Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Jun 21
+ 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 Jun 27

Cheapest price

$33

Average price

$33

Fastest journey

3 h 7 m

Average duration

3 h 7 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 $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Santa Cruz, CA for Oakland, CA on Sat, Jun 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 27 the direct trains cover the 95 km distance in an average of 3 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .

On Sat, Jun 27 the slowest trains will take 3 h 7 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
    2:15 AM3h07
    Santa Cruz, CA
    5:22 AMOakland, CA
    $331One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus 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 bus with prices starting from $25. 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 bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $25.

Distance: 59 miles (95 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$27

Average price

$27

Average price

Cheapest

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

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).

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

A bus is $0.40 (€0.33) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA costing on average $27 (€22).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 3m.

Other travel options to Oakland, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Cruz, CA and Oakland, CA including taking a train and bus.
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.

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak6956 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight5:05 PM Santa Cruz, CA
4h01
9:06 PM Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA1 transfer
Sunday, June 21
Amtrak2:15 AM Santa Cruz, CA
3h07
5:22 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 train or bus

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

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) 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 51m.

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
$25 (€20)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 51m
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
8:43 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
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 $25 (€20). 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 51m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
Amtrak frequency
7 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 $25 (€20), while the average price is around $27 (€22).
The train from Santa Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA takes 2h 51m and runs 7 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 $25 (€20).
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 51m. 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

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

Departure train stations in Santa Cruz
Arrival train stations in Oakland
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Oakland, CASanta Cruz, CA to Oakland, CA train

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