Train or Car rental?

Question

Later this month, Sun eve arrival - Thurs morning, I will be visiting San Diego with my 32 yr old daughter. Both CA 1st timers. Understand that renting a car is needed as we explore Balboa Park, Torrey Pines, etc. Staying at Springhill Suites, Bayfront. Thursday we leave for Los Angeles. I assumed that we would keep the car rental to drive the coast (as much as possible) to LA, stopping once to wander Laguna (or elsewhere?).

However, having realized that taking the train from SD to LA is an option and that coastal views are part of the ride, I'm wondering if I should turn the car in before leaving SD. While comfortable driving in Boston, it's a whole different story in unfamiliar territory, especially when our eyes want to look at the scenery instead of watching for signs and traffic on what might be twisty roads! Also,

driving in LA doesn't sound like much fun at all! I would love to get your thoughts on these two options!

If it matters, in LA we are meeting my 34 year old son who is flying in Thursday afternoon. We'll attend a concert at The Novo in the LA LIve area that night. Maybe I should also post this query on the LA forum to get input about need for the car in LA, but I'll also note here that we may do a Santa Monica - Venice bike ride Friday & possibly visit the Observatory. (The film studios & sidewalk "stars" not a priority). I'm thinking we could Uber (or possibly use public transport) Sat, then Uber to the airport to head home Saturday.

Thank you in advance for any comments you might care to make about our transportation choices (&/or of course, anything else!)

Answer

For a trip like yours, balancing convenience, scenery, and avoiding stressful driving is key. Both options—keeping the rental car or taking the train—have pros and cons, especially considering your comfort level with unfamiliar roads and city driving.

Option 1: Keep the Rental Car

Pros:

Full flexibility to stop along the coast. You could explore Laguna Beach, Dana Point, or even smaller coastal towns at your own pace without worrying about train schedules.
Ability to carry luggage and any shopping without restrictions.
Ease of reaching places like Torrey Pines, La Jolla, and Balboa Park during your stay in San Diego, which may require more than just a single Uber or public transport trips.

Cons:

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway to LA involves winding roads and requires attention—less opportunity to fully enjoy the scenery as a passenger.
Entering LA traffic can be stressful, especially around downtown or areas near LA Live. Parking is expensive and limited.

Option 2: Return the Car and Take the Train (Pacific Surfliner)

Pros:

Relaxing and scenic ride along the coast, especially if you choose a window seat on the right side of the train.
No stress with unfamiliar roads or LA traffic. You can enjoy the ride, read, or nap.
Environmentally friendly and cost-effective compared to tolls, gas, and parking fees in LA.

Cons:

Train schedules are fixed, so your timing is less flexible. You may need to plan carefully to allow for a leisurely stop in Laguna or another town.
Once in LA, you will rely on rideshares, public transport, or walking to get to your hotel, concert, and planned activities, which can add up in cost and time.

Additional Thoughts for LA Days

Since you are meeting your son on Thursday afternoon, taking the train could make arrival in LA less stressful and more predictable than driving yourself.
For Friday’s Santa Monica – Venice bike ride and Observatory visit, rideshares or short-term scooter/bike rentals are feasible and convenient.
Saturday, using Uber to get to the airport is simple and avoids city driving and parking hassles, especially if you plan to return your rental car in LA rather than driving back to SD.

Recommendation

Given that you are not particularly comfortable with long scenic drives and city traffic, taking the train from San Diego to LA is a stress-free and enjoyable way to experience the coast. Keep the rental car for your San Diego stay to reach attractions like Torrey Pines and Balboa Park. In LA, rely on rideshares and bike rentals for local activities, which eliminates parking and traffic headaches while still allowing you to enjoy Santa Monica, Venice, and Griffith Observatory.

Train or Car rental?

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