Traveling from Los Angeles CA to San Diego CA by train
Costs, timetables and connections from Los Angeles CA to San Diego CA
A typical train journey from Los Angeles to San Diego takes and costs . You can expect daily connections from Los Angeles. The first departure is at and the final train departs at .
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The route from Los Angeles CA to San Diego CA
Known as the Pacific Surfliner, this iconic train route is among California’s most beautiful. From serene seaside scenery to pretty mountain views, it takes in some of the state’s most breathtaking areas. The north-south train line itself encompasses some 111 miles. There are several different travel options available, with direct and slower trains. All, however, take in the same Pacific Coast Highway route, including the following important stops:
- Los Angeles, Union Station
- Santa Ana
- San Juan Capistrano
- Oceanside
- San Diego, Santa Fe Depot
Setting off from Los Angeles’ Union Station, you’ll find ample amenities and services nearby. Union Station is an impressive building constructed in an Art Deco style, and it serves as the city's main station. As a busy, major hub in the western United States, it’s recommended you arrive thirty minutes early to familiarize yourself with the area. It’ll also give you time to admire the many great features of Union Station; its architecture and public art.
From city sprawl to pretty vistas
From Union Station, you move steadily through Los Angeles’ sprawl, passing Fullerton and Anaheim. You can even see flashes of Disney Land's famed rides as you travel through Anaheim. You’ll also be able to catch glimpses of Limestone Canyon from the left-hand train window as you enter Orange County. The first major stop in Orange County is Santa Ana, a pretty city of Mission Revival-architecture.
As your train moves gently through Orange County, you’ll pass the iconic city of Irvine. This is where the scenery starts to open up, as your train veers south toward the coast. You’ll find views in the distance of Crystal Cove and wealthy suburbs under pretty hills. Reaching San Juan Capistrano, the train begins its most beautiful stretch along the coast from Capistrano Beach.
Experience the Surf Line
For this remaining portion of the journey, pay attention to the mesmerizing views from the right-hand side of the carriage. The train passes San Clemente Pier as it takes in swathes of open ocean views, hugging the coastal cliffs. There are plenty of unspoiled beach views, dry low-lying mountains, and dunes to see passing from San Onofre to Agra. Your next major station is Oceanside, renowned for its great surfing tradition and pretty pier populated by anglers.
It’s not far now to San Diego, and you’ll begin to see why this train journey is known as the Surf Line. Perfect conditions for surfing can be found from South Carlsbad State Beach to San Elijo State Beach. Depending on the time of day, you'll catch the busy activity of pro and amateur surfers enjoying these waves. If you’re lucky enough to be traveling at sunset, the ripples against the horizon are unforgettable. San Diego is equally alluring, with Torrey Pines and Mission Bay Park viewable before pulling into Downtown San Diego Station.
Discover cultural wonders and perfect surfing in San Diego CA
San Diego is simply bursting with family-friendly attractions and trendy activities. For many, Balboa Park is worth the trip alone. This multi-attraction park is the envy of California, a 1,200-acre space with 15 museums and a wealth of gardens. What’s more, the world-class San Diego Zoo is located here. Divided into alluring geographical zones, this is the perfect day out for families.
San Diego’s top attractions
The center of San Diego is equally brimming with attractions. One of the most alluring is Waterfront Park, where you'll find the Maritime Museum. Far from your normal maritime display, it consists of 11 historic ships, not least the famed Star of India. Nearby, you'll also find the USS Midway Museum, a former-aircraft carrier now interactive experience. The air combat flight simulators are particularly impressive.
For a feel of older San Diego, head to the Old Town, north of the harbor. Here, you'll find San Diego's first European settlements, pueblos, and houses from the early 19th century. Although many have been rebuilt, it's still a fascinating adventure into olden San Diego. The area is served by the same Pacific Surfliner you arrived in the city on.
All about the water
Of course, it wouldn’t be San Diego without a trip to the beach. North of the city, you’ll find the charming neighborhood of La Jolla. Renowned for its natural beauty and hilly hikes, it’s also a perfect place to swim and surf. If you're not hitting the waves, there’s still plenty to do. One of the most eccentric attractions is the Cave Store, a network of cave passages that are ready for exploration. There’s also a wonderful aquarium and marine research station here, Birch Aquarium at Scripps.
Food and drink in San Diego
San Diego has one of the most exciting dining scenes, thanks to its Mexican-meets-Californian flavors. One of the most popular spaces in town is the Gaslamp Quarter, home to 100 restaurants and bars. This once red-light area is now as trendy as it gets; you can learn about its darker days at the Gaslamp Museum. If seafood is more your thing, head to Point Loma for exquisite fish restaurants, including vendors at Liberty Market.
Another popular spot in town is Little Italy. Aside from the fantastic Italian restaurants and cafes, it's home to an eclectic range of bars. These include fine Californian wineries and craft beer taprooms, perfect for chilling out after a day sightseeing. There are some 150 breweries in San Diego alone, so there’s no shortage of choice.
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