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Trip Summary
3 trains operate daily from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad. The train trip from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad is usually about 8 hours long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 239 mi (385 km) |
| Fastest train | 8h 0m |
| Lowest price | $54.60 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Which train should you take from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad?
2 train services operate from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 8h 42m | $64.00 |
| Amtrak Pacific Surfliner | 1 | 7h 57m | $54.60 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $55.
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 1 train trips from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad every day, and prices for a one-way train ticket start from $55.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between San Luis Obispo and Carlsbad is approximately 239 miles, or 385 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Friday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Friday 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.
The earliest train departs San Luis Obispo at 3:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. 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 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from San Luis Obispo to Carlsbad. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Carlsbad 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: 1011 Railroad Ave
There is one train station in San Luis Obispo.
All train stations in San Luis Obispo:
1011 Railroad Ave
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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Need a return trip from Carlsbad to San Luis Obispo?
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