Patio at Oakland's Temescal Brewing.

Oakland, California, is the ultimate destination for those who love urban adventure. As San Francisco’s sister city, it’s known for its amity, vibrancy, and spunk. Whenever I visit, I always learn something new about what keeps the city’s heart beating loud and clear.

Here’s how to experience the liveliness of the bright side of the Bay.

How to Get There

The easiest and fastest way to get to Oakland from San Diego is by hopping on a plane. Thankfully, Southwest Airlines offers nonstop flights.

If you prefer to drive, pack your bags for an 8-hour road trip.

Where to Stay

Look no further than a room at The Moxy, Oakland’s newest lifestyle hotel.

It’s situated in the middle of the Arts and Entertainment District and surrounded by trendy restaurants, theaters, and art galleries. The Moxy boasts comfortable, well-appointed rooms for solo travelers and families alike.

Upon check-in, enjoy a complimentary beverage at the bar in the open-concept lobby, which has garage doors that retract and encourage guests to mingle. The colorful lounge offers lots of seating options, and the second-floor terrace has ping-pong tables and more space to relax.

Where to Eat and Drink

Café van Kleef - Bar Interior

All settled and in search of something to eat and or drink? Oakland’s best-kept secret is their phenomenal food scene. Treat yourself to cocktails and tapas at Sobre Mesa, a renowned Afro-Latino lounge that truly is a neighborhood gem. Chef Nelson German will take great care of you; he personally checks in with all of his customers.

Alternatively, grab a greyhound (vodka and freshly squeezed grapefruit) at Café van Kleef or savor a beer on Temescal Brewing’s outdoor patio. Beer and carbohydrates are the perfect combination. The best mac n’ cheese of your life can be found at Homeroom, down the street from Temescal Brewing. Homeroom's “tikka mac-sala” is Indian-fusion heaven.

Homeroom - Tikka Mac-sala

I recommend eating breakfast at Daughter’s Diner, but don’t leave without trying their homemade ice cream!

What to Do

Oakland is one of the most walkable cities in the U.S. and is best experienced on foot. Devote a few hours to strolling around downtown/uptown while admiring beautiful murals and Art Deco buildings (especially City Hall, the Tribune Tower, and the Fox Theater).

There are hidden adventures everywhere you turn. Support local businesses by visiting the Grand Lake Farmers Market, Oaktown Spice Shop, and Alkali Rye.

If you’re blessed with a sunny day, check out Lake Merritt and go kayaking or head to Jack London Square and walk along the oceanfront promenade.

Closing Thoughts

Oakland lives up to its “love life” motto and certainly holds its own beside San Francisco. Each neighborhood goes above and beyond to foster a sense of community.

There's much more to explore in the Bay Area, and I can’t wait to return!