San Diego, CA, January 14, 2026
Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner will enhance its services with a 13th daily round trip between Los Angeles and San Diego starting January 26, 2026. This expansion, supported by a $27.1 million federal grant, aims to increase flexibility for travelers and boost local economic activity in Southern California. To celebrate, passengers can enjoy a 20% discount on tickets for select dates. The expansion emphasizes the importance of public transport in connecting communities and revitalizing the regional rail network.
San Diego, CA
Amtrak Expands Pacific Surfliner Service with 13th Round Trip
Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner will resume pre-pandemic service levels on January 26, 2026, by adding a 13th daily round trip between Los Angeles and San Diego.
This expansion, announced by the Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency, promises travelers enhanced flexibility and convenience while navigating the scenic Southern California coast. With this new round trip, an early start from San Diego at 7:01 a.m. will see passengers arriving at Los Angeles Union Station at 9:57 a.m., and a return trip from Los Angeles at 7:10 p.m., arriving back in San Diego at 10:07 p.m.
The boost in service is backed by significant federal funding, marking a positive step toward restoring the regional rail network. A $27.1 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program underpins this extension, which aims to benefit local commuters, weekend travelers, and tourists alike.
Significance of the Service Expansion
As the Southern California economy continues to rebound from the pandemic, the need for effective transportation options becomes increasingly vital. An expansion in the Pacific Surfliner service is a reflection of the resilience of local infrastructure and the commitment of authorities to support both business growth and community mobility.
More specifically, many small businesses in San Diego are expected to benefit from increased passenger traffic, enhancing local economic activity. With more train options available, both residents and visitors will likely travel to various business districts and cultural hotspots, providing a boost to local entrepreneurs eager to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Discount Offer for Travelers
To celebrate the expanded service, the Pacific Surfliner is enticing new and returning riders with a 20% discount on tickets for travels between January 26 and March 13, 2026. Passengers can utilize the code V526 when booking online to take advantage of this offer. Such promotions not only encourage ridership but reaffirm the importance of public transport in connecting communities.
Route Coverage and Frequency
The Pacific Surfliner operates over a substantial 351-mile route, serving a total of 29 stations that extend from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. With the restoration of these services, travelers will see 13 daily round trips exclusively between Los Angeles and San Diego. In addition, there will be five daily round trips connecting San Diego and Goleta, along with two full-corridor round trips covering the entire length of the line. This expanded schedule provides ample options for both leisure and business travelers.
Key Features of the Pacific Surfliner Service Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Additional Round Trip | 13th daily round trip between Los Angeles and San Diego |
| Departure Times | 7:01 a.m. from San Diego; 7:10 p.m. from Los Angeles |
| Funding | $27.1 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program |
| Discount Offer | 20% off rides between January 26 and March 13, 2026, with code V526 |
| Route Coverage | 351 miles, serving 29 stations from San Diego to San Luis Obispo |
| Service Frequency | 13 daily round trips between Los Angeles and San Diego; 5 daily round trips between San Diego and Goleta; 2 full-corridor daily round trips between San Diego and San Luis Obispo |
Conclusion
As San Diego gears up for this expansion in train service, the implications for local businesses and community connectivity are substantial. With a stronger transportation infrastructure, both the economy and local entrepreneurship stand to benefit. The Pacific Surfliner’s renewed commitment to service is a pivotal step forward in revitalizing travel along the Southern California coast. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to support local businesses by taking advantage of the new service and discounts offered as we collectively embrace a post-pandemic recovery.
When will the 13th daily round trip on the Pacific Surfliner begin?
The 13th daily round trip will begin on January 26, 2026.
What are the departure times for the new round trip?
The new round trip includes a 7:01 a.m. departure from San Diego, arriving at Los Angeles Union Station at 9:57 a.m., and a 7:10 p.m. departure from Los Angeles, arriving in San Diego at 10:07 p.m.
How is the additional service funded?
The additional service is funded by a $27.1 million grant from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program.
Is there a discount available for passengers?
Yes, Pacific Surfliner is offering a 20% discount on rides between January 26 and March 13, 2026. Passengers can use the code V526 when booking online to take advantage of this offer.
What is the Pacific Surfliner route coverage?
The Pacific Surfliner route spans 351 miles, serving 29 stations from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.
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