pass bundles, or you can purchase a monthly pass.

Amtrak Connections

Many Pacific Surfliner stations connect to other transit options. In San Diego, you can connect to MTS Trolley and public buses, NCTD buses, as well as the Coaster and the Sprinter train.

At many destinations along the route, you can also take Amtrak Thruway buses to many popular destinations. These buses can take you to major airports as well as universities and commercial districts.

In Los Angeles, you can connect to other Amtrak routes that will take you across the country. These routes connect to places like Seattle, Chicago, Phoenix, Kansas City, Dallas, and more.

Luggage on Amtrak

Each Pacific Surfliner car has large luggage racks. There’s also storage available below your seat or on overhead racks. Some stations will also allow you to check larger bags for your trip.