City to city
Los Angeles to San Francisco (Emeryville) by Train
The direct train from Los Angeles to San Francisco (Emeryville) is the Coast Starlight, which completes the journey in about 11 to 12 hours.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coast Starlight | about 11 to 12 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Traveling between Southern California and the Bay Area by rail offers a relaxing alternative to flying or driving. The route connects two major metropolitan hubs while skirting the Pacific Ocean for a significant portion of the trip. Passengers can avoid airport security lines and highway traffic, enjoying the spacious cars and onboard amenities instead. This guide covers everything you need to know about the daily service connecting Los Angeles and Emeryville, including station details, accommodation options and the coastal scenery you will see along the way.
Your train options
The Coast Starlight runs directly between these cities, operating daily in each direction as of 2026. The trip takes about 11 to 12 hours. Since this is an overnight journey on this specific trip, passengers have a few choices for sleeping. Budget travelers can reserve Coach with reclining seats and leg rests. If you go this route, check our tips for sleeping in coach overnight.
For a proper bed, you can book Amtrak sleeper accommodations. The train features the Superliner Roomette, Superliner Bedroom, Family Bedroom and Accessible Bedroom. Booking a sleeper class includes meals in the Dining car. Every passenger is welcome in the Sightseer Lounge car to enjoy the views. Your choice largely depends on your budget and how much privacy you want during the overnight hours.
The journey
Departing Los Angeles Union Station, the train travels through the San Fernando Valley and passes through Burbank and Van Nuys. The route then reaches the Pacific Ocean. Between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, you will see the coastline past Ventura and Carpinteria. The train continues north through Oxnard and Santa Barbara.
The stretch from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo features over 100 miles of Pacific coastline. Much of this area, including the Vandenberg section, has no highway in sight. The train also navigates the Cuesta Grade horseshoe curve. Depending on the time of year and the specific schedule, some of these coastal views may pass in darkness since this is an overnight trip. After San Luis Obispo, the train heads inland with stops in Paso Robles, Salinas and San Jose. Finally, the route passes through Oakland before arriving in Emeryville.
The stations
Los Angeles Union Station opened in 1939 and features a landmark mix of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture. It serves as the terminus for the Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief and Sunset Limited, while also acting as a hub for the Pacific Surfliner. The station connects to Metro Rail lines, Metrolink commuter trains and the FlyAway bus to LAX airport.
The San Francisco (Emeryville) station is located in the East Bay between Oakland and Berkeley. There is no Amtrak station in San Francisco itself. Instead, Amtrak Thruway buses run from Emeryville across the Bay Bridge to stops in San Francisco. Emeryville is the western terminus of the California Zephyr and a stop for the Capitol Corridor.
Tips
- Book your tickets early to secure the best prices on sleeper accommodations.
- Review our guide for your first time on Amtrak to understand the boarding process.
- Spend time in the Sightseer Lounge car to get the best views of the Pacific coastline.
- Check the Amtrak Thruway bus schedule if you need a connection across the Bay Bridge into San Francisco.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Los Angeles and San Francisco?
No, you do not need to change trains. The Coast Starlight provides a direct service from Los Angeles Union Station to Emeryville. You will only need to transfer to an Amtrak Thruway bus if you are continuing into the city of San Francisco itself.
How long is the train ride from Los Angeles to Emeryville?
The direct train journey on the Coast Starlight takes about 11 to 12 hours. Delays can occasionally happen, so it is wise to allow some flexibility in your travel plans upon arrival.