From the San Francisco Bay Area to Southern California, the usual route is I-5, a long, stressful drive or an even longer, stressful flight. But the Bay Area has an easier option. Emeryville is your Bay Area Amtrak connection, with service to LA’s Union Station. Train Ticket Pro helps you see the options that work the best for you. You can even compare prices across days to book the ticket that best with your schedule.
Your Two Main Options
1. Coast Starlight: scenic direct train
The Coast Starlight is one of Amtrak’s classic routes. It runs from Seattle all the way down to LA. If you want to take the train rather than the bus as much as possible, this route is for you. It’s a direct, non-stop route that takes just under 12 hours. This route offers long stretches of coastline and open countryside. Bring a book and enjoy the relaxing scenic views! amtrakguideomio
2. Gold Runner with bus connection: the quicker option
The Gold Runner, which also offers connecting buses, takes 8 to 11 hours, depending on your departure time. This option transfers in Bakersfield. It offers many more departure times throughout the day, but you will change modes of transportation. zadrails
Quick Comparison
| Coast Starlight | Gold Runner + Bus | |
| Transfers | None (direct) | Yes, one transfer |
| Travel time | ~12 hours | ~8–11 hours |
| Daily departures | 1 | Several |
| Best for | Scenic, relaxed trips | Flexible timing, shorter trips |
| Sleeping accommodations | Available | Not applicable |
Distance and Travel Time
The Coast Starlight train covers about 345 miles from Emeryville to Los Angeles. As it departs from Seattle and can build up delays en route to the Bay Area, expect possible delays for all trains. Because of this, you can’t rely on the schedule. Give yourself extra time if you have a connecting flight, hotel check-in, or event upon arrival.
Ticket Prices
Prices on the Coast Starlight are based on date, demand and seat type. One travel site lists the average fare for this route at around $53. Fares rise as the departure date approaches, so booking as early as possible gets you a lower price. Lolomove
Ways to save:
- Book several weeks ahead
- Try to travel on weekdays
- Look at fares for the Coast Starlight and the Gold Runner for the same day
- Try to find Amtrak promotions before you make your payment
Stations
- Departure: From Emeryville Station. This station is near Berkeley and Oakland, and has a free bus connection to San Francisco.
- Arrival: At Los Angeles Union Station. This is a major hub and has connections to LA’s Metro Rail, Metrolink and Bus services.
What to Expect Onboard
- Seats with recline, extra legroom
- Food and drink on select long-distance trains
- Sleeping cars on Coast Starlight
- Outlets, large windows
- Small pets under 20 lbs are allowed on some Amtrak trains for a fee, in a carrier. Service animals are free.
Train vs. Driving vs. Flying
| Train | Car | Flight | |
| Stress level | Low | High (traffic, fatigue) | Medium |
| Scenery | Excellent | Good | Limited |
| Total time | 8-12 hrs | ~6-7 hrs | ~1.5 hrs + airport time |
| Work or sleep onboard | Yes | No | Limited |
| Environmental impact | Lower | Higher | Highest |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Emeryville to Los Angeles?
Yes, the Coast Starlight runs direct once a day, no transfers.
How long does it take to get from Emeryville to Los Angeles by train?
The Coast Starlight takes about 12 hours. The Gold Runner with a bus connection can be 8 to 11 hours.
Which train is best for overnight travel?
The Coast Starlight offers overnight accommodations.
How do you get from San Francisco to Emeryville?
Amtrak provides a bus connection from San Francisco to Emeryville. Check your booking for the exact connection.
Are there delays or service changes?
Track work can affect the Coast Starlight. According to one source, track work in July 2026 changed Coast Starlight 14’s starting point. Check the live status before you travel.