San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Jun 21
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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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$31

Average price

$36

Fastest journey

2 h 45 m

Average duration

3 h 10 m

Trains per day

5

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 $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak723 Capitol Corridor · 6973 AMTRAK
    7:45 AM2h57
    Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
    10:42 AMSanta Cruz, CA
    $311One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak729 Capitol Corridor · 6979 AMTRAK
    10:35 AM2h56
    Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
    1:31 PMSanta Cruz, CA
    $311One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak747 Capitol Corridor · 6967 AMTRAK
    6:46 PM3h24
    Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
    10:10 PMSanta Cruz, CA
    $311One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak741 Capitol Corridor · 6987 AMTRAK
    2:36 PM2h45
    Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
    5:21 PMSanta Cruz, CA
    $311One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 6977 AMTRAK
    8:39 AM3h48
    Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
    12:27 PMSanta Cruz, CA
    $561One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 27m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $29.

Distance: 59 miles (95 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$37

Average price

$16

Average price

Cheapest

$16

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 57m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 33m

Average total duration

3h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 19m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is a bus with an average price of $16 (€13).

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

A bus is $21 (€17) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA costing on average $37 (€30).

The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 27m.

Other travel options to Santa Cruz, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, 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 $37 (€30) compared to roughly $16 (€13) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-21.61 (€-17.69). The journey takes 2h 27m versus 1h 19m 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.

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, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak741 Capitol Corridor · 6987 AMTRAK2:36 PM Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
2h45
5:21 PM Santa Cruz, CA1 transfer
Amtrak747 Capitol Corridor · 6967 AMTRAK6:46 PM Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
3h24
10:10 PM Santa Cruz, CA1 transfer
Sunday, June 21
Amtrak723 Capitol Corridor · 6973 AMTRAK7:45 AM Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
2h57
10:42 AM Santa Cruz, CA1 transfer
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 6977 AMTRAK8:39 AM Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
3h48
12:27 PM Santa Cruz, CA1 transfer
Amtrak729 Capitol Corridor · 6979 AMTRAK10:35 AM Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
2h56
1:31 PM Santa Cruz, CA1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

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Trains from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 20:34. The fastest train covers the 59 miles (95 km) distance in 2h 36m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $16 (€13)
Distance
59 miles (95 km)
Average train duration
2h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 36m
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
8:34 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $16 (€13)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and Santa Cruz, CA from $16 (€13). 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 36m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
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 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $37 (€30).
The train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA takes 2h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is 59 miles (95 km).
The last train from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA leaves at 8:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
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.
A day trip from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA is not feasible because the travel duration is 2h 36m. However, trains run 10 times per day.
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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA.
Since neither San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

San Francisco
Santa Cruz
The major train station for departures in San Francisco is San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) for your trip from San Francisco to Santa Cruz.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)
information

More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

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Most popular train connections to Santa Cruz, CA

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