HOW-TO GUIDE
How To Ride the Pacific Surfliner
Whether you're riding for the first time or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through every step, from boarding to arrival.
This Pacific Surfliner guide covers everything you need for a comfortable trip onboard, including your seat, getting your ticket scanned, using onboard amenities, and arriving at your destination ready to go.
Quick Summary
✅ Seat reservations are included with your ticket
✅ Coach and Business Class seating available
✅ Luggage racks available onboard
✅ Wi-Fi available on most trains
✅ Café Car available on most trains
✅ Restrooms available onboard
Train Layout
The standard Pacific Surfliner consists of six cars. The locomotive always faces away from Los Angeles Union Station.
Business Class
Business Class
Café Car
Coach
Coach
Coach / Bike
Business Class is located in Car 1 and 2. The Café Car is located in Car 3. Coach seating is located in Cars 4–6.
How to Board
1. Orient yourself on the platform
Use the information on station signage to find where your train will arrive.
2. Business Class passengers
Board through Car 1 at the front of the train.
3. Coach passengers
Board through Cars 3, 4, and 5. Seating is unassigned, so choose any open seat after boarding.
4. Traveling with a bike?
Bicycles are stored in Car 6 on the lower level. Make sure you have a bike reservation before boarding.
5. Store your luggage
Store luggage in designated luggage racks or overhead areas, then find your seat.
Finding Your Seat
Upper Level
The majority of passenger seating is upstairs, where you’ll find panoramic windows and many available seats.
Lower Level
Lower-level seating is intended for passengers with mobility needs and seniors.
Ticket Check
Once the train is underway, a conductor will walk through each car to scan tickets. Have either a digital ticket on your phone or a printed ticket ready. After scanning, the conductor may place a seat check above your seat.
What’s Available On Board
At Your Seat
Power outlets, reclining seats, tray tables, footrests, reading lights, and window views.
Free Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available throughout the train. Connect to the onboard network and follow the login instructions.
Restrooms
Restrooms are located throughout the train, including accessible restrooms on the lower level.
Market Café Car
The Café Car offers snacks, drinks, and other refreshments for purchase.
Business Class Upgrade
Available on most Pacific Surfliner trains, Business Class includes guaranteed seating, additional legroom, complimentary snacks and beverages, priority boarding at select stations, and bonus Amtrak Guest Rewards points.
Moving Between Cars
To move to another passenger car:
- Wait for the train to come to a complete stop if possible.
- Use the automatic doors between cars.
- Hold the handrails and watch your step.
Riding the Comet Cars
Occasionally, Pacific Surfliner operates a Comet Car trainset during special events, equipment shortages, or service disruptions. Unlike the standard train, Comet Cars are single-level and have several key differences:
ⓘ No Business Class
ⓘ No onboard Wi-Fi
ⓘ Manual doors
ⓘ No Market Café
ⓘ One restroom per car
ⓘ Limited movement between cars
If you purchased Business Class on a Comet Car service, you will automatically receive a refund for the fare difference.
Arriving at Your Destination
1. Listen for announcements
Train crews will announce stops as the train approaches each station.
2. Gather your belongings
Check around your seat and luggage area before exiting.
3. Move toward the exit doors
Station stops are brief, so be ready when the train arrives.
4. Wait for crew instructions
Not every door opens at every station. Follow crew directions when exiting.