With workers spending more time commuting in 2025 than in the previous two years, it’s no surprise that many Southern Californians are rethinking how they get around. As traffic congestion continues to test patience and productivity, train travel is emerging as a smarter, more relaxing alternative—whether you’re commuting for work or planning a coastal getaway.
Now, there’s even more reason to hop on board.
Pacific Surfliner Adds New Daily Roundtrip Between Los Angeles and San Diego
The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency has announced a major service expansion for the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner®, one of the busiest and most scenic intercity rail routes in the country.
Beginning January 26, 2026, travelers will enjoy a new daily roundtrip between Los Angeles and San Diego, bringing the total to 13 daily roundtrips along the popular coastal corridor. The updated schedule is designed to reduce wait times between trains, giving riders more flexibility and making it easier than ever to plan trips with confidence.
To celebrate the milestone, passengers can use code V526 to receive 20% off Pacific Surfliner rides between January 26 and March 13, 2026.
A Milestone Moment for Southern California Rail
With the new service in place, Pacific Surfliner operations now include:
- 13 daily roundtrips between Los Angeles and San Diego
- Five daily roundtrips between San Diego and Goleta
- Three full-corridor daily roundtrips between San Diego and San Luis Obispo
These frequencies officially restore Pacific Surfliner service to pre-pandemic levels, reaffirming its role as one of the most heavily used state-supported intercity rail services in the United States. The restoration was made possible through a $27.1 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Restoration and Enhancement (R&E) Grant Program.
More Connections, More Destinations
In addition to expanded rail service, riders continue to benefit from Amtrak® Connection bus service, offering guaranteed connections:
- North to Oakland
- Southeast to Indio
These connections extend access to destinations such as Solvang, Paso Robles, Riverside, Palm Springs, and Palm Desert, making the Pacific Surfliner a convenient hub for exploring California beyond the coast.
Ride in Comfort Along the Coast
Stretching 351 miles and serving 29 stations from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, the Pacific Surfliner is designed for comfort and convenience. Most trains feature:
- Spacious, reclining seats
- Power outlets and complimentary Wi-Fi
- Bike and luggage storage
- A Market Café offering fresh food, California wines, and local craft beer
Whether you’re working onboard, catching up on a book, or simply enjoying ocean views you can’t get from the freeway, the journey is part of the experience.
A Better Way to Travel in 2026
As commuting times grow and flexibility becomes more important than ever, the expanded Pacific Surfliner schedule offers Southern Californians a chance to reclaim their time, reduce stress, and travel more sustainably.
For workdays, weekends, or coastal adventures, 2026 is shaping up to be the year train travel truly gets back on track.
