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Trains to Solana Beach: The Complete Rail Travel Guide

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Solana Beach, located on the coast of San Diego County, can be easily accessed by trains. Many travelers from Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and the East Coast can get to Solana Beach without driving a car, thanks to the COASTER and the Amtrak trains. This guide can help you with costs, timetables, and tips on how to get the best deals on train tickets and how to plan your trip to Solana Beach. 

Why Take a Train to Solana Beach? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel

Solana Beach is probably the best place to take the train because it’s located on the coast. Traveling down the I-5 is a complete mess, but the train travels on a separate route known as the Surf Line. The path hugs the coastline and passes through Del Mar and San Clemente, where the train passes right by the ocean. The train offers views that are superior to the freeway.

Here’s why more travelers are choosing rail over driving or flying for this trip:

  • Scenic coastal views: The Pacific Surfliner route is consistently ranked among Amtrak’s most scenic corridors, with uninterrupted ocean views along parts of San Diego and Orange counties.
  • No parking headaches: Solana Beach’s beach parking is notoriously limited, especially in summer. Arriving by train means you skip the search entirely.
  • Central, walkable station: Solana Beach Station drops you right into the Cedros Design District, minutes from the beach, restaurants, and shops.
  • Affordable fares: One-way Pacific Surfliner tickets to Solana Beach can start as low as $14-31 depending on origin and how early you book.
  • Free onboard amenities: Wi-Fi, power outlets, extra legroom, and a café car make the journey comfortable even for longer trips.
  • Eco-friendly travel: Train travel produces a fraction of the carbon footprint compared to driving solo or flying short-haul routes.
  • Easy regional connections: Solana Beach connects smoothly to San Diego, Oceanside, Los Angeles, and beyond via COASTER and Pacific Surfliner transfers.

Note: Trains now offer a style of travel. Some travelers love to take long trips, leisurely, to enjoy the journey instead of just getting there. The California route of the Pacific Surfliner is considered one of the most beautiful spots to take a scenic rail trip, with the route hugging the Pacific Ocean bluffs in Del Mar and San Clemente. Even the route in the distance is safe for you to enjoy the scenery of surfers, ocean, sunsets, and the beautiful sky of California. For family travelers, the train provides you with endless room to stroll and enjoy a snack at the cafe.

Which Trains Go to Solana Beach? Major Rail Services Explained

Two major rail services stop directly at Solana Beach Station, and understanding the difference helps you pick the right one for your trip.

ServiceOperatorCoverage AreaBest For
Amtrak Pacific SurflinerAmtrakSan Diego to San Luis Obispo (via LA, Orange County, Santa Barbara)Longer-distance trips, comfort, reserved seating
COASTERNorth County Transit District (NCTD)Oceanside to San Diego (Old Town/Santa Fe Depot)Local commuter trips within San Diego County
Amtrak Long-Distance ConnectionsAmtrakSouthwest Chief, Coast Starlight, Sunset Limited (via connecting Thruway/transfer)Cross-country travelers connecting through LA or San Diego
  • Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: The Pacific Surfliner is the workhorse route for anyone heading to Solana Beach from Los Angeles, Orange County, Santa Barbara, or San Diego. It runs multiple daily round trips along the coast, and Solana Beach is one of its regular stops.
  • COASTER Commuter Rail: If you’re already in San Diego County – say, in Oceanside, Carlsbad, or downtown San Diego – the COASTER is often the cheapest and most convenient way to reach Solana Beach. It runs on weekdays with a limited weekend schedule and is designed primarily for local commuters.
  • Long-Distance Amtrak Routes: Although Solana Beach has no direct Amtrak service, passengers can connect through LA Union Station and take the Sunset Limited, the Southwest Chief, or the Coast Starlight, all of which run through LA, and then take the Pacific Surfliner.
  • The Sunset Limited passes through desert landscapes of the Gulf Coast and connects with the other two trains in LA. Likewise, the Southwest Chief, which also passes through desert landscapes, connects with the other two trains in LA. It offers scenic mountain passes in New Mexico and desert landscapes in Arizona. The Coast Starlight, meanwhile, passes through the West Coast and Oregon and has scenic views of the Pacific Northwest’s forests and Mount Shasta. Since LA’s Union Station is the hub for passengers traveling to San Diego and Solana Beach afterward, travelers can take the Pacific Surfliner, which has frequent trips throughout the day, so after taking a long-distance train, travelers won’t have to wait for a long time to take the Surfliner.
  • Amtrak Thruway Bus Connections: For passengers from places not on our rail services, such as Bakersfield, Las Vegas, or parts of Arizona, Amtrak connects Thruway Motorcoach to the Pacific Surfliner trains at our Los Angeles, Oceanside, and San Diego stations. Reservations for these buses can be made on our website like the trains. Unlike other forms of bus transport, these are booked as part of the same trip as the train, so you don’t need to worry about buying another bus ticket. 

Popular Train Routes to Solana Beach From Major US Cities

Here’s a quick look at how travelers from various major US cities typically reach Solana Beach by rail, including approximate total travel times.

From CityRoute TypeApprox. Total Travel TimeTransfers Needed
Los Angeles, CADirect Pacific Surfliner~2h 15m – 2h 40mNone
San Diego, CADirect Pacific Surfliner or COASTER~30-45 minNone
Santa Barbara, CAPacific Surfliner~4.5-5 hoursNone (through train)
San Luis Obispo, CAPacific Surfliner~7-8 hoursNone (through train)
Sacramento, CAAmtrak + Pacific Surfliner~10-12 hours1 (Los Angeles)
Chicago, ILSouthwest Chief + Pacific Surfliner~2.5 days1 (Los Angeles)
Seattle, WACoast Starlight + Pacific Surfliner~2 days1 (Los Angeles)
New York, NYMultiple Amtrak routes + Pacific Surfliner~3-4 days2-3 (varies by route)
Phoenix, AZAmtrak Thruway Bus + Pacific Surfliner~9-10 hours1 (Los Angeles)
  • For those on the West Coast, getting to Solana Beach by train is more often than not quick and direct. Passengers traveling from out of state usually need to connect through L.A. Union Station. This is because every long-distance route on Amtrak and the Pacific Surfliner meets here.
  • Long travel days can be dependent on the individual route selected and the day of travel. Pacific Surfliners on the weekend run at a slower schedule due to high demand. It is a good idea to check Pacific Surfliner’s departures, as they run every hour or so. This is a good option for people connecting long-distance who arrive later in L.A. Travelers coming from the Bay Area and Sacramento can also consider Amtrak San Joaquins or Capitol Corridor, combined with a connection in L.A. or Bakersfield depending on which has the shorter travel time.

NYC to Solana Beach Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips

There is no direct train from New York to Solana Beach. Unfortunately, the US does not have a coast-to-coast passenger rail line. However, if you are an enthusiast of long-distance rail travel, you can take many trains and have a multi-day journey to reach your destination. 

How the Route Typically Works

  • New York (Penn Station) to Chicago: Take the Lake Shore Limited, an overnight train that typically takes around 19-20 hours.
  • Chicago to Los Angeles: Connect onto the Southwest Chief, a scenic long-distance train that takes roughly 43 hours and crosses eight states.
  • Los Angeles to Solana Beach: Finish the journey on the Pacific Surfliner, which takes about 2 hours and 15-40 minutes.

LegTrainApprox. Duration
New York → ChicagoLake Shore Limited~19-20 hours
Chicago → Los AngelesSouthwest Chief~43 hours
Los Angeles → Solana BeachPacific Surfliner~2h 15m-2h 40m
Total (approx.)~3 to 4 days, including layover time in Chicago and LA

Ticket Tips for the NYC-Solana Beach Journey

  • Book each leg separately or as a connected itinerary through Amtrak.com – the system can often combine long-distance and regional legs into one reservation.
  • Reserve sleeper accommodations early for the Chicago-LA leg if you want privacy and a bed; roomettes sell out fast on the Southwest Chief, especially in summer.
  • Build in a buffer between long-distance arrival and your Pacific Surfliner departure from LA Union Station – a 1-2 hour cushion protects you if the long-distance train runs late, which happens fairly often on cross-country routes.
  • Consider flying + train instead: Many travelers fly into Los Angeles or San Diego and then take the Pacific Surfliner or COASTER for the final scenic leg to Solana Beach – this is far faster if your goal is simply to reach the beach rather than experience the full rail journey.
  • Check for rail passes: Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass can be cost-effective if you’re making multiple long-distance connections within a set number of days.
  • Pack for a multi-day trip: Since the New York to Solana Beach journey spans several days, bring a change of clothes, toiletries, entertainment, and snacks even if you plan to use the dining car – long-distance trains can occasionally run behind schedule, and being self-sufficient reduces stress.
  • Consider trip insurance: Given the number of connections involved, especially with the Chicago layover, travel insurance can offer peace of mind in case of missed connections due to weather or delays.
  • Explore Chicago during your layover: Many travelers use the several-hour gap between the Lake Shore Limited’s arrival and the Southwest Chief’s departure to grab a meal or take a short walk near Chicago Union Station – just be sure to track boarding times closely.

Note: It’s not for everyone, but for those who wish to go the distance, this rail route presents an opportunity for slow-travel fine dining and sightseeing across the plains and along the California coast. It starts in the Northeast corridor, then crosses the plains, through Raton Pass into New Mexico, and finally stretches along the California coast to Solana Beach. 

Solana Beach Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers

If this is your first time riding to Solana Beach by rail, a few practical tips will make the experience smoother.

  • Arrive 20-30 minutes early, especially in summer when the Del Mar Racetrack season boosts ridership and the station gets busier.
  • Check your platform Solana Beach Station has two side platforms, and trains in both directions can arrive close together, so confirm your direction (northbound vs. southbound) before boarding.
  • Bring a light jacket coastal Southern California can be breezy even on warm days, and train interiors run on the cooler side.
  • Pack light for beach days – the station is a short walk from downtown Solana Beach and the Cedros Design District, but it’s not directly on the sand, so plan for a 10-15 minute walk or a quick rideshare to Fletcher Cove Beach Park.
  • Download the Amtrak app or NCTD app for real-time departure boards, mobile tickets, and service alerts.
  • Validate COASTER tickets using a PRONTO card or app before boarding – COASTER doesn’t have onboard ticket sales the way Amtrak does.
  • Watch for schedule changes construction near Del Mar has periodically affected service on parts of the corridor, so it’s worth checking Amtrak or NCTD alerts shortly before travel.
  • Bikes and surfboards are welcome on the Pacific Surfliner, with dedicated storage racks – a nice perk if you’re heading straight to the beach.
  • Keep a photo ID handy while not always checked, conductors occasionally ask for identification matching your reservation, especially on discounted fare types.
  • Use the restroom before a short trip if needed cars have accessible restrooms, but during peak boarding times near Solana Beach, lines can form quickly.
  • Reserve a seat near the ocean-facing side if scenery is your priority on the segment north of Solana Beach toward Del Mar and San Clemente, the western-facing windows offer the best coastal views.
  • Set a phone alarm or use the app’s station alert feature so you don’t miss your stop, especially if you’re dozing off on a longer ride from Los Angeles or beyond.
  • Know your baggage limits Amtrak allows a reasonable number of carry-on bags per passenger, and checked baggage service is available at select larger stations, though not typically at Solana Beach itself.

Note: First-time riders often find that the biggest adjustment isn’t the train itself but simply getting used to reading station boards and platform signage. Solana Beach Station’s layout is simple, with clear signage directing passengers to the correct platform for northbound or southbound trains, and staff at the ticket counter are generally happy to help if you’re unsure.

Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Solana Beach

Understanding whether your trip is direct or requires a connection helps you plan timing and avoid missed transfers.

Direct Routes 

  • Los Angeles Union Station → Solana Beach (Pacific Surfliner)
  • San Diego (Santa Fe Depot / Old Town) → Solana Beach (Pacific Surfliner or COASTER)
  • Santa Barbara → Solana Beach (Pacific Surfliner, through train)
  • Oceanside → Solana Beach (COASTER)
  • Anaheim / Santa Ana / Irvine → Solana Beach (Pacific Surfliner)

Connecting Routes 

OriginConnection PointFinal Leg to Solana Beach
SacramentoLos AngelesPacific Surfliner
SeattleLos AngelesPacific Surfliner
ChicagoLos AngelesPacific Surfliner
New OrleansLos AngelesPacific Surfliner
PhoenixLos Angeles (via Thruway bus)Pacific Surfliner

Note: Most connecting itineraries funnel through Los Angeles Union Station, which functions as the main gateway between Amtrak’s national network and the coastal Pacific Surfliner line down to San Diego County.

Business Class vs Coach on Solana Beach Trains

The Pacific Surfliner offers two seating tiers, and choosing the right one depends on your budget and how much comfort matters for your trip.

FeatureCoach ClassBusiness Class
Seat width & legroomStandard, comfortableWider seats, extra legroom
PriceLower base fare+$10-35 more than coach, depending on distance
Complimentary snack/drinkNot includedIncluded
Priority boardingNoYes (in San Diego)
Wi-FiFreeFree
Power outletsYesYes
Guest Rewards pointsStandardBonus points
Best forShort trips, budget travelersLonger trips, extra comfort, business travelers

Note: Coach seating is fine for even longer trips like the one from Los Angeles to Solana Beach, which is around 2.5 hours of travel time. Business Class is more comfortable for longer trips like from Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo, for the added legroom and snack. 

Solana Beach Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Solana Beach-Encinitas Station

Solana Beach Station, also known as the Solana Beach Transit Center, is the main rail gateway to the city. Here are the essentials:

DetailInformation
Station NameSolana Beach Station (Solana Beach Transit Center)
Amtrak Station CodeSOL
Address105 North Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach, CA
Owned byNorth County Transit District (NCTD)
ServicesAmtrak Pacific Surfliner, COASTER commuter rail
Platforms2 side platforms
ParkingAvailable on-site
Bicycle facilitiesYes
AccessibilityFully accessible
Ticket officeStaffed, with ticket counter and self-service Quik-Trak machines
Nearby attractionsCedros Design District, Fletcher Cove Beach Park, Del Mar Racetrack (via shuttle)

A Bit of Station History

  • The station opened in February 1995, replacing the older Del Mar depot located about two miles south, which had served rail passengers since the early 1900s. The tracks through Solana Beach were later lowered into a trench during the late 1990s to reduce congestion at street crossings like Lomas Santa Fe Road.

Getting Around From the Station

  • The Cedros Design District contains a variety of art galleries, boutiques, and craft breweries and is directly across from the train station. As a result, the Design District is an easy starting point. It is a short walk or quick ride-share to the beach, and during the racing season,n a free shuttle is available to the Del Mar Racetrack.
  • The station was built to accommodate the lowered railway running through Solana Beach. The station was built in a stylish Post-Modern style and includes a central steel frame. The design also lowered the level of the crossing and improved the safety of the street crossing for pedestrians. The sounds of the railway were also reduced.
  • The station is served by the BREEZE NCTD bus routes 101 and 308, which connect you to other cities and communities like Rancho Santa Fe or Escondido without the need for a car. There are also many rideshare options, and a number of bike-sharing rental services close to the station where you can get to the coastal bike path and North County region.

Next Stop From Solana Beach

Depending on your direction of travel, the next station stop is:

  • Northbound: Encinitas Station
  • Southbound: Old Town San Diego Transit Center (toward Santa Fe Depot, San Diego)

How to Book Train Tickets to Solana Beach: Step-by-Step Guide

Booking your ticket to Solana Beach is straightforward whether you’re using Amtrak or the local COASTER service.

Booking Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Tickets

  1. Visit Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak app.
  2. Enter your origin station and “Solana Beach, CA (SOL)” as your destination.
  3. Select your travel date and preferred departure time from the list of available trains.
  4. Choose your fare type – Saver, Value, or Flexible – based on how much flexibility you need.
  5. Select Coach or Business Class seating.
  6. Add any extras, such as bikes or additional baggage, if needed.
  7. Enter passenger details and payment information.
  8. Download your mobile ticket or opt for a printed ticket at the station kiosk.
  9. Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to validate your ticket and find your platform.

Booking COASTER Tickets

  1. Download the PRONTO app or purchase a PRONTO card.
  2. Load value or a day pass onto your card/app.
  3. Tap to validate at the platform validator before boarding – there are no onboard ticket sales.
  4. Keep your ticket or app confirmation in case of a fare check during your ride.

Booking Tips

  • Book 14-30 days in advance for the best Pacific Surfliner fares.
  • Fares often rise closer to the travel date, especially on weekends and during summer.
  • Group and student discounts are available on select fare types.
  • COASTER Regional Day Passes and Monthly Passes can also be used on Pacific Surfliner trains within San Diego County under the Rail 2 Rail program, offering flexibility if your plans change.
  • If you booked through a third-party site, always double-check that your confirmation email includes a valid Amtrak reservation number – this is what conductors will scan or verify onboard.
  • For group travel, calling Amtrak’s group desk directly can sometimes unlock better rates than booking each ticket separately online.
  • Keep an eye on Amtrak’s “Offers” or “Deals” page, which periodically features flash sales, companion fares, or seasonal discounts specific to the Pacific Surfliner corridor.
  • If your travel dates are flexible, comparing prices across a few adjacent days using Amtrak’s calendar view can reveal significant savings, since weekday fares are often noticeably cheaper than weekend fares.

Solana Beach Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money

Ticket prices to Solana Beach vary significantly depending on your origin, how far in advance you book, and which class of service you choose.

RouteApprox. One-Way Price RangeApprox. Duration
Los Angeles → Solana Beach$14 – $602h 15m – 2h 40m
San Diego → Solana Beach$8 – $2030-45 min
Santa Barbara → Solana Beach$35 – $75~4.5-5 hours
San Luis Obispo → Solana Beach$45 – $95~7-8 hours
Business Class upgrade (any route)+$10 – $35Same as coach

Ways to Save Money on Your Solana Beach Train Ticket

  • Book early: Saver fares are the cheapest but come with change restrictions; booking 2-4 weeks ahead usually secures the lowest prices.
  • Travel midweek: Tuesday through Thursday trips are typically cheaper than weekend departures.
  • Use a COASTER pass for short San Diego County trips: If you’re already in Oceanside, Encinitas, or San Diego, COASTER fares are often cheaper than Amtrak for the same short distance.
  • Look for California resident and student discounts: Amtrak periodically offers regional promotions for California residents and verified students.
  • Sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards: Points can be redeemed for future travel, and members sometimes get access to flash sales.
  • Avoid peak racing season if budget is a priority: Fares and ridership spike during Del Mar Racetrack’s summer meet (roughly July through September).
  • Compare Value vs. Saver fares: If your plans might change, a slightly pricier Value fare with free changes can save money overall compared to paying change fees on a Saver fare.
  • Travel off-peak hours: Early morning or late evening departures are sometimes priced lower than midday trains, particularly on the busiest weekend schedules.
  • Bundle with a hotel or activity package: Amtrak Vacations and some regional tourism boards occasionally offer bundled train-plus-stay packages that work out cheaper than booking everything separately.
  • Check military and senior discounts: Amtrak offers reduced fares for active military members, veterans, and seniors aged 65 and older – worth checking if you or a travel companion qualifies.
  • Consider a monthly COASTER pass for repeat trips: If you plan to travel to or from Solana Beach multiple times in a month, a COASTER Monthly Pass can work out significantly cheaper than buying individual one-way tickets, and it doubles as a valid fare on Pacific Surfliner trains within the same zone under the Rail 2 Rail program.

Note: Combining a few of these strategies – booking early, traveling midweek, and choosing the right fare type – can often cut your total ticket cost by 30% or more compared to a last-minute weekend booking.

Best Time to Visit Solana Beach by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips

SeasonWhat to ExpectTrain Travel Tips
Spring (Mar-May)Mild weather, fewer crowds, wildflowers along the coastGreat time for lower fares and quieter trains
Summer (Jun-Sep)Peak beach season, Del Mar Racetrack meet, warm weatherBook well in advance; expect higher fares and busier stations
Fall (Oct-Nov)Warm ocean temps, fewer tourists, “second summer” feelExcellent value season with pleasant weather
Winter (Dec-Feb)Cooler, occasional rain, whale watching season offshoreCheapest fares of the year; watch for storm-related schedule changes

Best overall time to visit: Late spring (May) or early fall (September-October) tend to offer the sweet spot of good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable train fares. If you specifically want the Del Mar Racetrack experience, plan around the summer meet – just book your train tickets early since demand spikes significantly.

Train vs Bus vs Car to Solana Beach: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?

FactorTrainBusCar
ComfortHigh – spacious seats, Wi-Fi, café carModerateDepends on traffic and driver fatigue
Scenic valueExcellent, especially coastal segmentsLimitedGood, but requires focus on driving
Cost (LA to Solana Beach)~$14-60~$15-35Gas + parking, often $30-60+
Travel time (LA to Solana Beach)~2h 15m-2h 40m~3-4 hours (traffic-dependent)~2-3.5 hours (traffic-dependent)
Parking hassleNoneNoneSignificant, especially near the beach
FlexibilityFixed schedule, multiple daily departuresFixed schedule, fewer departuresFull flexibility
Environmental impactLowLow-moderateHighest per passenger (solo driving)
Bike/surfboard friendlyYes, dedicated storageLimitedYes, full control

Quick Verdict

  • Choose the train if you want a relaxing, scenic, parking-free trip with good value – especially from Los Angeles, Orange County, or within San Diego County.
  • Choose the bus if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a longer, less scenic ride.
  • Choose a car if you need full flexibility, plan to explore multiple towns along the coast, or are traveling with a lot of gear or a large group where splitting the cost makes driving cheaper.

Note: For most solo travelers, couples, or small groups heading straight to Solana Beach for a beach day or weekend getaway, the train strikes the best overall balance of cost, comfort, and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a direct train to Solana Beach from Los Angeles?

Yes. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner runs multiple direct daily trains between Los Angeles Union Station and Solana Beach, with no transfers required. The trip takes approximately 2 hours and 15 to 40 minutes.

2. What is the name of the train station in Solana Beach?

The station is called Solana Beach Station, also known as the Solana Beach Transit Center, with the Amtrak station code SOL. It’s located at 105 North Cedros Avenue.

3. How much does a train ticket to Solana Beach cost? 

Prices vary by origin and how early you book. One-way fares from Los Angeles typically range from about $14 to $60, while trips from San Diego can be as low as $8 to $20 on COASTER or Pacific Surfliner.

4. Can I take a train from New York to Solana Beach? 

There’s no single direct train, but you can travel entirely by rail by connecting through Chicago and Los Angeles using the Lake Shore Limited, Southwest Chief, and Pacific Surfliner. The full journey typically takes 3 to 4 days.

5. What’s the difference between COASTER and Pacific Surfliner? 

COASTER is a local commuter rail service operating between Oceanside and San Diego, aimed at short regional trips. The Pacific Surfliner is a longer-distance Amtrak service covering San Diego to San Luis Obispo, offering reserved seating, café cars, and Business Class options.

6. Is Business Class worth it on the Pacific Surfliner? 

For shorter trips, coach is generally sufficient. For longer segments (over 3 hours), Business Class’s extra legroom, complimentary snack, and priority boarding can be worth the additional $10-35 fee.

7. How far is Solana Beach Station from the beach? 

The station is about a 10-15 minute walk from Fletcher Cove Beach Park and sits directly across from the Cedros Design District, making it easy to reach dining, shopping, and the coastline without a car.

8. Can I bring a surfboard or bike on the train? 

Yes. The Pacific Surfliner offers dedicated storage racks for surfboards and bicycles, making it a popular choice for beachgoers and cyclists heading to Solana Beach.

9. What is the best time of year to visit Solana Beach by train? 

Late spring (May) and early fall (September-October) offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower fares. Summer is popular but busier and pricier due to the Del Mar Racetrack season.

10. How do I get from Solana Beach Station to nearby cities like Encinitas or San Diego? 

From Solana Beach, the next stop northbound is Encinitas Station, and southbound trains head toward Old Town San Diego Transit Center and Santa Fe Depot. Both COASTER and Pacific Surfliner serve these connections multiple times daily.