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Trip Summary
3 trains operate daily from Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano. The train trip from Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano is usually about one hour long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 30 mi (48 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 0m |
| Lowest price | $15.90 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Pacific Surfliner |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano?
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is the one and only train line which connects Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Pacific Surfliner | 3 | 0h 41m | $15.90 |
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 3 train trips from Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano every day, and prices for a one-way train ticket start from $16.
Frequently Asked Questions
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano on Saturday. Tickets for Saturday 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.
The earliest train departs Carlsbad at 9:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 9:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 3 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Carlsbad to San Juan Capistrano.
You can also take a train for your return trip from San Juan Capistrano to Carlsbad.
City Information
San Juan Capistrano
Image credit: Unsplash
Located in Orange County, California, San Juan Capistrano is a small city founded by the Spanish in 1776. Although largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1812, this city is a growing destination south of Los Angeles and is often used as a backdrop in major Hollywood movies.
San Juan Capistrano has many historical religious sites to explore, and Mission San Juan Capistrano is one of its most renowned. The "Jewel of California Missions" includes a chapel with regular Mass, stunning gardens, and a museum to learn about the many Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences in the region. Visit in mid-March to experience the annual Return of the Swallows celebration. Local cliff swallows return from winters in Argentina, and the Mission plans parades, fairs, and other events to welcome them home.
The area around the Mission is a historic downtown with local restaurants, green spaces, and retail services. In the center of this historic core, San Juan Capistrano's Amtrak station welcomes Pacific Surfliner trains that run from Los Angeles to San Diego.
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 Juan Capistrano?
Main arrival station: 26701 Verdugo St
San Juan Capistrano has one train station.
All train stations in San Juan Capistrano:
26701 Verdugo St
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