From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bay Bridge.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge
Drive, bike, or walk across this iconic bridge connecting San Francisco and Oakland, offering stunning views and a glimpse into engineering history.
The Bay Bridge, officially the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, is a complex of bridges spanning the San Francisco Bay and connecting San Francisco to Oakland. Opened in 1936, it's a vital transportation artery and an iconic landmark offering stunning views.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Bay Bridge
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
San Francisco, Rincon Hill, California, 94111, US
Discover more about Bay Bridge
The San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge is more than just a way to get from San Francisco to Oakland; it's a symbol of engineering ingenuity and a testament to the Bay Area's spirit of innovation. Often overshadowed by its more famous sibling, the Golden Gate, the Bay Bridge boasts its own unique charm and a fascinating history.
Conceived as early as the Gold Rush days, construction finally began in 1933 and opened to traffic in 1936. The bridge is actually a complex of distinct sections: two suspension bridges connected to a tunnel on Yerba Buena Island, and a cantilever section that reaches Oakland. This design was necessary due to the challenges of the deep bay waters and varying soil conditions. The bridge is approximately 4.46 miles (7.18 kilometers) long.
In 2016, a 2.2-mile path opened, providing access for pedestrians and cyclists to Treasure Island. Whether you drive across it, take a bike ride, or walk on the pedestrian path, you will be enchanted by the breathtaking views of the Bay Area. At night, marvel at The Bay Lights, an art installation by Leo Villareal, which uses 25,000 LED lights to create a dazzling display across the bridge.
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Getting There
Driving
If driving from San Francisco, follow I-80 East. Tolls are collected in the westbound direction (towards San Francisco). As of 2025, the toll for a 2-axle vehicle is $8. Note that carpool discounts are available during designated hours for vehicles with 3 or more people using FasTrak. Parking near the bridge in San Francisco can be challenging and expensive. Consider using parking apps to find available spots and compare rates. Expect to pay around $20-$45 for parking.
Public Transport
Several public transportation options can get you to the Bay Bridge area. AC Transit offers bus service from various East Bay locations to San Francisco, with connections near the bridge. Use the AC Transit Transbay lines to reach the Salesforce Transit Center, then walk or take a local bus to the Embarcadero area, near the bridge's western end. A local single-ride fare on AC Transit is around $2.50. Alternatively, BART can take you to Embarcadero Station, from which you can walk or transfer to a Muni bus or streetcar. A BART ride from Daly City to Embarcadero costs approximately $4 - $6.
Walking
From the Embarcadero in San Francisco, the Bay Bridge is easily accessible on foot. Follow the Embarcadero waterfront towards the bridge. Enjoy the scenic views as you approach. Note that walking the entire bridge is only possible on the Bay Bridge Trail, which starts in Oakland and goes to Yerba Buena Island. There is no pedestrian access to the bridge from San Francisco.
A brief summary to Bay Bridge
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