Schedules

Schedule FAQs

• How do I read a Pacific Surfliner timetable?

  The easiest way to decide which schedule will work for you is to use our online booking tool.

  If you prefer to explore options via our digital timetable, start by downloading the PDF from the schedules page. Then find the page for the direction you wish to travel (northbound or southbound) and whether it’s on a weekday or weekend/holiday. The schedules are indicated as such at the top of the page.

  Once you are on the right page, look at the left column, find your departure station, and read across to the right to see all the departure times from that station. Some trains have different schedules on weekdays and weekends/holidays, so make sure you are looking at the correct page. Once you've found a departure time that works for you, follow the column down to find the arrival time at your destination station. The train number is located at the top of each column.

  Some trains connect with Amtrak Thruway bus routes to provide more travel options. Bus connections are designated on the schedule with orange shading.

• How do I plan a trip?

  Check out our Destinations page to see which cities are served by the Pacific Surfliner.

  Once you know where you’d like to go, use our online booking tool to explore your travel options. Choose “One-Way” or “Round-Trip”, enter your starting and ending stations, and indicate the dates you are interested in traveling. All of the available trains will appear as options once you click the “Submit” button.

  If you'd prefer to speak with an Amtrak representative, visit a staffed Amtrak station or call 1-800-USA-RAIL. Customers who are deaf or hard of hearing can access TTD/TTY service at 1-800-523-6590.

• Where can I buy my tickets?

  You can buy using our online booking tool or the Amtrak app, from Amtrak ticket agents at staffed stations, from Quik-Trak machines, or by phone at 1-800-USA-RAIL. Please note that certain promotions and discounts are only available online and require advance purchase.

• Part of my trip on the Pacific Surfliner involves a bus. How does that work and where should I go?

  Amtrak Thruway Bus Service offers guaranteed connections to Pacific Surfliner trains, extending travel possibilities. Dedicated bus routes fill gaps in the train schedule, link to other Amtrak routes, and provide the first or last connection to popular destinations such as Palm Springs and Long Beach.

  Trips with bus connections may show up as additional options as you are planning your trip online or in the Amtrak app. You can also view the trains with bus connections in our digital timetable. The buses are highlighted in orange on the schedule.

• What if my train is delayed?

  We strive to share real-time updates about delays and service disruptions on the PacSurfliners Twitter account. You can also view updates on the Alerts page. If your train is delayed and you are still waiting at the station, you can listen for announcements (at staffed stations) or look for updates via electronic signage. If you are onboard the train and it is delayed, please listen for conductor announcements.