A magnet for bohemians, beatniks, and young entrepreneurs, Oakland is the happy little brother of San Francisco. Travelers often miss out on its charms thanks to the famous draws of the West Bay Area, but that's a huge shame. You can wallow here between Pacific brew pubs and independent coffee roasters, explore an ethnically diverse Chinatown, or unravel fascinating stories in the African American museum. Science centers, quirky art galleries, and access to the famous Napa Valley all add to the draws, while Oakland vacation rentals are affordable and stylish to boot.
Are you hoping to find top things to see and do while you're in the area? Venture out of your vacation home and check out everything that makes Oakland a fun place to get away. These are some of the most popular attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
Without the stresses of big San Francisco, Oakland manages to create a more chilled and accessible vibe. Regular walking tours of districts like Old Oakland and the 1920s grandeur of Uptown take place most days of the week, and they are neatly balanced out by beer tasting sessions or opportunities to craft your own ales in the town's wealth of cool breweries. Cycling and hiking in the surrounding Oakland Hills is also a great way to survey the beautiful Californian backcountry, while regular farmers' markets and local craft fares are on the calendar all throughout the summer.
The months between May and August are virtually without rain in this part of the Bay Area, which makes the summer the perfect time to search for Oakland vacation rentals, especially if you're planning on hiking the Oakland Hills and enjoying the town's top al fresco bars. There's also usually an Indian Summer in these parts, with September and October not only having high temperatures but also some cheaper places to stay. And coming then will mean you dodge the regular downpours of the winter between December and March.
Oakland sits sandwiched between the scrub-dressed hills and the coastal flats of the San Francisco Bay Area. The swaying trees of the Redwood Regional Park ensconce the city to the east, offering a glimpse at northern Cali's ancient forestry. That soon gives way to the secluded Siesta Valley, which has undulating hills of meadow and scrub, and the De Laveaga Trail that weaves past curious rock formations. Topping off the lot is the lofty Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, where the foxglove fields peak and trough over scrubland that's peppered with snakes and horned owls.
Fly into Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), the closest airport, located 7.1 mi (11.4 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO), which is 14.5 mi (23.3 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, make your way to Oakland-Jack London Square Station or Coliseum Station to see more of the city. You can get around Oakland by jumping on the metro at 12th Street/Oakland City Center Station, 19th St Station or Lake Merritt Station.
Whether you're searching for a cozy retreat for you and your boo or a sprawling house to fit friends and family, you'll find some top vacation rentals in and around Oakland. Here are a couple to get you started:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Oakland vacation rental for you.
Get far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at one of our weekend getaways in or near Oakland. Whether you want to hang out with buddies or spend quality time with the family, there'll be something to suit your needs. Here are a few places we think you'll love:
Studio apartments are a simple yet stylish choice, perfectly suited for couples or solo adventurers. Spend your days getting acquainted with your new surroundings and your nights resting up in your cozy hideaway. These getaways in or near Oakland will tick all the boxes:
Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin or a large vacation home, you'll find the ideal place on Vrbo. Sneak in a mini break at one of these retreats in or near Oakland:
Forget chocolates and roses. Sometimes all you need is to escape for the weekend, just the two of you. At Vrbo, we've got romantic getaways in and around Oakland that would make Cupid green with envy. Here are some we think you'll be enamored with:
If you're searching for somewhere to reconnect with your nearest and dearest this vacation, why not a place with a little glitz and glamour? These mansions for rent in or near Oakland will easily fit your entire crew while doing it in style:
Big groups mean gigantic fun. They also mean finding a place that'll easily fit your entire squad. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Oakland and get your favorite people together under the same roof:
Of all the amenities a vacation rental can offer, a pool is one of the most desired. Take a peek at these houses for rent with a pool in or near Oakland and spend your time splashing around. Just don't forget to bring your inflatable flamingo:
Not sure what the weather is like in Oakland? It has a mediterranean climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging from 55 ºF to 75 ºF. If you're chasing a little more inspiration on places to stay in this exciting destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to scroll through our entire range of Oakland vacation rentals.
No matter if your idea of the perfect escape is up in the mountains or down by the sea, you'll have a lot more fun if you share it with family and friends. Consider one of these large family vacation rentals in or near Oakland and bring the entire crew along:
When you're ready to explore your surroundings, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the area to keep everyone entertained and happy. Chabot Space and Science Center, Paramount Theatre and Alameda County Fairgrounds should be at the top of your list.
Get away from the hustle and bustle and treat the people you love to a vacation of a different sort. Stay in one of these family cabins in or near Oakland and get the camping experience — but with all the creature comforts you're used to!
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Oakland vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.