Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is much faster; driving is better for sightseeing.

How long is the train?

The Coast Starlight takes about 12 hours.

Are there direct flights?

Yes, multiple airlines offer direct flights from OAK to LAX.

Yes, it passes through beautiful coastal and mountain scenery.

What is the best airport in LA?

LAX is the largest, but BUR is often more convenient.

Oakland

Los Angeles

Train Flight

Oakland to Los Angeles

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance between Oakland and Los Angeles is approximately 400 miles. You can fly from Oakland International Airport (OAK) to LAX in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or take the scenic Amtrak Coast Starlight train, which takes about 12 hours. Driving via I-5 is another option, taking roughly 6-7 hours. Each mode offers a unique perspective of the California landscape.

Total Distance: 640 km driving distance; 570 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest method, taking just over an hour in the air.

Cheapest Way

Booking a flight in advance is often the cheapest and fastest way to travel.

Compare Oakland to Los Angeles Routes

	Train Direct	Flight Direct
Duration	12 hours	1 hour 15 mins
Avg Price	$60-$120	$80-$150
Operator	Amtrak Coast Starlight	Southwest Airlines
Route	Emeryville to Los Angeles Union Station.	OAK to LAX or BUR.
Tip	The train offers incredible coastal views; book a sleeper car for comfort.	Flying from OAK is often less stressful than flying from SFO.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Consider flying into Burbank (BUR) for easier access to Hollywood and North LA.
Train Booking
Book Amtrak tickets well in advance as they sell out quickly.
Traffic
LA traffic is legendary; always allow extra time for ground transport.
Packing
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring LA's diverse neighborhoods.
Sun Protection
The California sun is strong; wear sunscreen year-round.