San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge
Experience the grandeur of the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge, an iconic landmark offering stunning views and a rich history connecting San Francisco and Oakland.
The San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge, often called the Bay Bridge, is a complex of bridges spanning the San Francisco Bay, connecting San Francisco and Oakland. Carrying approximately 260,000 vehicles daily, it's a vital transportation link and an iconic landmark.
A brief summary to San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge
- San Francisco – Oakland Bay Brg, San Francisco, California, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid heavy traffic, especially during weekday commutes.
- Take advantage of the Bay Bridge Trail on the eastern span for a unique pedestrian or bicycle experience.
- Visit at night to witness the mesmerizing Bay Lights, an art installation that illuminates the bridge.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the bay.
- Check traffic conditions before you go. The Bay Bridge is known for being a highly congested corridor.
Getting There
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Driving
If you're driving from San Francisco, take Interstate 80 East towards Oakland. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak hours. Tolls are collected in the westbound direction (towards San Francisco). As of July 2025, the toll for solo drivers is $8. You can pay with FasTrak, a License Plate Account, a one-time payment, or via invoice. Parking near the bridge in San Francisco can be limited and expensive. Consider parking further away from the immediate waterfront area and walking or using public transportation for the last leg of your journey.
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Public Transport
From San Francisco, you can take BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) towards the East Bay. Get off at a station in Oakland or Emeryville, depending on your desired destination. AC Transit buses also provide service across the Bay Bridge. Several transbay lines connect San Francisco with various locations in the East Bay. A one-way BART ticket from Embarcadero Station in San Francisco to 19th Street Oakland Station costs approximately $4. The cost of AC Transit varies depending on the route, but a single adult fare is around $2.50. From the Oakland or Emeryville stations, you can connect to local transportation or walk to the Bay Bridge Trail.
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Walking
To access the Bay Bridge Trailhead from Oakland, you can walk from the MacArthur BART Station. Head west on 40th Street, which turns into Shellmound Street. The trailhead is across the street from IKEA. Alternatively, from the 19th Street BART Station, walk north on Broadway and west on West Grand Avenue to Maritime Street, then left on Maritime to Burma Road. The trailhead is at 210 Burma Road. Walking to the trailheads is free, but remember that the Bay Bridge Trail is only open from 6 AM to 9 PM.
Discover more about San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Flatiron Building
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Cupid's Span
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Golden Gate Ferry Terminal Upper Level Public Viewing Area
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Bay Bridge
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Ferry Building
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Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
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San Francisco Railway Museum
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City Cruises San Francisco
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Embarcadero Plaza
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Essential places to dine
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Prospect
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Quince
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Mourad
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Trestle Restaurant
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House of Nanking
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Z & Y Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Bowerbird
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SFMOMa Museum Store
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Canton Bazaar
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Peking Bazaar
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Up & Up Gift Shop
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Souvenir Shop
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Harlan Records
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Buddha Lounge
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Iron Horse Cocktails
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