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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista. The train trip from San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista is usually about 2 hours and 48 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 2 hours and 15 minutes.
| Distance | 75 mi (121 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 15m |
| Lowest price | €29.84 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista was €29.84. At this price, taking the train is the cheap and easy way to go. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Isla Vista if you book your train tickets at least 11 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra €5.60.
Monthly average prices
Which train should you take from San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista. 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 | 2h 49m | €30.82 |
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 San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €30.
Frequently Asked Questions
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from San Luis Obispo to Isla Vista on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves San Luis Obispo at 16:00 and arrives in Isla Vista around 2 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Isla Vista 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 Isla Vista to San Luis Obispo.
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 San Luis Obispo?
Main departure station: 1 Grand Avenue, Building 113
There are two stations in San Luis Obispo where you can board the train to Isla Vista.
All train stations in San Luis Obispo:
1 Grand Avenue, Building 113
1011 Railroad Ave
Where is the train station in Isla Vista?
Main arrival station: UCSB Bus Loop
Isla Vista has one train station.
Train stations in Isla Vista:
UCSB Bus Loop
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Need a return trip from Isla Vista to San Luis Obispo?
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