surfliner

Question

just booked tix for next Saturday LA- SD and found out there is a bus section in the middle - is this much of a problem?

Answer

The Amtrak Surfliner route from Los Angeles to San Diego is generally a smooth and scenic trip along the Southern California coast. Some tickets include a “bus bridge” section in the middle, usually due to track maintenance or construction, where passengers are transferred to a bus for part of the journey.

Here’s what to expect and some tips:

The bus section is typically well-organized, and Amtrak coordinates the timing so that your connections on the train are seamless. You will board a coach bus and continue along the route until you can rejoin the train.
The bus ride can add some time to your overall trip, but it’s usually only an extra 20–40 minutes depending on the segment and traffic.
Comfort on the bus is generally decent—standard coach seats with some legroom—but it won’t be as spacious or smooth as the train. Expect normal bus bumps and occasional traffic delays.
Luggage handling is taken care of by Amtrak staff, so you don’t need to carry your bags onto the bus yourself, other than personal items.

Overall, the bus segment is not a major problem. It’s mostly a minor inconvenience, and the remainder of the train ride offers scenic views and comfortable seating. If your main goal is to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery, it’s still a pleasant trip. Bring a water bottle, some snacks, and perhaps a book or headphones for the bus segment, and it should be fine.

surfliner

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