Oakland International Airport (OAK) serves the greater San Francisco Bay Area with two terminals. If you’re flying Southwest, here’s what you need to know.
Oakland Airport’s Terminal 2 is exclusively used by Southwest Airlines for its domestic flights. That means if you’re flying into or out of Oakland on Southwest, you’ll be in Terminal 2.
This guide gives you a complete overview of Oakland Airport Terminal Southwest, including where to find the gates, security checkpoints, restaurants, and other amenities.
Navigating Oakland Airport Terminal 2: An Overview
Oakland International Airport (OAK) is easy to navigate, but here are a few things to keep in mind as you head to Terminal 2:
Airlines Served
If you’re flying Southwest, you’re in luck! Southwest is the only airline that operates out of Terminal 2, which makes the whole experience more streamlined.
Location and Accessibility
The address for Oakland International Airport is 1 Airport Drive, Oakland, CA 94621. The airport is open 24/7, but keep in mind that individual restaurants and vendors may have limited hours.
Connecting to Terminal 1
Need to get to Terminal 1? No problem. After you go through security, you can use the connector to get to the gates in Terminal 1.
Dining at OAK Terminal 2
If you’re flying Southwest out of Oakland International Airport (OAK), you’ll be in Terminal 2. Luckily, you have quite a few choices when it comes to grabbing a bite or a drink before your flight.
Terminal 2 has a mix of restaurants, bars, and cafes to suit different tastes and budgets. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll find:
- Andale: Mexican food.
- Pyramid Brewing: Brewpub with a food menu.
- East Bay Cafe: Quick bites and coffee.
- Peet’s Coffee: Coffee, tea, and pastries.
- Vino Volo: Wine bar with small plates.
- Bar 510: Cocktails, beer, and appetizers.
- Subway: Sandwiches and salads.
Shopping at Oakland Airport’s Terminal 2
If you’re flying Southwest through Oakland International Airport (OAK), you’ll find yourself in Terminal 2. While it’s not a sprawling retail paradise, Terminal 2 offers a decent selection of shops for travel essentials and last-minute gifts. You can pick up those forgotten toiletries, grab a magazine for the flight, or snag a sweet treat before you board.
Here’s a quick rundown of the shops you’ll find:
- Newsstands (for reading material and travel basics)
- Sunglass Icon
- See’s Candies
- InMotion (electronics)
- TechZoom (electronics)
- Sports Scene
So, whether you need a new pair of shades or a box of chocolates, Terminal 2 has you covered.
Relaxation and activities around Terminal 2
Flying can be stressful, so it’s nice to know that Oakland International Airport offers a few ways to relax or pass the time while you’re waiting for your flight.
Escape Lounge access
If you want to treat yourself to a quieter, more luxurious experience, you can access the Escape Lounge, located in Terminal 1, from Terminal 2. Admission to the lounge is $45, but you can save $5 by booking online ahead of time.
Art and culture
Oakland Airport showcases rotating art exhibits and permanent public art pieces throughout its terminals. If aviation is your thing, you may also want to check out the Oakland Aviation Museum, located on the airport grounds.
Wi-Fi availability
The airport offers free Wi-Fi access for 45 minutes if you’re willing to sit through a commercial first.
What services are available at Terminal 2?
If you’re flying Southwest out of Oakland’s Terminal 2, here’s what you need to know:
- Security Checkpoints: You can use the security checkpoint for either terminal, even if your gate is in Terminal 1.
- ATMs: ATMs are available if you need to withdraw cash.
- Restrooms: Restrooms, including baby-changing stations, are easily accessible.
- Pet Relief Areas: Designated pet relief areas are available for passengers traveling with animals.
Putting It All Together
This article’s goal was to give you a helpful guide to navigating Oakland International Airport’s Terminal 2, where Southwest Airlines operates.
As you plan your trip, remember to arrive at least two hours before your flight, especially if you’re traveling during a busy time of year. Take advantage of the terminal’s shops, restaurants, and other services to make your trip more enjoyable.
For the latest information on flight schedules, security updates, and airport amenities, be sure to check the official Oakland International Airport website before you head to the airport.