Hi everyone,
I'm spending part of a vacation in Los Angeles this year. I'm thinking taking a trip on the Pacific Surfliner might be a way to combine a train trip and some time at the beach.
So from what I can tell, if I want about a 1.5- 2.5 hour trip, there are a few choices where the station is a few blocks from the ocean:
Any recommendations? What are these towns like?
I probably won't go north of Santa Barbara as it will be too long of a day. Are there any Metrolink trains or other Pac Surfliner stops that I should also consider?
Thanks!
Knowing the southern California area quite well, and having been aboard the Surfliner many times, I would definitely recommend Solana Beach. The modest but modern station there is a couple of blocks from a prominent beach, but also along the historic Pacific Coast Highway (Hwy 101) on which there are some great, non-franchise restaurants, coffee shops, antique stores, etc.
Nonetheless, I admit that the Oceanside beach is probably wider, sandier, and more extensive than the beach at Solana Beach You will be up close to a considerable US Marine Corps presence in Oceanside, since Camp Pendleton is just north. If there, you could express your appreciation to Marines that you see, perhaps with a complimentary meal or just gratitude for their service to our country.
If you'd like to also see another great coastal view, take the Surfliner further south and go past Torrey Pines State Beach. Wind up and get off at the Old Town station of San Diego, then perhaps visit that early California settlement or go on downtown to the Gaslamp Quarter for nightlife.
Finally, I would definitely recommend getting a seat aboard the Business Class car on the Surfliner out of LA, instead of on the usual crowded coach cars. In Business Class ($13 upgrade cost from LA), you get a guaranteed seat, with complimentary newspapers, beverages, pastries, calm, and a pleasant experience.
You might add San Clemente to your list. However, only two southbound and two northbound Surfliners stop there daily. The southbound stops are early in the day and the northbound late. The advantage is that the stop is actually ON the beach right at the city pier. There is at least one good restaurant at the base of the pier. Across the street there is lodging (expansive) and some eateries. A walk into town will turn up more.
Jack
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