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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Carlsbad and San Diego. The average train journey from Carlsbad to San Diego takes very little time, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 33 mi (52 km) |
| Lowest price | $11.75 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Pacific Surfliner |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Carlsbad to San Diego?
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is the one and only train line which connects Carlsbad to San Diego. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Pacific Surfliner | 2 | 0h 22m | $11.75 |
The Pacific Surfliner is Amtrak’s passenger train service that runs along the Pacific coast of Southern California, connecting San Luis Obispo to the north with San Diego to the south. The line is among the most famous Amtrak routes due to the unique scenic views it presents, as the train parallels the coastline for large portions of the 268-mile railroad stretch. The Pacific Surfliner offers first-class amenities like onboard restrooms, free WiFi, seats with extra legroom and power outlets, as well as storage racks for surfboards. On average, the service offers 2 train trips from Carlsbad to San Diego every day, and prices for a one-way train ticket start from $12.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thursday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Carlsbad to San Diego. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Thursday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Tuesday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Carlsbad at 12:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 12:00am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Carlsbad twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to San Diego with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from San Diego to Carlsbad.
City Information
San Diego
San Diego is known as "America's Finest City" for its sunny weather, white-sand beaches, and dazzling attractions from Belmont Park to SeaWorld. San Diego's 70 miles of pristine beaches include such gems as Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Coronado Beach. The city's strong surfing culture may even inspire you to rent a surfboard and catch the epic waves, bro.
Visitors can spend days getting lost in Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural hub which features 16 museums, immaculate gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The historic heart of the city, Old Town, showcases San Diego's heritage and ties to Mexican culture, while other sights like the USS Midway pay tribute to the city's military and maritime history. Leave time for some evening exploring, too! San Diego is rated the #1 best city for craft beer in America, so don't miss out on the bars in the Gaslamp Quarter: 16 walkable blocks packed with nightlife and young crowds.
Two airports, as well as many bus and train options, mean it is easy to get to San Diego from afar or from nearby cities like Tijuana, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Carlsbad?
Main departure station: 2775 State St - Coaster Station
There is one train station in Carlsbad.
All train stations in Carlsbad:
2775 State St - Coaster Station
Where is the train station in San Diego?
Main arrival station: 11170 Sorrento Valley Rd
San Diego has one train station.
All train stations in San Diego:
11170 Sorrento Valley Rd
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