Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, May 07
+ Add return
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 Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$27

Average price

$27

Fastest journey

3 h 27 m

Average duration

3 h 27 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

95 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Santa Cruz, CA for Oakland, CA on Thu, May 07, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 95 km distance in an average of 3 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 27 m .

On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 3 h 27 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
    2:30 PM3h27
    Santa Cruz, CA
    5:57 PMOakland, CA
    $271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 3m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $27, and a bus costs an average of $27.

Distance: 59 miles (95 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$28

Average price

Cheapest

$28

Average price

2h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 48m

Average total duration

2h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA trains for today, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak2:30 PM Santa Cruz, CA
3h27
5:57 PM Oakland, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak10:30 PM Santa Cruz, CA
2h51
1:21 AM Oakland, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13

Journey information

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

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Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 20:43. The fastest train covers the 59 miles (95 km) distance in 2h 21m.

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)
Average train duration
2h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
$27 (€22)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 21m
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
8:43 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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 Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Cruz, CA and Oakland, CA from $27 (€22). 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 21m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Amtrak frequency
8 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 Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $28 (€22).
The train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA takes 2h 21m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA is 59 miles (95 km).
The last train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 8:43 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the lush landscapes of the Santa Cruz Mountains and along the San Francisco Bay, providing passengers with picturesque coastal and forested vistas along the way.
A day trip from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 21m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 59 miles (95 km).
In Oakland, CA, you can visit the vibrant Temescal Alley for unique shops and eateries, explore the historic USS Potomac, and enjoy performances at the Fox Theater. Discover diverse flavors at the Oakland First Fridays street festival, and take a scenic bike ride along the Bay Trail. For sightseeing, visit Lake Merritt, the Oakland Museum of California, Jack London Square, Redwood Regional Park, and the Chabot Space and Science Center.
For a fulfilling experience in Oakland, CA, spending 2 to 3 days is often ideal, allowing time to explore its diverse neighborhoods, museums, parks, and vibrant culinary scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA.
Since neither Santa Cruz, CA nor Oakland, 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.
Popular day trips by train from Oakland, CA include Sacramento, CA, Stockton, CA, Davis, CA, Santa Clara, CA, San Jose, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, including pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs. Avoid displaying valuables openly and park in well-lit, secure areas. Scams such as fake ticket sellers or overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers have been reported. Staying alert, using official transportation services, and verifying ticket purchases online can help ensure a safer experience.
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 Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA

Santa Cruz
Oakland
The major train station for departures in Santa Cruz is Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center for your trip from Santa Cruz to Oakland.
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center
information
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Oakland, CASanta Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA train

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