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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Santa Maria to San Luis Obispo. The train trip from Santa Maria to San Luis Obispo is usually about one hour and 5 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as one hour.
| Distance | 26 mi (42 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 0m |
| Lowest price | $24.70 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Santa Maria to San Luis Obispo?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Santa Maria to San Luis Obispo. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 1h 6m | $24.70 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Santa Maria to San Luis Obispo every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $25.
Frequently Asked Questions
Monday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Santa Maria to San Luis Obispo. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Monday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Santa Maria at 9:00am and arrives in San Luis Obispo about an hour later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to San Luis Obispo with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from San Luis Obispo to Santa Maria.
City Information
San Luis Obispo
San Luis is a remarkable city known for accommodating travelers with different intents - those looking for nightlife, a laid-back experience, or a healthy mix of both. It is also known for its outstanding farmers' market with some of the best fruits and veggies in all of California. The historic Spanish Mission, art galleries, museums, wine, craft beer tasting room, and great restaurants can provide any type of fun you're looking for in the Sunshine State.
Want a truly unique experience? Swing by Bubblegum Alley, with walls lined with chewed bubblegum. Leave some yourself to make your mark! Or, for more traditional art, visit the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, with galleries displaying work by contemporary California artists.
SLO has two major bus and train stations in San Luis - 1011 Railroad Ave and Grand Avenue, Building 113. FlixBus and Amtrak Thruway buses both service the town for bus transport, and Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight provide train options. There is also a county airport that lets you fly in from wherever you are in the world and is located just two miles from the main city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Santa Maria?
Main departure station: Santa Maria Bus Stop
There is one train station in Santa Maria.
All train stations in Santa Maria:
Santa Maria Bus Stop
Where is the train station in San Luis Obispo?
Main arrival station: 1011 Railroad Ave
San Luis Obispo receives travelers from Santa Maria at its two active train stations.
Train stations in San Luis Obispo:
1011 Railroad Ave
1 Grand Avenue, Building 113
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