- Recommended
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Compact museum inside the lighthouse with exhibits on local surf culture, boards, and legends. An easy stop beside one of the city's best viewpoints.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA and enjoy the approximately 114 miles (185 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 18:55.
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 114 miles (185 km) |
First train 4:10 AM |
Last train 6:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Complete guide to Santa Cruz, CA
Things to do in Santa Cruz, CA
Discover the best of Santa Cruz, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Cruz, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Museum and research center focused on natural history and Monterey Bay ecology. Good for families, trails, and understanding local wildlife.
- Recommended
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
Downtown history museum covering Santa Cruz County through photographs, artifacts, and rotating exhibits in a restored library building.
- Must visit
West Cliff Drive
Iconic surfing viewpoint with a cliffside path, benches, and frequent wave action. One of the best places to watch surfers and sunsets.
- Must visit
Natural Bridges State Beach
Oceanfront natural bridge and tide-pool area known for coastal scenery and seasonal monarch butterflies. A scenic stop on the west side.
- Recommended
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Redwood grove in the city with easy trails, ponds, and picnic areas. Popular for a calm nature walk close to downtown and the beach.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
Cioppino is a tomato-based seafood stew tied to Northern California coast fishing, often made with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a regional Pacific delicacy, served cracked or in simple preparations that highlight the sweet meat of the Central California coast.
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos reflect Santa Cruz surf-town dining, usually featuring local fish, cabbage, salsa, and crema in tortillas near the beach or wharf.
John's Fish House
Casual harbor seafood spot known for very fresh fish, oysters, and cioppino with a relaxed working-waterfront feel.
Taqueria Vallarta
Beloved local Mexican restaurant known for fresh tortillas, tacos, and traditional plates in a lively, longstanding downtown setting.
Stagnaro Bros Seafood
Historic wharf restaurant serving seafood, steaks, and chowder with broad bay views and a classic Santa Cruz atmosphere.
United States Dollar ($)
Santa Cruz is pricier than many U.S. beach towns, with higher hotel rates, dining costs, and parking; transit is limited, so visitors often spend more on driving.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or a basic latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip about 10% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts for small tips.
FAQs: Trains from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sacramento, 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.
The distance by train from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is 114 miles (185 km).
The first train from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 4:10 AM.
The last train from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 6:55 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
The train journey from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through lush landscapes, rolling hills, and the picturesque areas of the Central Valley and coastal regions, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
No, you cannot take the train from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
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 Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Most Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trains use the Sacramento Valley Station to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center station pair. Use this guide to compare Sacramento, 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 Sacramento
Arrival train stations in Santa Cruz
Which Sacramento, CA station do trains to Santa Cruz, CA leave from?
Trains from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leave from Sacramento Valley Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Sacramento, CA city centre at 401 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA.
Sacramento Valley Station401 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Sacramento Valley Station from Sacramento city centre
Bus30, 38, 62 · 6m · €3 · every ~10 min
45 · 23m · €3
TramGold · 3m · €3 · every ~7 min
Sacramento Valley Station train station facilities and services
Sacramento Valley Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Firehouse Restaurant, Ten22
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento Valley Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade, Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel.
Which Santa Cruz, CA station do trains from Sacramento, CA arrive at?
Trains from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA arrive at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center. Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Cruz, CA city centre.
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro CenterSanta Cruz, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center from Santa Cruz city centre
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Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center train station facilities and services
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court with various options available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi available throughout the station. ATMs are several ATMs available near ticket counters.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center: Station is fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
Most popular train connections from Sacramento, CA
More options for your journey from Sacramento, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
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Most popular trains to and from Santa Cruz, CA and Sacramento, CA
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