Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: The Ultimate Train Guide To All You Need to Know from San Diego to San Luis Obispo!

The Pacific Surfliner is one of the most scenic train rides in North America. 

  1. Important Information
  2. Stations and Train Times
  3. Tips For Riding The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
  4. Things To See During Your Trip
  5. San Luis Obispo To Los Angeles
  6. Los Angeles To Anaheim
  7. Anaheim To San Diego
train,pacific surf liner
Image by Tobi from Pixabay / usa,california,san diego,del mar,train,pacific surf liner

This Amtrak train travels through some of the most breathtaking coastlines, zipping past sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and historic redwood forests. 

The 300-mile stretch between Orange County and San Diego is known as the Surf Line because of its strong waves, perfect for surfing. 

It’s also an ideal location for anyone who wants to spend a weekend exploring nature or visiting one of the many beautiful cities along this route. 

Armed with this info, you can enjoy your next trip on the Pacific Surfliner even more! 

If you are anything like me, you probably get excited about train travel. 

The quiet and smooth ride, the scenic nature of your surroundings, and the excellent opportunity to read a book or simply relax without distraction; all of that can be found on a train. 

If you love trains as much as I do, then you will also love this article about Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. 

It’s one of the best ways to explore California and its many railway stations. 

We’ll dive into everything you need to know about accessing this train service as well as its stops and stations between San Luis Obispo and Oceanside.

But what exactly is this blog-post about? 

Let’s find out!

Important Information

Service Hours: The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is accessible between 6 am – 10 pm each day. 

There are a few exceptions to this rule, so make sure to check the website for the updated train times. 

Tickets: Tickets for the Pacific Surfliner can be purchased online or at the station. Prices vary depending on the time of the year and the type of ticket you purchase. 

Baggage: You can bring up to 2 pieces of checked baggage on this train ride. If you’re bringing a bike, it must be checked. 

You can also bring up to 2 pieces of carry-on luggage. 

Pets: If you want to bring your furry friends along on the ride, you must make a reservation for them. 

You’ll also need to bring proof of vaccination and a health certificate signed by a vet. 

Wheelchair Accessibility: The Pacific Surfliner is wheelchair accessible throughout their whole route.

Stations and Train Times

There are 3 stations along the Pacific Surfliner route: San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles, and San Diego. 

You can find the exact trains running between these stations on the Amtrak website. 

The Amtrak San Luis Obispo Station is located at 1089 Monterey St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401. 

The Amtrak Los Angeles Station is located at 800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. 

The Amtrak San Diego Station is located at 111 East Santa Fe, San Diego, CA 92101. 

Trains from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles are as follows: 

– Train #36: Leaves San Luis Obispo at 5:58 am and arrives in Los Angeles at 8:51 am. 

– Train #35: Leaves San Luis Obispo at 6:10 am and arrives in Los Angeles at 8:53 am. 

– Train #29: Leaves San Luis Obispo at 6:35 am and arrives in Los Angeles at 9:08 am. 

Trains from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo are as follows: 

– Train #33: Leaves Los Angeles at 9:50 am and arrives in San Luis Obispo at 12:43 pm. 

– Train #30: Leaves Los Angeles at 10:30 am and arrives in San Luis Obispo at 1:05 pm. 

– Train #28: Leaves Los Angeles at 11:10 am and arrives in San Luis Obispo at 1:50 pm.

Tips For Riding The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Get There Early: If you have a long layover in between stops, arrive early to avoid missing your train. 

The trains can get booked up quickly, so you don’t want to risk being late for the next leg of your journey. 

Book Advance Seats: If you’re interested in a specific seat on the train, make sure to reserve it in advance and check your seat when you board the train. 

You can book your seat on the Amtrak website. 

Bring Food: If you’re bringing food on board, make sure to keep it in an approved container. 

Bring Water: You can also bring water on board if you’re feeling thirsty, just make sure to keep it in a spill-free container.

Things To See During Your Trip

If you have time to explore one of the train stops along the way, we highly recommend it. 

Each station has its own unique culture and charm, and each one is worth a visit. 

If you have limited time and can’t visit each station, we recommend stopping at the following: 

 San Luis Obispo – This is the starting point of the Pacific Surfliner. 

It’s also the home of the California Polytechnic State University. 

Other attractions include the Madonna Inn and Edna Valley Vineyards. 

– Santa Barbara – This is the second stop on the Pacific Surfliner. It’s known for its sandy beaches and is a popular vacation spot for many people. 

– Los Angeles – The Pacific Surfliner’s third stop is at Union Station. 

This is one of the biggest train stations in the country, making it a popular tourist spot. 

– San Diego – This is the final stop on the Pacific Surfliner. It’s the largest city in Southern California and is home to many popular attractions.

San Luis Obispo To Los Angeles

– Old Town San Luis Obispo: This is the oldest part of the city and a popular spot for tourists. 

It has been in operation since 1838 and is known for its historic charm. 

– Avila Beach: This is one of California’s most beautiful beaches and is a great place for a day trip. 

It’s a sandy beach with crystal blue water, making it a popular spot for surfing. 

– Pismo Beach: This is another sandy beach that’s great for surfing. 

It’s also a popular location for wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other sea creatures! 

– Santa Barbara: This is the second stop on the Pacific Surfliner. 

It’s a popular vacation spot with sandy beaches and plenty of attractions. 

– Los Angeles: This is the third stop on the Pacific Surfliner and is one of the biggest cities in the country. 

It’s a very popular tourist destination with plenty of attractions to keep you busy.

Los Angeles To Anaheim

– Disneyland: This is one of the most popular theme parks in the country. It has been a family destination for decades and is home to some of the most loved characters. 

– California Science Center: This museum is a great place for kids and families to explore. It has many educational exhibitions that are sure to spark curiosity in anyone who visits. 

– Griffith Park: This is one of the most popular parks in Los Angeles, and it’s a great place for a day trip. 

It has many different trails, including one that leads to a popular Hollywood sign. 

– Santa Monica Beach: This is a popular beach in Southern California. 

It’s often compared to the beach in Sydney, Australia, and is a great place to visit. 

– Venice Beach: This beach is known for its boardwalk and is a popular spot with both tourists and locals. 

It’s a great place to visit if you want to experience Southern California life!

Anaheim To San Diego

– San Diego Zoo: This is one of the most popular zoos in the country. 

It’s home to many different types of animals and is a great family attraction. 

– Balboa Park: This is one of the oldest parks in the country. 

It’s home to many different museums, gardens, and attractions that are sure to spark curiosity in everyone. 

– Coronado Beach: This is a sandy beach that’s ideal for swimming. 

It has clear blue water and is a popular vacation spot for many people. 

– Candlestick Park: This is a historic stadium that has hosted many sporting events. 

It’s located on the water and is a popular place for tourists and locals to visit.

Final Words

There are few modes of transportation as scenic or relaxing as a train ride. 

Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner is one of the most scenic train rides in North America. 

This Amtrak train travels through some of the most breathtaking coastlines, zipping past sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and historic redwood forests. 

The 300-mile stretch between Orange County and San Diego is known as the Surf Line because of its strong waves, perfect for surfing. 

It’s also an ideal location for anyone who wants to spend a weekend exploring nature.

Brandon York
Brandon York
Articles: 28

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