Visiting USA

San Francisco

Trains from San Francisco to Oakland are a quick and easy way to get from one major Bay Area city to the other when you are visiting the USA.

The train service that runs between the cities is called the Bay Area Rapid Transit, or BART. BART trains depart from multiple underground stations throughout downtown San Francisco and arrive at a number of locations in Oakland. You can also take BART trains from San Francisco to Oakland Airport if your flight departs from there.

There are several different BART lines that run from San Francisco to Oakland. Depending on your final destination, you will want to take a Fremont train, a Pittsburg/Bay Point train, or a Dublin/Pleasonton train. There are maps online and in the stations to help you determine which line to take.

Tickets for trains from San Francisco to Oakland vary in price depending on which station you depart from and which one you arrive at. For example, if you travel from Embarcadero Station to 12th Street Oakland City Center Station, a ticket costs $3.10 one-way. The journey time on this route is 10 minutes.

San Francisco

Trains from San Francisco to San Jose are a great way to get between the two California cities using public transportation.

Trains are operated by Caltrain. They run seven days a week from the train station at 700 4th Street in San Francisco’s SoMa district. They arrive at the San Jose train station, which is located at 65 Cahill Street.

Trains run from 4:55am until 12:01am on weekdays, with up to five departures an hour. On the weekends there is a reduced schedule, with trains operating between 8:15am and 12:01am on Saturdays and 8:15am and 9:15pm on Sundays.

Some trains are express trains that stop only at four or five stations between San Francisco and San Jose. Others are local trains that stop at all stations along the way.

The travel time on trains from San Francisco to San Jose ranges from 57 minutes for trains with the least number of stops to 1 hour and 31 minutes for trains that stop at every station between the two cities.

Tickets cost $8.75 one-way or $17.50 for an all day ticket that allows unlimited travel to any station in zones 1 to 4. Discounts are available for children under 18, seniors over 65, disabled passengers, and Medicare cardholders.

You can buy tickets for trains from San Francisco to San Jose at the train station. There are ticket machines there that accept cash, credit cards, and Visa and Mastercard debit cards.

Beach along Highway 1

The best places on Highway 1 in California span the coast from north to south. There is so much beautiful coastline that the entire highway is worth a drive, but if you only have a short time to visit California, here are some of the top places to stop. They are listed in order from north to south:

Mendocino – Famous for its laid-back vibe and gorgeous coastline, Mendocino is home to wineries, B&Bs, Victorian architecture, stunning Redwood trees, and beautiful beaches. While there, don’t miss nearby Fort Bragg, Sea Ranch, Elk, Gualala, and Point Arena.

Point Reyes – The Point Reyes National Seashore is one of most stunning places on Highway 1 in California. Jutting out into the Pacific Ocean, it has great beaches and is home to the famous Point Reyes Lighthouse.

San Francisco – This pretty city by the bay needs no introduction. Its famous Victorian buildings, lively farmers’ markets, great food, rich history, and steep hills attract visitors from all over the world.

Half Moon Bay – The sleepy farm town of Half Moon Bay is home to some of the most famous big wave surfing in California. For those that prefer to stay on land, there are miles of beaches and a great coastal trail for hiking. Additionally, you can play golf or stay the night at the famous Ritz Carlton Hotel in Half Moon Bay.

Pescadero – The historic town of Pescadero is one of the oldest in California. Just 2 miles from the Pescadero State Beach on Highway 1, it is home to the famous Duarte’s Tavern, which has been open since the 19th century. If you eat there, don’t miss the restaurant’s classic artichoke dishes. Afterwards, walk off the calories by strolling through the antique shops and general store.

Santa Cruz – Santa Cruz is known throughout the world as a great surfing destination, and is one of the best places along Highway 1 in California. The city is home to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park, the Mystery Spot, great shopping, good food, and a classic California vibe.

Monterey and Carmel – The neighboring cities of Monterey and Carmel are the perfect places to go for boutique shopping, California history, and the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are trails running along the coast that are perfect for walking or cycling, and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course is also located there. Make sure to book well in advance if you want to play.

Big Sur – Big Sur is what most people think of when they think of Highway 1. The sunning rocks jutting out of the sea, the high cliffs dropping into the Pacific Ocean, and the rocky beaches along the coast all make Big Sur one of the most iconic spots in California.

Santa Barbara – The pretty city of Santa Barbara is one of the most beloved places in Southern California. There is no shortage of things to do there, including wine tasting at the area’s famous wineries, shopping at art galleries, relaxing at spas, and of course going to the beach.

San Diego – One of the final stops on Highway 1 before the border with Mexico, San Diego is a classic California surf city with a great atmosphere and friendly locals. Don’t miss towns like pretty Del Mar, chi chi La Jolla, and laid-back Pacific Beach as you make your way to the famous Gaslamp district in downtown San Diego. When you’re tired of the city, head to the beaches to see some more of the best places on Highway 1 in California.