Getting Around Hayward
As is the case in most of the United States, the easiest way to get to and around Hayward is by car. That said, visitors who prefer not to drive have several public transport options for both reaching the city and moving around once they arrive.
Rail: Amtrak and BART
Hayward is served by two separate rail systems, which play different roles for a visitor.
- Amtrak runs multiple trains per day on its Capital Corridor route, connecting Sacramento and San Jose via Oakland. Long-distance trains also call at the Hayward Amtrak station, located at 22555 Meekland Ave in the Burbank District.
- BART provides commuter rail service to Hayward on its Warm Springs/South Fremont–Daly City line, with two stops within the city limits: South Hayward at 28601 Dixon St and Hayward station at 699 B St. The Hayward station is within walking distance of many shops and restaurants in the city centre, making it the more convenient stop for a visitor heading downtown.
If your destination isn't right next to a BART station, note that the Bay Fair and Castro Valley BART stations are also nearby and may be useful alternatives depending on where you're going.
Buses and Other Public Transport
Hayward has several bus systems serving the city, and which one you use depends on where you're headed:
- AC Transit runs buses in Hayward, though these do not go to all parts of the city.
- All Nighter Bus Network also provides bus service in the area.
- Union City Transit serves the southern Hayward area along the Union City border.
- The HillHopper Bus System provides service to CSUEB (California State University, East Bay).
Note that SamTrans service to the area was discontinued in 1999, so don't count on it as an option.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
The source material does not describe taxi or ride-hailing services in Hayward. As in most U.S. cities, these are generally available, but you should confirm locally rather than relying on specifics here.
Walkability
Walking is a realistic option in parts of Hayward, particularly around the downtown Hayward BART station at 699 B St, which sits within walking distance of many shops and restaurants in the city centre. Elsewhere, the city is spread out and car-oriented, so expect to combine walking with another mode.
Traffic
Be aware that Hayward does have a lot of traffic in the Downtown area and on its highways, so build extra time into your plans if you're driving or taking a bus during busy periods.
Getting There by Plane
Hayward Executive Airport (HWD) is the local airport serving the city. The source material does not describe ground transport connections from the airport into Hayward, so plan your onward transfer in advance.