A Smooth Journey: Sfo Airport Commute Tips

There are several ways to commute to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is a rapid rail service that connects SFO to northern San Mateo County, San Francisco, and the East Bay. The BART station is located on the Departures/Ticketing Level of the International Terminal. Another option is the Caltrain Commuter Rail, which provides service between San Francisco and San Jose, with connections to BART at the Millbrae station. SamTrans also offers 24-hour bus service to and from the airport, connecting it to San Mateo County and parts of San Francisco and Palo Alto. Additionally, ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft, as well as taxi and limo services, are available for travel to and from the airport.

Public transport options to SFO

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers a variety of public transportation options to get to and from the airport. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate through the different options:

BART Rapid Rail Service:

The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) provides direct rapid rail service to and from SFO and destinations like northern San Mateo County, San Francisco, and the East Bay. The BART station at SFO is conveniently located on the Departures/Ticketing Level of the International Terminal (near the G Gates). Passengers can easily access the BART station from any terminal by riding the SFO AirTrain, which is a free service. The AirTrain takes you to the Garage G/BART Station stop. Clipper Cards, which are the Bay Area's all-in-one transit cards, can be purchased at the SFO BART Station upon arrival or added to your mobile wallet in advance.

Caltrain Commuter Rail:

The Caltrain provides rail service between San Francisco and San Jose, with connections to Gilroy during weekday commute hours. BART connects seamlessly with the Caltrain system at the Millbrae Station. Express trains on the Caltrain operate during weekday commute hours, serving select stations. The Caltrain offers a convenient way to travel between the airport and various locations in the Bay Area.

SamTrans Public Bus Service:

SamTrans offers 24-hour bus service to and from SFO, connecting the airport with San Mateo County and parts of San Francisco and Palo Alto. The buses make stops at different terminals for easy access. At Terminal 1, the stop is located at the Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level, curbside adjacent to Courtyard 2. For the International Terminal, the stop is at Level 1, at Courtyard A and curbside adjacent to Courtyard G. SamTrans operates limited late-night service to and from SFO on specific routes, providing additional flexibility for travellers.

Additional Bus Options:

In addition to SamTrans, there are privately operated bus services, known as "Airporters," that serve SFO. These buses travel to pre-arranged stops at scheduled frequencies. Reservations are generally preferred for these services. Some of the carriers currently servicing SFO include Marin Airporter, Groome Transportation, Wine Country Airporter, and Beau Wine Tours. These options provide convenient connections to various locations in the Bay Area, such as Marin County, Monterey, Sonoma County, and Napa Valley.

Travel time and costs

The travel time and costs to and from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) depend on your chosen mode of transport and your starting point. Here is a breakdown of the different options:

• BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit): BART operates a rapid rail service to and from the airport, providing direct connections to northern San Mateo County, San Francisco, and the East Bay. The BART station at SFO is located on the Departures/Ticketing Level of the International Terminal (G Gates side). You can easily access the BART station from any terminal by riding the AirTrain, which is free of charge. BART tickets for adults cost $8.65, while children and seniors can purchase discounted tickets for $9, allowing up to $24 worth of travel. The travel time from the airport to the Embarcadero Station in San Francisco is approximately 35 minutes. From there, you can connect to other parts of the city or continue by taxi to your final destination.
• Caltrain Commuter Rail: Caltrain provides rail service between San Francisco and San Jose, with weekday commute-hour service to Gilroy. BART connects SFO to the Caltrain system at the Millbrae Station. Weekday express trains are also available during commute hours. The cost and travel time on Caltrain will depend on your specific journey.
• SamTrans Public Bus Service: SamTrans offers 24-hour bus service connecting SFO to San Mateo County and parts of San Francisco and Palo Alto. The buses stop directly at the airport terminals, making it a convenient option for travellers. Route 292 stops at all terminals, while Routes EPX and 142 stop at the Rental Car Center and can be accessed from the terminals via the AirTrain blue line. The cost of riding SamTrans will depend on your specific journey, but it typically offers a more affordable option compared to other modes of transport.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available at designated taxi stands in the arrivals level of each terminal at SFO. The average cost of a taxi ride from the airport to Fisherman's Wharf, located about 16 miles south, is around $50–$55, excluding tip. The travel time can vary from 30 to 60 minutes or more, depending on traffic conditions. Taxis can be a convenient option, especially during late-night arrivals or after long international flights.
• Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Smartphone rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to traditional taxis. The cost and travel time will depend on factors such as the time of day and the number of passengers. These services provide flexibility and convenience, allowing you to request a ride from your smartphone.
• Car Rental: Major car rental companies, including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Alamo, Enterprise, National, Dollar, and Thrifty, have counters located a short AirTrain ride away from the terminals. Renting a car provides independence and flexibility during your stay. However, it is important to consider the additional costs of parking, which can be significant, especially at hotels or in downtown areas. For example, parking at Fisherman's Wharf hotels can average $50 per night.
• Shuttle or Shared Ride Vans: These are available at the departure level of each terminal at SFO. The average cost per ride is $16 per person, but you can also rent an entire shuttle for $75 to $80, which can be more cost-effective for larger groups with plenty of luggage. The travel time can vary, especially if the shuttle drops off passengers at multiple locations before reaching your destination.

Taxi and ridesharing services

Taxis

Taxis are readily available at SFO and can be found at designated taxi zones located at the roadway centre islands on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level of all terminals. Uniformed taxi coordinators are on hand to assist passengers from 7:00 a.m. to 2:15 a.m. Wheelchair-accessible taxis can also be requested by contacting the taxi coordinator or by phoning *1191 from any airport courtesy phone.

Taxi fares are metered and include a $4 exit surcharge for rides originating from SFO. Destinations 15 miles beyond San Francisco or the airport are charged at 150% of the metered rate. By sharing a ride, up to five people can travel for the price of one.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also a popular choice for commuters. These services can drop off passengers at the departure level, alongside taxis. When using ridesharing services, it is important to notify the driver of the airline and terminal, as well as your location, to ensure a smooth pickup. Additionally, riders should be mindful of their luggage requirements and choose a vehicle that comfortably accommodates all passengers and suitcases.

Ridesharing services often offer upfront pricing and convenient features such as scheduling rides in advance, making them a stress-free option for travellers.

Car rental options

There are several car rental companies operating out of San Francisco International Airport (SFO), including:

• Budget
• Enterprise
• Avis

Budget

Budget offers a wide variety of car rentals at SFO, including SUVs, vans, luxury cars, and economy cars. They also provide free pick-up services, although you must call your rental location at least 24 hours in advance to arrange this.

Enterprise

Enterprise is located in the consolidated Rental Car Facility at SFO. To get there, take the AirTrain Blue Line from the Air-Train platform at the airport. The AirTrain operates 24/7 and the journey takes about 5-7 minutes.

Avis

Avis is also located in the Rental Car Center at SFO. To get there, follow signs to the Air Train, then board the Blue Line Train to the Rental Car Center.

Avis offers a range of vehicles, including luxury cars, minivans, SUVs, and more. They also provide a free pick-up service, which must be arranged at least 24 hours in advance.

Shuttle services

Shuttle Service Providers:

SFO is served by several shuttle companies that offer shared and private rides. These include well-known brands such as Marin Airporter, Groome Transportation, Wine Country Airporter, and Beau Wine Tours. These companies provide pre-arranged stops and scheduled frequencies, ensuring travellers a reliable commute.

Shuttle Pick-up and Drop-off Locations:

Booking and Reservation:

For shuttle services before 10:30 pm, travellers can usually catch the next available shuttle at the Departure level without any prior booking. However, for shuttle services departing after 11:00 pm, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance. This ensures that you secure a spot on the shuttle and avoid any last-minute hassles.

Shuttle Fares and Payment:

The average cost of a shared shuttle ride is around $16 per person. Alternatively, travellers can also opt to rent an entire shuttle, which typically costs between $75 and $80. This option is particularly cost-effective for larger groups with substantial luggage. Payment methods may vary between shuttle providers, and it is always a good idea to confirm their accepted payment options beforehand.

Travel Time and Traffic Considerations:

When planning your commute, it's important to consider that shared shuttles may make multiple stops along their route to pick up or drop off passengers. Consequently, the travel time to your destination can vary. During peak traffic hours or in case of unforeseen delays, the commute time can further extend. It is advisable to factor in some buffer time to accommodate for potential delays and ensure a stress-free journey.

Frequently asked questions