Originally Posted by
CMK10
I walked the half mile from the train station and it didn't seem unsafe but it's not the greatest place to spend time.
Compared to what? It's reasonably safe, and there are numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, including the bay area's premier jazz venue, Yoshi's. It's also freeway convenient and a very short drive to OAK. Plus you're right on the water, with nice views across the bay.
Originally Posted by
CMK10
12th Street/Oakland Downtown BART station is about .7 miles away and there are a bunch of buses around here too. It's easy to get different places in the Bay from here but it's not the best for going into The City.
You left out the direct ferry service to SF. The frequency is good and it's only a 30 minute ride. Certainly more pleasant than being jammed into a packed BART car or stuck in the bay bridge toll plaza.
San Francisco Bay Ferry
I wouldn't necessarily recommend this hotel, but there's arguably no better area to stay in the east bay than Jack London Square.