For our out-of-town guests, there are two primary airports you can fly into. Both are roughly the same distance from our hotel blocks in Emeryville, but the travel experience differs.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Pros: It is significantly smaller and easier to navigate than SFO. Security lines are shorter, and the walk from the gate to the curb is much faster. It is located entirely in the East Bay, meaning you avoid the $7 bridge toll and the unpredictable traffic of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.
Cons: Fewer direct flights from some states.
Best For: Guests flying Southwest (OAK is a major hub) or those who want a stress-free arrival.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Pros: You are much more likely to find a direct, competitively priced flight here. If you're planning a vacation, landing at SFO gives you that iconic "flying over the Golden Gate Bridge" view.
Cons: It is a massive airport. Between the AirTrain and long security lines, give yourself an extra hour. To get to the hotels in Emeryville, you must cross the Bay Bridge, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the time of day.
Best For: Guests looking for the cheapest/most direct flight options or those starting their vacation in San Francisco before heading to the East Bay.
Pro-Tips for Your Travels
Rideshare: Both airports have dedicated App-Based Ride (Uber/Lyft) pickup zones. From OAK to Emeryville, expect a 20-minute ride. From SFO to Emeryville, expect 35–60 minutes depending on bridge traffic.
Public Transit: If you’re feeling adventurous, both airports are connected to BART (our subway system). You can take BART directly to the MacArthur Station, which is just a short Uber or free "Emery Go-Round" shuttle ride from the hotels.
Traffic: "Traffic" here hits differently. If you are landing at SFO between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM on a weekday, the bridge will be a parking lot. If you can, try to land mid-day!