Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA train with Amtrak

Mon, Jun 22
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$31

Average price

$31

Fastest journey

2 h 42 m

Average duration

2 h 42 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

102 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Berkeley, CA for Santa Cruz, CA on Mon, Jun 22, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 102 km distance in an average of 2 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .

On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak
    3:17 PM2h42
    Berkeley, CA
    5:59 PMSanta Cruz, CA
    $311One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $30, and a bus costs an average of $48.

Distance: 63 miles (102 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$48

Average price

$16

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 2m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 53m

Average total duration

3h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 28m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is a train with an average price of $31 (€25).

This is compared to other travel options from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA:

A train is $17 (€14) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA costing on average $48 (€39).

The fastest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 32m.

Other travel options to Santa Cruz, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Berkeley, CA and Santa Cruz, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $31 (€25) compared to roughly $16 (€13) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.43 (€-12.63). The journey takes 2h 32m versus 1h 28m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Compare prices and tickets Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€25) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 20:29. The fastest train covers the 63 miles (102 km) distance in 2h 42m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
63 miles (102 km)
Average train duration
2h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$30 (€25)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 42m
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
8:29 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Train companies: Amtrak from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Berkeley, CA and Santa Cruz, CA from $30 (€25). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
Amtrak frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santa Cruz, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€25), while the average price is around $31 (€25).
The train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA takes 2h 42m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The distance by train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is 63 miles (102 km).
The last train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 8:29 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is by train, with a cost of around $30 (€25).
The train journey from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is not directly possible as there is no direct train route between these two cities. However, for parts of the trip, such as the segment from Berkeley to San Jose, travelers can enjoy views of the East Bay and South Bay areas. To complete the journey to Santa Cruz, travelers will need to use a combination of train and bus services.
A day trip from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is not feasible with a journey time of 2h 42m. The distance is 63 miles (102 km), and the frequency is 6 trips per day for trains.
For a fulfilling visit to Santa Cruz, CA, plan to spend at least 2 to 3 days. This allows enough time to explore the beaches, visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and enjoy nearby attractions like the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Yes, you can take the train from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
Since neither Berkeley, CA nor Santa Cruz, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Santa Cruz, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the beach and downtown. Car break-ins and bike thefts are common, so it's important to secure belongings and vehicles. Additionally, some travelers report scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying aware of surroundings and using reputable transportation services can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Most Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trains use the Berkeley Station to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center station pair. Use this guide to compare Berkeley, CA and Santa Cruz, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Berkeley
Arrival train stations in Santa Cruz

Which Berkeley, CA station do trains to Santa Cruz, CA leave from?

Trains from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leave from Berkeley Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Berkeley, CA city centre at 700 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA.
Berkeley Station700 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710, USA+1 800-872-7245ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Berkeley Station from Berkeley city centre

Berkeley Station is 2 km from Berkeley city centre. Check local transport options before travel.

Berkeley Station train station facilities and services

Berkeley Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Berkeley Station.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Berkeley Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Berkeley Station: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Berkeley Station: Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Berkeley Station.

More options for your journey from Berkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Santa Cruz, CABerkeley, CA to Santa Cruz, CA train

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