COASTER Holiday Express Returns in December with New Night Train

Cruising down the coastline, North County Transit District’s COASTER Holiday Express gives children the opportunity to take an hour-long train ride to sing songs, hear stories and receive wish-lists from Santa Claus to fill out and return.

The 2024 schedule offers departures on Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15 and includes a new night train on Dec. 14. The trains leave the Oceanside Transit Center and travel down to the Solana Beach Station and back without stops. Here is the full schedule:

• Dec. 7, 8 and 15 — 10:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m.
• Dec. 14 — 10:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 5:15 p.m.

The San Diego County community has wanted more opportunities to travel on the Holiday Express, according to Mary Dover, NCTD’s spokesperson, so the agency decided to add the night train option.

“The kids that attend are super excited to get in the holiday spirit,” Dover said. “It allows them to connect with our services and understand what it’s like to take the train.”

Tickets are $20 per person and children 2 years old and younger are free.

Parking is free at the transit center. Follow the signs to Platform 1, where you’ll find the line that corresponds with the car section number on your ticket. Boarding begins 20 minutes before departure.

Strollers, car seats, bikes, food and drinks are not allowed on board.

Tickets go on sale Nov. 14. To purchase, visit gonctd.com/HolidayExpress.