Sip your way down the Peninsula, one tea at a time.
If you’re a boba tea lover and enjoy a leisurely day trip with minimal driving, the Boba Trail along Caltrain is your perfect weekend adventure. With a cluster of standout boba shops just steps from Caltrain stations, you can explore unique flavors, enjoy walkable downtowns, and soak in the local charm of each stop—without worrying about traffic or parking.
Start in South San Francisco: BeauTea
Kick off your boba journey at BeauTea, just a short 7-minute walk (0.4 miles) from the South San Francisco Caltrain Station. This cozy shop features creative drinks like strawberry matcha and brown sugar milk tea, served in aesthetic cups that are as photogenic as they are flavorful.
Next Stop: San Bruno – Societea Teahouse & Eatery
Hop back on Caltrain and head south to the San Bruno Station. A 5-minute walk brings you to Societea Teahouse & Eatery, where you’ll find a menu full of premium loose-leaf teas and house-made toppings. Their Okinawa milk tea and taro brûlée are crowd favorites, and the cozy interior is perfect for a quick recharge.
Millbrae – Grapeholic
From San Bruno, it’s a short ride to Millbrae Station. Just 0.3 miles from the platform is Grapeholic, a must-stop for fruit tea lovers. Known for its refreshing grape and peach teas with chewy crystal boba, this shop is ideal for those who like their drinks fruity and vibrant.
Burlingame – Sunright Tea Studio
Next, disembark at Burlingame Station and take a 4-minute stroll to Sunright Tea Studio. The sleek, modern design and top-tier tea blends make this spot stand out. Don’t miss their signature Sunright Boba Milk Tea or the seasonal fruit teas, best enjoyed while exploring the charming downtown boutiques and shaded sidewalks.
San Mateo – Urban Ritual
Ride down to the heart of San Mateo and get off at the San Mateo Station. A 6-minute walk will bring you to Urban Ritual, a trendy boba shop known for artisanal teas and house-made ingredients. Their creamy matcha latte with boba or the unique White Peach Oolong are highly recommended.
Hillsdale (San Mateo) – Sharetea
Still in San Mateo, head south to the Hillsdale Station, where Sharetea is a quick 6-minute walk away. A global favorite, Sharetea consistently delivers classic milk teas and innovative specials. It’s a great stop if you’re visiting the Hillsdale Shopping Center for some retail therapy between drinks.
Final Stop: Redwood City – Bobalicious
Wrap up your day at Bobalicious near Redwood City Station, just a 6-minute walk away. This cozy, family-owned shop has a welcoming vibe and offers customizable drinks with plenty of topping options. It's the perfect spot to reflect on your boba journey with a refreshing Thai tea or honeydew smoothie.
Tips for the Trail:
- Buy a Clipper Card or use the Caltrain mobile app to streamline travel.
- Consider a Day Pass if you're making multiple stops.
- Bring a reusable straw and cup for a more sustainable adventure.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Boba Trail by Caltrain is a fun, flavorful way to explore the Peninsula—one sip at a time.