Explore California Beaches via Amtrak Train Travel
- USA Rail Guides
- Jul 29
- 11 min read
California is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, and its beach towns offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and charming communities. Traveling by Amtrak provides an opportunity to explore these hidden gems while enjoying a scenic journey along the coastline.
Here we will highlight some of the most picturesque beach towns that are easily accessible by Amtrak, showcasing their unique attractions, outdoor activities, and the stunning coastal views that await you at each destination.
Of course the big cities like Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco all have their own amazing beaches, but this post is focused on the smaller beach towns with slower paced vibes. These towns are either directly served by Amtrak train or connecting bus, making them easy to reach and get around without a car.
Southern California Beach Towns
Solana Beach, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner
Tucked between Del Mar and Encinitas, Solana Beach is a stylish yet laid-back coastal town known for its pristine beaches, trendy shopping, and vibrant arts scene. With a relaxed, small-town feel and easy access to outdoor activities, Solana Beach is a perfect destination for a peaceful yet fun getaway. The Pacific Surfliner stops at Solana Beach Station, conveniently located near the town’s main attractions.
What to Do in Solana Beach
Relax at Fletcher Cove Beach Park, a scenic, family-friendly beach with golden sand, tide pools, and picturesque cliffs.
Explore the Cedros Design District, a unique shopping area filled with art galleries, home décor stores, and stylish boutiques.
Catch a show at the Belly Up Tavern, a legendary live music venue that hosts big-name and indie artists.
Walk the Coastal Rail Trail, a scenic pedestrian and bike path with beautiful ocean views.
Surf or swim at Seaside Beach, a favorite spot for locals with great waves and fewer crowds.
Visit the Annie’s Canyon Trail, a short but spectacular hike through sandstone slot canyons with breathtaking coastal views.
Enjoy oceanfront dining at Pillbox Tavern, a casual local favorite with great food and sunset views.
Explore the nearby San Elijo Lagoon, a peaceful nature reserve with walking trails and abundant wildlife.
Where to Stay in Solana Beach
Luxury: L'Auberge Del Mar (nearby) – A stunning beachfront resort offering luxury accommodations and spa services.
Midrange: Winners Circle Resort – A comfortable and well-located hotel near the beach and Cedros Design District. - Recommended
Budget: Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach – A budget-friendly option within walking distance of the beach and train station.
Oceanside, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner
With its iconic wooden pier, stunning beaches, and vibrant surf culture, Oceanside is a quintessential Southern California beach town. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Oceanside blends classic coastal charm with modern attractions, making it a great destination for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous day trip. The Pacific Surfliner stops at Oceanside Transit Center, offering easy access to the beach, harbor, and downtown.
What to Do in Oceanside
Stroll along Oceanside Pier, one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, with beautiful ocean views and a relaxed beach-town vibe.
Relax at Oceanside Beach, a wide, sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
Visit the California Surf Museum, showcasing the history and evolution of surfing, including Bethany Hamilton’s famous shark-bitten surfboard.
Explore Oceanside Harbor Village, a charming marina area with waterfront restaurants, boutique shops, and boat rentals.
Take a surf lesson, as Oceanside is one of the best beginner-friendly surf spots in Southern California.
Walk the Strand, a scenic, oceanfront pathway perfect for biking, jogging, or simply enjoying the sea breeze.
Tour Mission San Luis Rey, a historic Spanish mission with beautiful gardens and fascinating exhibits.
Enjoy the local food scene, from fresh seafood to craft breweries and trendy cafés.
Where to Stay in Oceanside
Luxury: The Seabird Resort – A stylish, oceanfront hotel with upscale amenities and stunning views.
Midrange: SpringHill Suites Oceanside – A modern, comfortable hotel just steps from the beach. - Recommended
Budget: The Fin Hotel – A charming, boutique-style budget option with a great location near downtown and the beach.
San Clemente, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner
Known as the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” San Clemente is a picturesque coastal town famous for its red-tiled roofs, scenic beaches, and laid-back Southern California vibe. With stunning oceanfront views, excellent surf spots, and a charming downtown, San Clemente is a hidden gem along the Pacific Surfliner route. The train stops at San Clemente Pier Station, one of the few Amtrak stations located directly on the beach, making it a perfect car-free getaway.
What to Do in San Clemente
Relax at San Clemente State Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Walk along San Clemente Pier, offering breathtaking ocean views, fresh seafood, and a classic Southern California atmosphere.
Explore Avenida Del Mar, the town’s vibrant main street lined with boutique shops, cafés, and local restaurants.
Visit Casa Romantica Cultural Center & Gardens, a historic Spanish-style estate with panoramic ocean views and cultural exhibits.
Hike the San Clemente Beach Trail, a scenic coastal pathway perfect for walking, jogging, or biking along the shore.
Catch waves at Trestles Beach, one of California’s most famous surf spots, attracting surfers from around the world.
Tour the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center, a museum celebrating the history and impact of surfing.
Enjoy fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Restaurant on the pier, a local favorite with unbeatable oceanfront dining.
Where to Stay in San Clemente
Luxury: The Volare, an Ascend Hotel – A stylish, Spanish-inspired hotel with ocean views and easy access to downtown.
Midrange: Casa Tropicana – A charming boutique hotel just steps from the beach and pier. - Recommended
Budget: The Patriots Boutique Motel – A budget-friendly, retro-style motel within walking distance of the beach.
Ventura, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner & Coast Starlight
Located along California’s stunning Central Coast, Ventura is a laid-back beach town known for its surf culture, historic downtown, and easy access to the Channel Islands. With a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, local charm, and oceanfront beauty, Ventura is an excellent stop for travelers looking to experience California’s coastal lifestyle. The Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight both stop at Ventura Station, making it an easy and scenic train ride from Los Angeles or Santa Barbara.
What to Do in Ventura
Relax at Ventura Beach, a wide, sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and sunset strolls.
Explore Ventura Pier, one of California’s oldest wooden piers, offering stunning ocean views and fresh seafood.
Wander through Downtown Ventura, home to historic buildings, unique shops, and a lively dining scene.
Visit the San Buenaventura Mission, an 18th-century Spanish mission with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
Take a day trip to Channel Islands National Park, where you can kayak through sea caves, hike scenic trails, and spot wildlife.
Hike to the Ventura Botanical Gardens, offering panoramic views of the coastline and diverse plant species.
Catch a show at the Majestic Ventura Theater, a historic venue featuring live music and performances.
Explore the Ventura Harbor Village, a charming waterfront area with restaurants, boat rentals, and artisan shops.
Where to Stay in Ventura
Luxury: Ventura Beach Marriott – A modern, comfortable resort near the beach with upscale amenities.
Midrange: Waypoint Ventura – A unique boutique hotel featuring vintage Airstream trailers and a retro-chic vibe. - Recommended
Budget: Amanzi Hotel – An affordable and well-rated option within walking distance of the beach and downtown.
Carpinteria, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner
Just south of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria is a charming coastal town known for its relaxed vibe, stunning beaches, and small-town appeal. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Carpinteria is a hidden gem offering a quieter, more laid-back alternative to Santa Barbara while still boasting incredible natural beauty.
What to Do in Carpinteria
Relax at Carpinteria State Beach, known for its gentle waves, tide pools, and some of the safest swimming waters in California.
Visit the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, where you can hike along oceanfront trails and spot seals at the harbor seal rookery.
Explore Linden Avenue, the town’s charming main street filled with boutique shops, cafés, and local eateries.
Tour the Carpinteria Valley Museum of History, a small but fascinating museum showcasing the town’s rich history.
Check out the famous "World’s Safest Beach", a nickname given to Carpinteria’s coastline due to its mild waves and lack of rip currents.
Go tide-pooling at Jellybowl Beach, a lesser-known spot with fascinating marine life at low tide.
Sip local brews at Island Brewing Company, a relaxed taproom with ocean views and craft beers brewed on-site.
Where to Stay in Carpinteria
Luxury: Rosewood Miramar Beach (in nearby Montecito) – A five-star beachfront resort with world-class dining and stunning ocean views.
Midrange: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria – Comfortable and centrally located with easy beach access. - Recommended
Budget: Motel 6 Carpinteria – A clean and affordable option just minutes from the beach.
Santa Barbara, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner & Coast Starlight
Santa Barbara, often referred to as the "American Riviera," is a coastal paradise known for its Mediterranean architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this picturesque town offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
If you are going to pick on destination from this list we suggest Santa Barbara. It’s the perfect mix of beach, walkable downtown, and easy accessibility to the train station. It’s also served by both the Coast Starlight and frequent Pacific Surfliner trains, making it easy to reach from San Francisco or Los Angeles.
What to Do in Santa Barbara
Relax at East Beach, known for its palm-lined shore and volleyball courts
Stroll along Stearns Wharf for ocean views and fresh seafood
Explore the Santa Barbara Mission, a historic landmark with stunning gardens
Visit the Funk Zone, a vibrant area with art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and boutique shops
Hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains for breathtaking panoramic views
Take a wine-tasting tour in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley
Where to Stay in Santa Barbara
Luxury: Rosewood Miramar Beach – A five-star beachfront resort with oceanfront bungalows
Midrange: Hotel Californian – Stylish, Spanish-influenced hotel steps from the Funk Zone - Recommended
Budget: Beachside Inn – Affordable, clean, and just steps from the waterfront
Pismo Beach & Grover Beach, California
Amtrak Route: Pacific Surfliner
Located along California’s Central Coast, Pismo Beach and Grover Beach offer a perfect blend of sandy shores, scenic coastal views, and laid-back charm. These neighboring towns are known for their classic beach town atmosphere, fresh seafood, and outdoor adventure opportunities. The Pacific Surfliner stops at the Grover Beach station, making it an easy and picturesque train trip from Los Angeles. If coming from the North on the Coast Starlight you will need to disembark in San Luis Obispo and connect to a bus to reach Pismo and Grover beaches.
What to Do in Pismo Beach & Grover Beach
Relax on Pismo State Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Explore the Pismo Beach Pier, an iconic landmark with panoramic ocean views, fishing spots, and nearby restaurants.
Visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies migrate each winter (November–February).
Take an ATV ride on the Oceano Dunes, one of the only places in California where you can drive on the beach.
Go wine tasting in Edna Valley, a nearby wine region known for its crisp Chardonnays and elegant Pinot Noirs.
Stroll through downtown Pismo Beach, filled with surf shops, seafood spots, and charming boutiques.
Kayak or explore the sea caves at Dinosaur Caves Park, a scenic coastal park with stunning cliffs and ocean views.
Where to Stay in Pismo Beach & Grover Beach
Luxury: Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa – A stunning oceanfront resort with spacious suites, fine dining, and a full-service spa.
Midrange: Inn at the Pier – A stylish, beachfront boutique hotel with a rooftop bar and ocean views. - Recommended
Budget: SeaVenture Beach Hotel – An affordable oceanfront option with cozy rooms and private balconies with hot tubs.
Northern California Beach Towns
Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Amtrak Route: Coast Starlight & Capitol Corridor (with bus connection)
Perched along California’s breathtaking central coast, Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea offer a perfect mix of rugged coastal beauty, rich history, and artistic charm. Monterey is known for its famous Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and stunning marine life, while Carmel boasts a fairytale-like village atmosphere, pristine beaches, and a vibrant arts scene. While Amtrak’s Coast Starlight and Capitol Corridor don't go directly to these destinations, travelers can take the train to San Jose or Salinas and connect via bus or rental car for a short and scenic ride to the coast.
What to Do in Monterey
Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the most renowned aquariums in the world, featuring sea otters, jellyfish, and an impressive kelp forest exhibit.
Stroll along Cannery Row, the historic waterfront district made famous by John Steinbeck, now filled with shops, restaurants, and ocean views.
Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, a lively area offering fresh seafood, whale-watching tours, and harbor views.
Drive or bike along 17-Mile Drive, one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world, passing by famous landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay.
Go kayaking in Monterey Bay, where you can paddle alongside sea otters, harbor seals, and even dolphins.
Walk the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, a beautiful path that runs along the waterfront, perfect for biking or strolling.
Visit the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, a charming small museum showcasing the region’s wildlife and history.
What to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Relax at Carmel Beach, a stunning white-sand beach framed by cypress trees, perfect for a peaceful coastal escape.
Wander through downtown Carmel, a charming, walkable village filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and European-inspired architecture.
Visit the Carmel Mission, one of California’s most beautiful and historic Spanish missions, founded in 1771.
Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a breathtaking coastal park with dramatic cliffs, hiking trails, and diverse marine life.
Tour the Fairytale Cottages, Carmel’s unique, whimsical homes that look like they belong in a storybook.
Sip local wines at a Carmel wine tasting room, featuring small-batch, cool-climate wines from nearby vineyards.
Take in a show at the Forest Theater, an enchanting outdoor theater offering performances under the stars.
Where to Stay in Monterey & Carmel
Luxury: L’Auberge Carmel – A five-star European-style hotel in the heart of Carmel, offering luxury and old-world charm.
Midrange: Spindrift Inn (Monterey) – A romantic oceanfront hotel on Cannery Row with cozy fireplaces and bay views. - Recommended
Budget: Pacific Grove Inn – A charming and affordable Victorian-style inn located between Monterey and Carmel.
Santa Cruz, California
Amtrak Route: Coast Starlight & Capitol Corridor (with bus connection)
Famous for its laid-back surf culture, classic boardwalk, and stunning redwood forests, Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city that perfectly blends adventure, history, and a free-spirited vibe. With its mix of sandy beaches, scenic hiking trails, and quirky downtown shops, Santa Cruz is a must-visit destination along California’s central coast. As with Monterye and Carmel, trains do not directly serve Santa Cruz, travelers can take the train to San Jose’s Diridon Station and connect via bus or rental car for a scenic ride over the Santa Cruz Mountains.
What to Do in Santa Cruz
Explore the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California’s oldest amusement park, featuring the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster and oceanfront arcade games.
Relax at Main Beach, a lively beach near the boardwalk, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and volleyball.
Walk along West Cliff Drive, a stunning coastal pathway with breathtaking ocean views and surfers catching waves below.
Visit Natural Bridges State Beach, a beautiful park known for its iconic rock formations and migrating monarch butterflies (in fall and winter).
Check out the Santa Cruz Wharf, a historic pier with seafood restaurants, shops, and a chance to spot sea lions.
Surf at Steamer Lane, one of California’s most famous surf breaks, or watch the pros from Lighthouse Point.
Hike or camp at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where you can walk among towering ancient redwoods just minutes from town.
Wander through Downtown Santa Cruz, a vibrant area filled with indie shops, street performers, and excellent cafés.
Visit the Mystery Spot, a quirky gravitational anomaly in the redwoods that has puzzled visitors for decades.
Go wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains, home to unique, high-elevation wineries producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Where to Stay in Santa Cruz
Luxury: Dream Inn – A stylish beachfront hotel with ocean-view rooms, located right on West Cliff Drive.
Midrange: Hotel Paradox – A trendy, boutique-style hotel offering modern amenities and a great location. - Recommended
Budget: Beach Street Inn and Suites – An affordable and highly rated option just steps from the boardwalk and beach.
