All aboard these scenic rail journeys California explorers will love
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Amtrak's Coast Starlight connects 25+ cities with scenic coastal California views.
- Pacific Surfliner offers 29 convenient beach and city stops from San Diego to SLO.
- Dreamstar Lines plans a luxury overnight L.A.–San Francisco train debut in 2026.
More travelers are ditching airport lines and traffic jams for train windows and coastline views — and for good reason. Scenic train rides are one of the most relaxing, stress-free ways to enjoy a California vacation.
Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic couples getaway or just looking for a calmer travel alternative, these train journeys in California offer a way to unwind, unplug and see the state through a whole new lens.
Amtrak Coast Starlight: Los Angeles to Seattle
The Coast Starlight features picturesque views across the Pacific coast, linking more than 25 California cities. If you’re really feeling inspired, the ride can continue into Oregon and Washington, stretching just over 1,100 miles and 35 hours before wrapping up in Seattle.
Why you’ll love it
Accommodations are thoughtfully designed with every traveler in mind.
Family rooms feature private bathrooms and showers, making kid cleanup a breeze.
Couples can opt for more spacious, upscale suites.
Solo travelers can enjoy the ride on a budget by booking a comfortable coach seat.
Route highlights
With 17 total stops across California, the coastal towns are yours to discover.
Santa Barbara
Board the train in Los Angeles and travel north to Santa Barbara. Here, you can enjoy the sun and sand with vacation options like relaxing on scenic boat tours, getting up close with exotic animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo, or strolling State Street’s quaint boutiques and restaurants.
San Francisco
While the Coast Starlight doesn’t stop directly in San Francisco, it connects nearby through the Emeryville station, just across the Bay. From there, Amtrak offers a convenient bus service that takes you straight into the heart of downtown San Francisco. Once you arrive, you can spend your day exploring Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Golden Gate Park and the lively neighborhoods full of hilly streets and the iconic cable cars that give the city its unmistakable charm.
Sacramento
California’s capital city is full of history and riverside views. Step off the train in downtown Sacramento and enjoy the Old Sacramento Waterfront, where gold-rush-era architecture meets trendy restaurants. Kids will also love the California State Railroad Museum — a highlight that makes the return train ride just as exciting as the journey there.
Dunsmuir
Nestled at the base of Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir is a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This peaceful mountain town has easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls and crystal clear swimming holes. With its slower pace and postcard-worthy backdrop, Dunsmuir is the perfect stop for a mountain retreat.
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: San Luis Obispo to San Diego
The Pacific Surfliner is a train ride to San Diego that you can’t miss. The 351-mile adventure takes you along the coastline, delivering stunning views as you go. This railway runs through major Southern California cities, home to ocean views, beaches and a convenient alternative to driving the busy highway.
Why you’ll love it
29 total stops to explore
Top surfing beaches
Family friendly
Bicycles and surfboards welcome
Route Highlights
Many stops along this route are walkable to beaches, historic landmarks and vibrant downtowns, making it one of the easiest ways to enjoy authentic California.
Carpinteria
Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Carpinteria is a laid-back coastal town that is perfect for a peaceful getaway. Find a relaxed beach town filled with fresh seafood and friendly locals just steps away from the train station. Swim or sunbathe at Carpinteria State Beach and refuel with fresh oysters from a local favorite, Little Dom’s. Hiking trails and alpaca farms help round out the adventures you can have in this low-key town.
Chatsworth
Chatsworth has become a Hollywood favorite since the silent film era. From westerns to adventure flicks, the area’s iconic Iverson Movie Ranch stood in for landscapes from around the world — including Asia and Africa. What’s even cooler is that part of the ranch is preserved and open to visitors.
Anaheim
Stopping in Anaheim is a must for families looking to experience the magic of Disneyland Resort. But there is more to Anaheim than theme parks. Sports fans can catch a game at Angel Stadium or the Honda Center, and beach lovers are just a short drive away from 42 miles of the most beautiful coastline in the country, including Huntington Beach Pier and the shores of Laguna Beach.
Coming soon: Dreamstar Lines’ overnight train
Dreamstar Lines, a California-based startup, is planning to debut a one-of-a-kind luxury train between Los Angeles and San Francisco by early 2026.
What to expect
High-end design in partnership with BMW Designworks
Lounges, dining, Wi-Fi, outlets and vehicle transportation
A more comfortable, stylish alternative to flying
While pricing and full details are still in development, Dreamstar Lines is reimagining what it means to be the best train ride California has to offer by transforming a simple trip into a world-class experience.
What to know before you book
Before you book your Amtrak tickets, check out these tips for a better experience:
Discounts are available for students and seniors.
Multi-ride passes offer flexibility.
Summer is the peak season — book early.
Service interruptions are possible because of construction or weather.
Get rolling across California
With new luxury routes and classic coastline views, train travel in California is on the rise. Whether you’re heading to San Diego, relaxing on the Pacific Surfliner or planning ahead for Dreamstar’s elevated sleeper line, the tracks are calling. Now’s the time to vacation in California in a whole new way — one mile of track at a time.