A Luxe Sleeper Train from SF to LA Might Come in 2025
A New Era of Travel Between San Francisco and Los Angeles
San Francisco residents, take note: a transformative way to journey between the City by the Bay and Los Angeles is on the horizon. Dreamstar Lines, a Newport Beach-based transit startup, is introducing a luxurious overnight train service that promises to change the way Californians experience travel along the Golden State’s dramatic coastline.
Dubbed the Golden Coast Express, this innovative train service will begin its nightly journey at San Francisco’s Transbay Terminal and conclude the following morning at Los Angeles’ Union Station. Spanning just under 400 miles, the route is designed to offer comfort, convenience, and stunning views, all while bypassing the headaches of air travel and the monotonous drive down Interstate 5.
A Scenic Alternative to Flying
Unlike the frenzy of modern air travel, the Golden Coast Express invites passengers to slow down and savor the journey. The 12-hour overnight trip winds through some of California’s most breathtaking landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Bay Area, the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, and the serene farmland of the Central Coast. For those who lament the rushed, impersonal nature of airports, this train offers a refreshing antidote: a relaxed and intimate environment where the journey becomes as enjoyable as the destination.
Luxury on the Rails
Dreamstar Lines has partnered with BMW Designworks to create an unparalleled onboard experience. Passengers can choose from a variety of sleeping accommodations, ranging from cozy two-person bedrooms with private showers to spacious suites with queen beds. Families or groups can opt for larger rooms that comfortably sleep up to six travelers.
Amenities don’t stop at the sleeping quarters. The train features a full-service lounge car, complete with a bar showcasing California’s finest wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Light meals will be available, ensuring passengers are well-fed as they unwind and enjoy the scenic ride.
Environmentally Friendly Travel
In addition to luxury, Dreamstar Lines is committed to sustainability. The train will utilize refurbished rail cars powered by hydrogen or hybrid electric-hydrogen technology, aligning with California’s strict air quality standards. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces the environmental impact of travel but also positions Dreamstar as a pioneer in green transit solutions.
Convenience for Bay Area Travelers
The Golden Coast Express is tailored to meet the needs of a diverse audience. Business travelers will appreciate the overnight schedule, which allows them to wake up refreshed and ready for meetings in Los Angeles. Families and leisure travelers will enjoy the stress-free journey and the ability to bring their vehicles along, thanks to the train’s auto ferry service.
Reservations are expected to open in the summer of 2025, with the first journeys planned for 2026. Pricing is anticipated to be competitive with last-minute flights or the combined cost of airfare and hotels, making this a compelling option for travelers seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
A New Chapter in California Transit
The Golden Coast Express is more than just a train; it’s a reimagining of how we connect two of California’s most vibrant cities. For San Francisco residents tired of the grind of air travel or the tedium of long drives, this new service offers a luxurious, stress-free alternative.
Keep an eye out for reservation announcements in 2025, and get ready to embark on a journey that’s as unforgettable as the destinations themselves. The future of travel between San Francisco and Los Angeles is rolling into view, and it’s nothing short of spectacular.
About Dreamstar Lines
Dreamstar Lines provides the premier overnight sleeper train service in North America.No more spending the day behind the wheel fighting traffic, getting up early for a flight, or losing half a day to travel.Instead, relax in comfort as we transport you overnight to your destination while you soundly sleep in one of our luxurious accommodations.Our first route will connect the San Francisco Bay area to the Los Angeles Megalopolis.
Hat Tip: Sunset Magazine
