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Trip Summary
You can pick from 3 daily train trips between Irvine and Carlsbad. The average train journey from Irvine to Carlsbad takes one hour, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 44 mi (72 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 0m |
| Lowest price | $18.35 |
| Trains per day | 3 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Pacific Surfliner |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Irvine to Carlsbad?
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is the one and only train line which connects Irvine to Carlsbad. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Pacific Surfliner | 3 | 0h 56m | $18.35 |
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 Irvine to Carlsbad every day, and prices for a one-way train ticket start from $18.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trains from Irvine to Carlsbad are the most crowded on Saturday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Irvine at 6:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 11:00pm. 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 Irvine to Carlsbad.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Carlsbad to Irvine.
City Information
Irvine
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Though Irvine is probably most famous for its corporations and university campuses, the city is well worth the trip for its variety of attractions and activities. Start with a date night at the Irvine Barclay Theatre, which boasts an intimate atmosphere and superb acoustics. You could also check out the UCI Arboretum, where you can learn more about the unique flora of the coastal California region. The Beall Center for Art + Technology features interesting exhibitions that fuse modern art with futuristic technologies.
When you've worked up an appetite, you can find a wide variety of dining options available in the city. For some of the best Japanese dishes in town, check out Fukuda, which serves udon and soba dishes. If you are craving a good chicken parm, North Italia has just what you need!
It's easy to get to Irvine from anywhere in Southern California via intercity buses or Amtrak trains. Flights operate through the nearby John Wayne Airport-Orange County Airport, just 4.3 miles away from downtown.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Irvine?
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Irvine Transp Ctr - 15215 Barranca Pkwy
Irvine Station – also known as Irvine Transportation Center – is the busiest station in South Orange County, serving over a million passengers annually. It first opened in 1990 on the south side of the decommissioned Marine Corps Air Station El Toro in the Spectrum district. The station serves Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner, Metrolink (Southern California's commuter rail system), and various local transit bus lines part of the Orange County Transportation Authority's network. In the vicinity of the station, there are hotels, offices, and shops. Irvine Station is also close to the Irvine Spectrum Center, one of SoCal's most popular entertainment and shopping destinations.
All train stations in Irvine:
Irvine Transp Ctr - 15215 Barranca Pkwy
Where is the train station in Carlsbad?
Main arrival station: 2775 State St - Coaster Station
Carlsbad has one train station.
All train stations in Carlsbad:
2775 State St - Coaster Station
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