- Must visit
Oakland Museum of California
Major art museum focused on California history, art, and social impact, with strong collections and a lively modern campus.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$29
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$45
Fastest journey on Sep 05
2 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
2 h 36 m
Buses on Sep 05
2
Distance
137 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 2 buses from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 137 km distance in an average of 2 h 36 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 30 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 2 h 41 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
1:15 AM2h30Salinas, CA3:45 AMOakland, CA$291One-way0 transfers
10:15 PM2h41Salinas, CA12:56 AMOakland, CA$601One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 AM2h30Salinas, CA3:45 AMOakland, CA$291One-way0 transfers
- 10:15 PM2h41Salinas, CA12:56 AMOakland, CA$601One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $30 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 2h 59m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, while a train costs an average of $50.
Distance: 85 miles (137 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price Cheapest | $50 Average price | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 59m Average total duration Fastest 2h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 23m Average total duration 2h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA is a bus with an average price of $30.
This is compared to other travel options from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA:
A bus is $20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA costing on average $50.
The fastest way to travel from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 29m.
Other travel options to Oakland, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salinas, CA and Oakland, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15AM | Arrival Time 03:45AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 05:06AM | Duration 3h26 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 08:03PM | Duration 4h48 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 09:06PM | Duration 3h26 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 12:56AM | Duration 2h41 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 01:56AM | Duration 2h41 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $60 |
Live departures
Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA buses for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:15 PM Salinas, CA | 2h41 | 12:56 AM Oakland, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:15 PM Salinas, CA | 2h41 | 1:56 AM Oakland, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, August 30 | |||||
| 1:15 AM Salinas, CA | 2h30 | 3:45 AM Oakland, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:49, the last at 18:05. The fastest bus covers the 85 miles (137 km) distance in 2h 25m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 85 miles (137 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 2h 25m |
First bus 6:49 AM |
Last bus 6:05 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 3 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Complete guide to Oakland, CA
Things to do in Oakland, CA
Discover the best of Oakland, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oakland, CA trip today.
- Recommended
The Black Panther Party Museum
Independent museum preserving Black Panther Party history through photographs, artifacts, and community-centered interpretation in West Oakland.
- Recommended
Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA)
Children's museum and cultural center with hands-on exhibits celebrating Black creativity, history, and family learning experiences.
- Must visit
Lake Merritt
Beloved urban lake ringed by paths, gardens, and skyline views, ideal for walking, birdwatching, and experiencing everyday Oakland life.
- Must visit
Jack London Square
Waterfront promenade and marina district with bay views, sailing activity, and sunset walks near Oakland's western edge.
- Recommended
Joaquin Miller Park
Large hillside park with redwoods, trails, and picnic areas, offering a peaceful escape and classic East Bay outdoor scenery.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Brisket
Smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, reflecting Oakland’s strong barbecue culture shaped by Southern Black migration and longtime neighborhood smokehouses.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Coleslaw
A tangy, mayo-based cabbage side commonly served with Oakland barbecue. It is a staple pairing at local smokehouses and cookouts.
Fried Chicken
Crisp fried chicken often served with waffles or sides, tied to Oakland’s soul food tradition and beloved at classic neighborhood restaurants.
Commis
Refined tasting-menu restaurant highlighting seasonal California ingredients with polished service and an elegant, modern dining room.
Cafe Colucci
Longtime Ethiopian restaurant praised for injera platters, stews, and traditional coffee in a welcoming, community-focused space.
Shan Dong Restaurant
Celebrated Oakland Chinatown destination for handmade noodles and dumplings in a busy, casual setting with strong local following.
United States Dollar ($)
Oakland is moderate for US cities: lodging is often high, but dining and BART or buses are usually cheaper than in San Francisco.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA can start from as little as $24 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA is $30 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA is 2h 25m to travel the 85 miles (137 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 6:49 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA leaves at 6:05 PM.
When departing from Salinas, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Salinas, Greyhound . When arriving in Oakland, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Salinas, Greyhound, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Oakland, CA from Salinas, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salinas, CA and Oakland, CA including taking a train and bus.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
No, the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA has no accessibility options.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Oakland, CA are:
- Lake Merritt, a large tidal lagoon offering scenic walking paths and boating activities
- Oakland Museum of California, a museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural sciences of California
- Jack London Square, a waterfront area with dining, shopping, and entertainment options
- Redwood Regional Park, a vast park with hiking trails through towering redwood trees
- Chabot Space and Science Center, an interactive museum with planetarium shows and telescopes for stargazing.
The best things to do in Oakland, CA include:
- Visit the vibrant Temescal Alley, known for its unique shops and eateries
- Explore the historic USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's "Floating White House"
- Enjoy a performance at the Fox Theater, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace
- Discover the diverse flavors at the Oakland First Fridays street festival
- Take a scenic bike ride along the Bay Trail, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA.
Since neither Salinas, CA nor Oakland, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Oakland, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, including pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs. Avoid displaying valuables openly and park in well-lit, secure areas. Scams such as fake ticket sellers or overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers have been reported. Staying alert, using official transportation services, and verifying ticket purchases online can help ensure a safer experience.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA
Most Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA buses use the Salinas, Greyhound to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Salinas, CA and Oakland, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Salinas
Arrival bus stations in Oakland
Which Salinas, CA station do buses to Oakland, CA leave from?
Buses from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA leave from Salinas, Greyhound. The station is from Salinas, CA city centre at Salinas, 11 Station Pl, Salinas, CA 93901, USA.
Salinas, GreyhoundSalinas, 11 Station Pl, Salinas, CA 93901, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Salinas, Greyhound from Salinas city centre
Bus29, 59 · 16m · $4 · every ~1 min
29, 59 · 17m · $4 · every ~1 min
29, 59 · 17m · $4 · every ~1 min
Salinas, Greyhound bus station facilities and services
Salinas, Greyhound has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Salinas, Greyhound. ATMs are available at Salinas, Greyhound.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Salinas, Greyhound.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Salinas, Greyhound: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Salinas, Greyhound: Station is accessible to wheelchair users.
Which Oakland, CA station do buses from Salinas, CA arrive at?
Buses from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA most often arrive at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. Some services arrive at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Oakland, CA arrival station.
Oakland, West Oakland BART StationW Oakland BART, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station from Oakland city centre
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station is 2 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:
SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station bus station facilities and services
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. ATMs are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Station is fully accessible with elevators.
Most popular bus connections from Salinas, CA
More options for your journey from Salinas, CA to Oakland, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Oakland, CA and Salinas, CA
Most popular bus connections to Oakland, CA
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