How's train traveling?

You would be surprised how cheap flights to SF can be. My brother lives in Oakland and sister in Moraga(even further east), but they often fly out of SF because the flights are a lot cheaper than Oakland or San Jose airports. They both recently flew down to SD, booking at the last minute, for $49 one-way. That's cheaper than 2 tanks of gas for your Jeep ;-) From SF, you can take their awesome BART system, although I'm not sure if it goes down to Palo Alto.

I have taken the "Coaster" from San Diego to Los Angeles on numerous occasions. It is inexpensive, comfortable, and stress free. It takes a little longer than driving, but the time can be spent online getting work done, or just relaxing. I always pay a little extra for Business Class. Well worth it in my book.

Another benefit over flying is that you do not have to get to the train station 90 minutes before the train leaves, and there is no long security line. Just be there 30 minutes before departure and you will have time to spare.

Saul

My family and I took the Amtrack Coaster from San Diego to Santa Barbara, it was nice but took most of the day.

The stretches from San Diego to Orange County and from Ventura to Santa Barbara were great. However, we had to go through LA and Union Station which took a lot of time with frequent stops.

I think there are routes that offer fewer stops. Riding the train is fun as long as you don't have young children.