- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $36
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $37
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 5 h 9 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 5 h 9 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 2
- Distance
- 95 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 2 trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 95 km distance in an average of 5 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 9 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 5 h 9 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.
3:00 PM 5h09 San Francisco, CA 8:09 PM Santa Cruz, CA $36 1 One-way 0 transfers2:00 PM 5h09 San Francisco, CA 7:09 PM Santa Cruz, CA $38 1 One-way 0 transfers
3:00 PM 5h09 San Francisco, CA 8:09 PM Santa Cruz, CA $36 1 One-way 0 transfers2:00 PM 5h09 San Francisco, CA 7:09 PM Santa Cruz, CA $38 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA and enjoy the approximately 59 miles (95 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 20:34.
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 59 miles (95 km) |
First train 4:55 AM |
Last train 8:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 7 days |
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
Frequently asked questions about your San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is 59 miles (95 km).
The first train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 8:34 PM.
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:00 PM San Francisco, CA | 5h09 | 7:09 PM Santa Cruz, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:00 PM San Francisco, CA | 5h09 | 8:09 PM Santa Cruz, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Plan your visit to Santa Cruz, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Santa Cruz, CA.
The journey from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA by train offers some scenic views, particularly when traveling along the coastline and through the rolling hills and redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. However, much of this route involves transfers and bus connections, as there is no direct train service between the two cities.
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.
FAQs: Trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, 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.
No, you cannot take the train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Most San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trains use the San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center station pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, 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 San Francisco
Arrival train stations in Santa Cruz
Which San Francisco, CA station do trains to Santa Cruz, CA leave from?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leave from San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). The station is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at 4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
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San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) train station facilities and services
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are accessible in the vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi available at surrounding public areas. ATMs are aTMs available in nearby buildings.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Station is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Which Santa Cruz, CA station do trains from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Francisco, 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.
Train stations for San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Check train stations information for San Francisco, CA and Santa Cruz, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in San Francisco, CA that goes to Santa Cruz, CA is San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank), which connects to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center.
Most popular train connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santa Cruz, CA and San Francisco, CA
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