Published on January 15, 2026
Starting January 26, 2026, Amtrak will increase service along Southern California’s iconic Pacific Surfliner route with a new daily round-trip between Los Angeles and San Diego. This change, announced by the Los Angeles–San Diego–San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency, brings the total number of daily roundtrips between the two cities to 13, offering travelers more flexibility and shorter waiting times between trains.
This service expansion is set to boost tourism and make rail travel more accessible for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a commuter, a leisure traveler, or someone exploring Southern California, the enhanced schedule promises a smoother, more convenient ride between these two bustling cities.

A Boost to Southern California Tourism

The addition of a daily Pacific Surfliner roundtrip represents a strategic move to make travel along Southern California’s coastline even more accessible. Travelers will be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the California coast without the hassle of driving or parking, making it an excellent option for both residents and tourists alike.
Los Angeles and San Diego are two of the most visited cities in the United States, and the ability to travel between them with even greater frequency opens up a variety of tourism opportunities. Visitors can explore world-famous attractions such as Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, while also enjoying the beaches, historic sites, and vibrant food scene of San Diego, including Balboa Park, Old Town, and the Gaslamp Quarter.

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For tourists who want to experience both cities but are short on time, the enhanced rail service provides a quick, comfortable alternative to traveling by car. Instead of dealing with traffic on the I-5 freeway, passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route along the coast.

More Flexibility for Commuters

While tourists will certainly benefit from the added frequency, commuters between Los Angeles and San Diego will also appreciate the convenience of an additional daily roundtrip. The Pacific Surfliner offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these two major metropolitan areas, particularly for business travelers who want to avoid the stress of traffic.

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With 13 daily roundtrips now available, the Pacific Surfliner will provide greater flexibility for people who need to travel for work, whether it’s for meetings, conferences, or other business events. The train offers an array of onboard amenities, including Wi-Fi, food service, and comfortable seating, which makes the journey more productive and enjoyable compared to driving.
Additionally, the daily roundtrip will help alleviate overcrowding on peak hours, making the train service more reliable and consistent for daily commuters.

The Pacific Surfliner’s Scenic Route

One of the standout features of the Pacific Surfliner is its scenic route that runs along the California coast. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, the train ride offers breathtaking views of the ocean, beaches, and rugged coastline. Passengers can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, passing through towns like Oceanside, Carlsbad, and San Juan Capistrano.
The journey itself is part of the experience, with large windows offering unobstructed views of some of the most picturesque coastal landscapes in the country. For tourists, this scenic train ride provides an experience that’s just as exciting as the destination itself.

Increasing Accessibility and Comfort

The addition of a daily roundtrip also reflects Amtrak’s commitment to improving the travel experience and enhancing accessibility. The Pacific Surfliner has been consistently popular for its comfortable seating and the convenience of traveling without the stress of traffic. This new schedule expansion is expected to help accommodate a growing number of passengers who are seeking more eco-friendly and efficient travel options.
In addition, the service provides connections to other parts of California and beyond, making it easier for travelers to access other major destinations across the state. For example, passengers on the Pacific Surfliner can easily connect to Amtrak’s long-distance routes to places like Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and even San Francisco.

What to Expect from the New Service

The new Los Angeles–San Diego roundtrip will operate on a daily schedule, offering passengers more flexibility when planning their trips. The added convenience is expected to attract more local commuters, domestic tourists, and international visitors traveling between these two major cities.
In addition to its regular service, the Pacific Surfliner also offers special discounts and promotions for those booking early, making it an affordable option for families, solo travelers, and groups.
The extended service allows passengers to enjoy the comfort of the train while taking in the sights of California, whether traveling for business, leisure, or simply to visit friends and family. The amplified frequency aims to meet the rising demand for more sustainable and convenient travel options in Southern California.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Pacific Surfliner

The new daily roundtrip is just the beginning for Amtrak as it continues to expand and improve rail services across the United States. In addition to California’s Pacific Surfliner, Amtrak has been working on increasing service and connectivity on other popular routes across the country, as more travelers opt for rail over car travel.
With sustainability becoming an increasingly important factor in transportation choices, the Pacific Surfliner represents a greener and more efficient alternative to road travel, and the new schedule will help make this option even more appealing for travelers.

Conclusion: More Options for Exploring Southern California

The new daily round-trip on the Pacific Surfliner between Los Angeles and San Diego marks an exciting development for rail travel in California. This expansion will provide travelers with increased flexibility, improved travel options, and a more comfortable way to explore the beautiful coast of Southern California. Whether you’re a business traveler, tourist, or commuter, the Pacific Surfliner’s scenic route and convenient schedules make it an excellent choice for getting around the region.

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Tags: Amtrak 2026, amtrak california, amtrak pacific surfliner, California, Los Angeles

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