Top rated cars in Oakland, CA
Let loose in Oakland
A colorful city brimming with music, art, and activism, Oakland’s scenic perch on the San Francisco Bay belies its energy. Whether you’re hitting up the nightlife in bustling Jack London Square, grabbing tasty dumplings in Chinatown, or soaking in the local culture, chances are Oakland will charm you.
When you’re done exploring vintage boutiques and dining in historic bars, head out to experience Northern California’s redwood forests, wine country, and the stunning Golden Gate Bridge.
Oakland favorites
The Town’s one-of-a-kind waterfront scene is both trendy and historic.
Lake Merritt
This former tidal lagoon in the heart of downtown has become one of Oakland downtown’s major attractions. Along a three-mile shoreline, you can enjoy beautiful gardens, watch light displays, or simply take in picturesque views of the city. Lake Merritt is also home to the nation’s oldest designated wildlife refuge.
Oakland Museum of California
Stroll through centuries of Californian art, history, and natural science at the Oakland Museum. Highlights include the Dorothea Lange archive and an exhibit on the state’s seven unique ecosystems.
Jack London Square
Once the heart of Oakland’s seaport operations, Jack London Square is now a dining, shopping, and entertainment destination that draws crowds all year long. Named for author Jack London, who grew up on the Oakland waterfront, it’s a happening place with an authentic Oakland vibe.
Top hosts in Oakland, CA
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Try car sharing in Oakland, CA
Hit the road
The Bay Area is full of excitement and beauty in every mile. Napa and Sonoma, and even Livermore Valley, are wine country central, featuring gorgeous vineyards, fancy wine tours, and fine dining. Oakland’s neighboring city of Berkeley is home to the University of California and the birthplace of the Free Speech Movement. A few hours’ drive up to the mountains will bring you to iconic natural sites like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe.
Book the perfect carReinhardt Redwood Regional Park
Just a few miles from downtown Oakland lies the East Bay’s largest remaining natural stand of coastal redwoods. Peaceful and awe-inspiring, it’s the perfect local attraction for a hike, a picnic, or wildlife viewing.
San Francisco
Just across the Bay Bridge, San Francisco is a foodie’s paradise that's also known for its charming neighborhoods and wealth of amazing attractions. A few stops to hit: Golden Gate Park, Baker Beach, China Beach, and round off your day trip with a visit to Alcatraz Island to tour the notorious prison.
Half Moon Bay
With stunning beaches and great local seafood, Half Moon Bay offers an oceanside getaway from the bustling metropolises of the Bay Area. Stroll along the sand and visit the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, and if you’re lucky, the fog won’t spoil an epic sunset.
Recent reviews
This was a great option for me when my flight was changed to arrive after the car rental counter closed at the Oakland Airport.
Everything was great and so much better than renting with the usual car rental companies.
He communicated well before the trip and was kind enough to pick me up at Oakland airport.
Excellent vehicle, nice to drive, far better price and value than any standard car rental company!
Dwayne was very polite and the pick up address was only 4 miles from the Oakland International airport- which made the logistics and cab fare great to pick up the car.
Jose saved our trip for a last minute car rental from an inconvenience from our previous rental.
Car was cleaner and in better shape than the one I got through the rental companies
Mini Coop is great for San francisco/Oakland area because it is hard find a parking and with the rising gas prices the Coop is an excellent choice.
Austin was very accommodating, and the rental process was easy and smooth.
Alex made this rental process easy and was quick to answer all of my questions.
Was waiting when we arrived in Oakland and when we were ready to depart.
Took the time to walk me through the Turo rental process as well as any features in the car!
We have rented several cars using turo and other rental companies and Jerry’s car was by far the best.
Nice car to ride around in Oakland California it does not bring attention and runs good.
Rydes was responsive, flexible about extending my reservation, and the car was clean and comfortable.
Rental process went smoothly and Lauren was very easy to communicate and work with.
Great reliable vehicle for my commute between Walnut Creek and Oakland.
Lovely car to get around in and very easy pick up & drop off from Oakland airport!
I ran into an issue getting out of the Oakland parking, and the response was immediate and very helpful.
Easy check in, and Aminah was kind with fantastic communication. 14/10 will rent this car when I'm next in Oakland!
My host Isaiah and my trip with his Subaru Impreza 2016 - I had a wonderful trip in and around Oakland and the East Bay area!
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Best Oakland driving roads
San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge
The Bay Bridge spans from Oakland to San Francisco may not always be the most relaxing drive, especially during rush hour traffic, but it’s a breathtaking way to enter either city with views of the bay and city skylines. Halfway across, stop at Treasure Island: an artificial island built for the 1939 World’s Fair.
Grizzly Peak
Find the perfect vehicle, fuel up, and head up Centennial Drive to Grizzly Peak Blvd for a scenic road that snakes through the hills of the East Bay on its way to marvelous Grizzly Peak. Be sure to stop at the vista points for incredible views of the bay.
Wildcat Canyon Rd
Head into the Berkeley Hills for panoramic views of Oakland and San Francisco, then follow Wildcat Canyon Rd through Tilden Park for more scenic spots. For the full experience, keep going until you reach Inspiration Point, where you’ll be able to snap a picture worth 1,000 words.