Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner’s are rightly renowned for their view of the Pacific Ocean as they skirt the coast from San Clemente to Del Mar. But as Surfliner 785 runs along the Los Angeles River’s west bank, the view is much grittier. In moments, train 785 will arrive in Los Angeles’ Union Station and, after a suitable break, continue its journey to Goleta, near Santa Barbara, and more spectacular views of the Pacific. Well, not on this evening’s train as much, as if the passenger are lucky, they might catch a nice view of the sun dropping “into” the ocean before darkness falls. Twenty-year-old Alstom-built cab/baggage/coach 6908 (named Point Estero) is leading this six-car train now, but as it departs LA CDTX SC-44 2116 will be on the point. (Los Angeles, California – July 6, 2021)
Stretching from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, the Surf Line has become Amtrak's second busiest route. See the Pacific Surfliner and San Diegan in action along with trains from predecessors Santa Fe and Southern Pacific.