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Oakland, CA, USA to Salinas, CA, USA from $4: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Oakland, United States of America
to
Salinas, United States of America

How to Get from Oakland to Salinas: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$4 by trainBest price
160 kmDistance
1h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oakland to Salinas with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service / Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$11-50
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  57m
Estimated price
$4-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 160 km
Duration: 1h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  43m
Estimated price
$18-26
Company
various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$115-116

Traveling From Oakland to Salinas

The journey from Oakland to Salinas offers a striking contrast, with Oakland's urban vibrancy and cultural diversity transitioning to Salinas' tranquil agricultural landscape and rich history.

Best Neighbourhoods in Salinas

Salinas is home to diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Old Town Salinas
• Charming historic architecture and vibrant arts scene.
• Great dining options featuring local cuisine.
North Salinas
• Family-friendly parks and recreational spaces abound.
• Close to shopping centers and community events.
West Salinas
• Offers stunning views of nearby mountains.
• Known for its agricultural heritage and farms.

Best Times To Visit Salinas's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Salinas's attractions.

National Steinbeck Center
Visit on weekdays to enjoy quieter galleries and special exhibits.
Salinas Valley Agricultural Museum
Mornings or early afternoons during spring offer fewer visitors and a peaceful tour.
Oldtown Salinas
Late afternoon on weekdays provides a relaxing atmosphere for dining and shopping.

Salinas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Salinas enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with cool summers and wet winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit. Understanding the weather patterns can help you pack appropriately and plan activities that align with seasonal highlights.

Dining Recommendation in Salinas

For a taste of Salinas, try the fresh clam chowder at The Fish Hopper, where coastal seafood shines through local ingredients, offering a seaside vibe that's distinctly different from Oakland's diverse culinary scene. This dining experience emphasizes simplicity and freshness, allowing you to savor the essence of the Central California coast.

Oakland - Salinas operators

Explore transport companies operating between Oakland and Salinas, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Emeryville to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$11-50

Bus from San Jose to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Oakland to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$11-50
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Oakland to Salinas

Average Duration
2h 57m
Estimated price
$4-80
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Subway from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$115-116

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Oakland to Salinas.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Oakland and Salinas is approximately 85 miles. If you prefer the train, it takes about 2 hours and 57 minutes to reach Salinas from Oakland. Alternatively, taking BART and then a bus can get you there in around 3 hours and 30 minutes. If you choose to drive by car, the travel time is approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Oakland to Salinas is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes, and the cost ranges from $18 to $26. Driving allows you to have the flexibility to travel at your own pace and gives you the convenience of direct transportation from one city to another without any transfers or wait times. Overall, driving is both the fastest and most budget-friendly option for this particular journey.
The prices for traveling from Oakland to Salinas by train range from $4 to $80. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket from Salinas to Oakland vary between $12 and $55. These prices may vary depending on the specific time and date of travel, as well as the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Oakland to Salinas without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 99 miles. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving from Oakland to Salinas by car can range from $18 to $26 for fuel expenses.
To travel from Oakland to Salinas without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and the ticket prices range from $12 to $55. There are several bus companies that operate this route, providing convenient and affordable transportation for travelers.
Yes, there is a direct link between Oakland and Salinas. You can take a train operated by Amtrak, which departs once daily from Oakland and arrives in Salinas in approximately 2 hours and 57 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus operated by Amtrak, which departs three times a day from Oakland and takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach Salinas. Both options provide convenient and direct transportation between the two cities.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Salinas. With over 163 hotels available, travelers can choose from a variety of options that suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Salinas start at $53 per night, making it affordable for budget-conscious travelers. Booking a hotel in advance is recommended to ensure availability and to secure the best rates.

Trips from Oakland