If you’re traveling between the San Francisco Bay Area airports, getting from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Oakland Airport (OAK) is easy with various transportation options. Here’s a quick answer if you’re short on time: The most convenient and fastest way is to take the BART train, which takes about 1 hour and costs around $10 one-way.
Other options include renting a car, taking a bus, or booking a shuttle service.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over all the transportation choices for getting between SJC and OAK, including driving yourself, taking public transportation like BART and buses, using rideshares or taxis, and airport shuttles.
We’ll cover the routes, compare the pros and cons of each option, and provide tips to help you choose the best way to get between San Jose and Oakland airports for your specific travel needs.
Getting from SJC to OAK by Public Transportation
Traveling between San Jose Airport (SJC) and Oakland Airport (OAK) doesn’t have to be a hassle. Public transportation options are available to make your journey convenient and affordable. Here are some ways you can get from SJC to OAK using public transportation.
Taking BART Between the Airports
One of the most popular options for getting from SJC to OAK is by taking the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system. BART provides a direct connection between the two airports, allowing you to travel quickly and efficiently.
Simply board the BART train at the San Jose Airport Station and take it to the Coliseum Station, where you can transfer to the Oakland Airport Station. The journey takes approximately 55 minutes, and BART trains run frequently throughout the day.
Transferring from Caltrain to BART
If you are arriving at San Jose Airport and want to take public transportation to Oakland Airport, you can consider transferring from Caltrain to BART. Caltrain provides a convenient connection to the Millbrae Station, where you can transfer to BART and continue your journey to Oakland Airport.
This option is ideal for those who prefer a combination of train and BART for their transportation needs.
Taking the AirBART Shuttle to BART
Another option for getting from SJC to OAK is by taking the AirBART shuttle. This shuttle service operates between the San Jose Airport and the Oakland Coliseum BART Station. Once you arrive at the San Jose Airport, look for the AirBART shuttle stop outside the terminals.
The shuttle will take you to the Oakland Coliseum BART Station, where you can catch a BART train to the Oakland Airport Station. This option provides a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two airports.
Riding VTA Bus #10 to BART
If you prefer taking a bus, you can ride the VTA Bus #10 to connect from SJC to OAK. The VTA Bus #10 operates between the San Jose Airport and the Santa Clara Caltrain Station. From there, you can transfer to BART and continue your journey to Oakland Airport.
This option is suitable for those who want to combine bus and BART for their transportation needs.
Remember to check the schedules and fares for each transportation option to plan your journey accordingly. Public transportation is a great way to travel between San Jose Airport and Oakland Airport, offering convenience, affordability, and a chance to experience the Bay Area’s efficient transportation system.
Driving from SJC to OAK
If you prefer the convenience and flexibility of driving, there are several options available for getting from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Oakland Airport (OAK). Here are three popular choices:
Rental Car
Renting a car is a great option if you want the freedom to explore the Bay Area on your own schedule. Several major car rental companies, such as Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise, have offices at San Jose Airport.
You can easily pick up your rental car upon arrival and drive to Oakland Airport, which is approximately 36 miles away. The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Taxi or Rideshare
Another convenient option is to take a taxi or rideshare service, such as Uber or Lyft, from San Jose Airport to Oakland Airport. These services provide door-to-door transportation and can be a good choice if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of driving and finding parking.
The fare for a taxi or rideshare can vary depending on factors such as distance and time of day, so it’s a good idea to check the rates beforehand.
Airport Parking and Pickup Options
If you have your own vehicle, you may consider parking it at San Jose Airport and using a shuttle service to get to Oakland Airport. San Jose Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with rates starting at $2 per hour and $18 per day.
There are also off-site parking facilities near the airport that provide shuttle services to Oakland Airport. These parking options can be a cost-effective solution, especially for longer trips.
For more detailed information on driving from San Jose Airport to Oakland Airport, you can visit the official websites of both airports: https://www.flysanjose.com/ and https://www.oaklandairport.com/.
Airport Shuttles Between SJC and OAK
When it comes to traveling between San Jose Airport (SJC) and Oakland Airport (OAK), airport shuttles are a convenient and reliable option. Several shuttle services operate in the area, providing passengers with a hassle-free transportation experience. Here are some popular airport shuttle options:
South and East Bay Airport Shuttle
The South and East Bay Airport Shuttle offers a convenient and affordable way to travel between SJC and OAK. Their comfortable shuttles run on a regular schedule, ensuring that you reach your destination on time.
Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, this shuttle service can accommodate your needs. They also offer door-to-door service, making it easy to get to and from the airports.
San Jose Airporter
If you prefer a more personalized and private shuttle experience, San Jose Airporter is an excellent choice. They provide a range of vehicles, including SUVs, sedans, and vans, to cater to different group sizes.
Their professional drivers are knowledgeable about the area and can navigate the traffic with ease. With San Jose Airporter, you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free journey between SJC and OAK.
Marin Door to Door Airport Shuttle
If you are located in Marin County and need transportation between SJC and OAK, Marin Door to Door Airport Shuttle is the perfect option. They offer reliable and efficient shuttle services, ensuring that you arrive at the airport on time.
Their experienced drivers know the best routes to avoid congestion and make your journey as smooth as possible. With Marin Door to Door Airport Shuttle, you can relax and enjoy the ride.
When choosing an airport shuttle service, it is essential to consider factors such as cost, convenience, and reliability. All the mentioned shuttle services have a good reputation and provide excellent customer service.
It is recommended to book your shuttle in advance to secure your spot and avoid any last-minute inconvenience. So sit back, relax, and let the airport shuttles take you from SJC to OAK or vice versa.
Comparing Transportation Options
Travel Time
When it comes to traveling between San Jose Airport and Oakland Airport, the travel time is an important factor to consider. The fastest option is taking a direct flight, which can get you from one airport to the other in just under an hour.
However, if you prefer ground transportation, the travel time can vary depending on the option you choose. Taking a shuttle or a shared ride service can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
On the other hand, using public transportation such as buses or trains can take longer, typically around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the route and any transfers required.
Convenience
Convenience is another crucial aspect to consider when deciding on your transportation option. If you value convenience and want a hassle-free experience, a direct flight is the most convenient option. However, if you prefer ground transportation, the convenience factor varies.
Taking a shuttle or a shared ride service can be convenient as they provide door-to-door service, but you may have to wait for other passengers or deal with multiple stops. Public transportation, while cost-effective, may require you to walk to the nearest transit station and navigate through transfers, which can be less convenient, especially if you have heavy luggage.
Cost
Cost is an important consideration for many travelers. When comparing transportation options between San Jose Airport and Oakland Airport, it’s important to consider the cost of each option. Direct flights can be more expensive, especially during peak travel times.
On the other hand, using ground transportation options like shuttles or shared ride services can be more cost-effective, especially if you’re traveling alone or with a small group. Public transportation, such as buses or trains, often offer the most affordable option, but keep in mind that the travel time may be longer.
Schedule Flexibility
Schedule flexibility is another factor to consider when choosing your transportation option. If you have a tight schedule and need to arrive at a specific time, a direct flight may be the most convenient option as it offers fixed departure and arrival times.
However, if you have a more flexible schedule, ground transportation options like shuttles or shared ride services can provide more flexibility as they offer multiple departure times throughout the day.
Public transportation, while affordable, may have fixed schedules and limited frequency, so it’s important to plan your journey accordingly.
Tips for Getting Between SJC and OAK
Allow Extra Time During Commute Hours
When traveling between San Jose Airport (SJC) and Oakland Airport (OAK), it’s important to consider the traffic conditions during peak commute hours. Both airports are located in the San Francisco Bay Area, which is known for its heavy traffic.
To avoid any potential delays, it’s recommended to allow extra time for your journey, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. By giving yourself some buffer time, you can ensure a stress-free transfer between the two airports.
Consider Total Trip Duration
It’s essential to consider the total duration of your trip when planning your transfer between SJC and OAK. While the distance between the two airports is approximately 35 miles, factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and mode of transportation can significantly impact the travel time.
For instance, taking a shuttle or driving during non-peak hours might be quicker compared to public transportation options like trains or buses. Therefore, it’s advisable to check the estimated travel time for each mode of transport and choose the one that suits your schedule and preferences.
Book Shuttles in Advance
If you prefer a hassle-free transfer between SJC and OAK, consider booking a shuttle service in advance. Numerous shuttle companies operate in the Bay Area, offering convenient and reliable transportation options.
By pre-booking your shuttle, you can avoid waiting times and ensure that you have a comfortable ride between the two airports. Additionally, some shuttle services offer perks like Wi-Fi and charging ports, making your journey more enjoyable.
Check Train and Bus Schedules
For budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer public transportation, checking the train and bus schedules is crucial. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system operates train services connecting various cities, including San Jose and Oakland.
Additionally, several bus companies provide routes between the two airports. It’s advisable to check the schedules in advance to plan your journey accordingly. Keep in mind that train and bus frequencies may vary depending on the day of the week and time of day.
For more information on shuttle services, train schedules, and bus routes between SJC and OAK, you can visit https://www.flysanjose.com and https://www.oaklandairport.com.
Conclusion
Getting between San Jose and Oakland airports is fairly straightforward with the variety of transportation choices available. The fastest and most convenient option for most travelers is taking the direct BART train, but driving yourself or booking an airport shuttle are solid alternatives depending on your circumstances.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan your route ahead of time, allow for extra time during busy commute hours, and consider the total duration of your trip. With the right planning, you can easily navigate between SJC and OAK and reach your final Bay Area destination.
