The Alameda center point is approximately the area of Downtown Alameda and the area of Fruitvale.
As part of the Bay Area, Alameda is a great place to visit regardless of the season. Summers are warm and dry, with average temperatures hovering around 71 degrees. Keep in mind, though, that summer marks the peak tourist season in the Bay Area, and many travelers come into Alameda and nearby communities to take advantage of competitive hotel rates outside of San Francisco. Because of this, hotels tend to raise their prices, so you'd better book months in advance if you hope to score a good deal.
July marks the annual Alameda Art & Wine Faire as well as the popular Fillmore Street Jazz Festival in San Francisco.
Waiting to travel in the fall can help you save money on your trip to Alameda. Hotel rates drop and tourist crowds taper off starting in September, but you'll still enjoy pleasant weather and sunny skies. Since the temperatures tend to remain in the 70s, fall is a great time to experience the Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach, a local haven for wind surfers and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter brings chilly winds to the Bay Area, but if you don't mind packing a few layers, you can find some incredible hotel rates in Alameda during the off season. Alameda hosts a wonderful Winter Market in January, with arts and crafts, antiques, and culinary delights. There are also plenty of indoor attractions in the Bay Area to bring you in from the cold.
Booking a trip from March through May means beating the tourist rush and landing great hotel rates. Temperatures fall into the mid-60s, so you won't likely want to participate in any water sports, but booking your vacation during the spring can help you offset costs. You can also visit the San Francisco International Film Festival and the two-day, family-oriented Carnaval San Francisco.
If you know where to look, you can save even more money during your trip to Alameda by taking advantage of discounts. Most area hotels, including Comfort Inn & Suites, offer money-saving discounts to seniors, AARP members, AAA/CAA members, military families, government employees, corporate travelers, and rewards members. Simply book the special rate and provide proof of eligibility at check-in to save as much as 20 percent off the hotel's best available rates.
Other properties, such as The Jack London Inn in Oakland, offer special discounts throughout the year. These specials may include staying three nights and getting as much as 15 percent off the standard rates. You may also be able to save up to 10 percent by booking your room in advance.
Higher-end properties like Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham-Oakland/Alameda often offer package deals catered to various travel styles. Opting for a romance package could entitle you to a bottle of local wine and chocolates upon your arrival, while a wedding package might come with a complimentary room upgrade.
Alameda offers several mid-range properties that give you plenty of value for your dollar. Extended Stay America – Oakland – Alameda Airport is situated just two-and-a-half miles from the Oakland International Airport. Guest rooms consist of studio suites offering free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, work desks, pull-out sofas, and kitchenettes. Enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast, a free airport shuttle service, a 24-hour coin-operated laundry, and a fitness room. Pets are also welcome for an additional fee.
On the upper island, Extended Stay America – Oakland – Alameda overlooks Oakland Inner Harbor three miles from Jack London Square. The low-key guest studios offer kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, and kids under 17 stay free with a paying adult family member. There's also an on-site fitness room, a 24-hour laundry facility, and free parking. (This is a different Extended Stay location from the Airport property described above.)
Set just a block from Crown Beach, Coral Reef Inn & Suites is a low-rise hotel less than five miles from the Alameda ferry and Oakland Airport. Guest rooms offer private patios or balconies, mini-fridges, coffee makers, microwaves, TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy an on-site business center, an outdoor pool, health club passes, free parking, and a free breakfast buffet.
With so much to explore in the Bay Area, it's easy to overlook the wonderful museums Alameda offers. The USS Hornet Museum is a must-see museum ship displaying 200 years of the USS Hornet's naval history. Now a national historic landmark, the USS Hornet allows visitors to step back in time and explore sea, air, and space exhibits. Several guided tours are also available.
A unique attraction, the Pacific Pinball Museum displays a selection of around 100 playable pinball machines. The facility's aim is to preserve and promote pinball machines as an important aspect of American culture, which is why the museum encourages guests to play the machines after paying admission. The site also offers special exhibits and rotating murals, giving visitors something new to experience time and time again.
As you explore the Bay Area, you'll find everything you need for a memorable trip in Alameda. Whether you're looking for a waterfront hotel close to the beach or a budget-friendly property closer to the airport, you can find the perfect hotel in Alameda that meets your needs and budget.
Hotels in Alameda do not have to cost you an arm and a leg to enjoy what they have to offer during your trip. If you are looking for a traditional, family-friendly experience, then the Extended Stay America-Oakland- Alameda Hotel and Marina Village Inn are excellent choices for you. They offer comfortable apartments with a private bathroom and a kitchenette, a microwave, spa baths and refrigerators, making your stay enjoyable. Marina Village Inn is another great cheap hotel just for you. This award-winning motel offers in-house gym, a tour desk, luggage storage and a range of outdoor activities. These activities include; hiking, canoeing, and fishing. It is an easy drive from Oakland as well as, it provides an outdoor heated swimming pool. Each of these hotels offers a 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi services and a concierge. These are just a few cheap hotels you can find in Alameda. Whether the hotel is on the shore of an impressive lake or the hotel is located in the heart of the city, you are guaranteed to find the location you desire most. There are many hotels in Alameda to choose from, it just depends on how you wish to enjoy your time in the town.
If you have a taste for luxurious, more expensive hotels, then the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Alameda is an awesome choice just for you. This contemporary hotel is expediently situated within an easy drive to Oakland. You can also enjoy the additional services offered by the hotel, such as a Jacuzzi and outdoor tennis courts. Hampton Inn & Suites Oakland Airport-Alameda is also a great option. It is also conveniently located for travelers wishing to explore Oakland and Berkeley. Coral Reef Inn & Suites is another three-star hotel that offers great facilities and services. The area surrounding this hotel is well-known for its shopping.
If you prefer other affordable options, then Rodeway Inn Oakland-Alameda is a great choice just for you and your family. The hotel is fun and comfortable for the whole family, with kids enjoying the playground and adults can get to sightsee with the assistance of friendly staffs. Oakwood Oakland is another good choice that provides a comfortable setting while in Alameda. Each hotel is strategically positioned for travelers wishing to visit the region's local attractions. Make your stay memorable in Alameda by making the right choice.
Below are reviews of the city of Alameda, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Lots of cute shops and beautiful houses!
I liked that the boardwalk was in walking distance of the hotel. The staff was very friendly.
It's always a nice experience!
Cool weather and a great community. Has a real home town feel.
I enjoyed the small town feel combined with the big town restaurants, businesses and services.