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Everything you need to know about traveling to Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport and getting around it.

In this guide:

Arriving & Checking In

Facilities & Services


Arriving & Checking In

Address: Oakland Airport, 1 Airport Dr, Oakland, CA 94621

Getting to Oakland International Airport

If you’re driving, GPS navigation will get you to the airport quickly and seamlessly.

It’s best to reserve a lot space in advance. AirportParkingReservations have many off-site Oakland Airport parking options for you which offer greater value, flexibility and ease of use than onsite airport parking. All of our lot operators offer transportation to OAK most hours of the day for your convenience.

Arriving at the airport

How early to get to OAK depends on the time of your flight and the airline you’ve booked to fly with:

  • Passengers for domestic flights should arrive at the airport two hours before departure.
  • Travelers on international flights should aim to get to the airport three hours before departure.

To avoid delays when traveling during the peak summer periods, we recommend arriving in plenty of time in accordance with your flight departure.

Oakland International Airport Check-In

For a smooth departure from Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport, check your airline’s specific check-in requirements ahead of time, as policies may vary. The most accurate information can be found by contacting your airline directly.

Whenever possible, take advantage of online check-in to save time and skip long lines at the airport. Completing this step early ensures a hassle-free start to your journey, allowing you to focus on your upcoming travel plans.

Oakland International Airport Security Screening

Once checked in, head to OAK security screening to reach the departure lounge.

For a smoother departure from OAK Airport, we recommend arriving early to allow ample time for security screening. Wait times can fluctuate, especially during peak travel periods like early mornings, holidays, and the summer season. Planning ahead ensures a stress-free start to your journey.

Boarding & Connecting Flights at OAK

Connecting flights at Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport? Staying updated on your next flight is essential. Check digital flight displays and airline apps regularly for real-time gate and departure information.

For those with checked luggage, verify if re-checking is necessary and review your airline’s baggage policies. Additionally, ensure you have all required boarding passes, as some connecting flights may require a new one. A bit of advance planning can help make your transfer smooth and stress-free.

Airlines that Serve Oakland International Airport

Many airlines serve the OAK airport. These airlines include: Alaskan Airlines, Allegiant, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, Jet Blue, Norwegian, Sata, Southwest, Spirit, US Airways, and Volaris.

Things to Know about OAK

Individuals within the OAK airport must possess a ticket for travel to stay. Extended periods of time within the airport (such as overnight stays) are not permitted by law. Individuals who do not leave promptly when asked will be arrested.

Facilities & Services

Oakland International Airport Restaurants: Where to Eat?

Fenton’s Ice Cream is a must try when passing through the OAK airport. The creamery has been a staple in the Bay Area since 1864, and has a creamery open in the OAK airport. A wide variety of flavors are available to suit everyone’s taste. Silver Dragon is also a staple in the Bay Area and a must try at OAK airport. The restaurant serves Chinese and Korean dishes and is known for their beef chow fun.

Fancy a Game of Golf?

Long layovers in the OAK airport do not have to feel like wasted time. There is a Metropolitan Golf Link that runs right by the airport. A relaxing game of golf is made easy with the free club rentals that are available to travelers.

Oakland International Airport Aviation Museum

And, if golfing is not for you, you could visit the Oakland Aviation Museum, which is located at North Field, and is a great way to spend the time.

Oakland International Airport WiFi

While traveling, staying in touch with the rest of the world is important. The OAK airport caters to travelers needs to be in touch by providing free Wi-Fi throughout the airport terminals.

Sleeping at OAK Airport

There are also several cushioned seats throughout the airport that do not feature armrests, which give you the opportunity to use several chairs as a couch if you are in need of a nap to rejuvenate your energy for the rest of your travels. Although, please note that overnight stays at OAK Airport are not permitted by law.

Which Bay Area Airport is the Best?

If you’re traveling out of San Francisco and are not sure as to which Bay Area airport you should use for your trip, take a read of our guide – Bay Area Airports. Which is the best: SFO, San Jose or Oakland? to help you decide.


Main photo:

Cedric Letsch on Unsplash