Introduction
Oakland, California, may be best known for its lively arts scene and beautiful views of the Bay, but once the sun sets, the city reveals a much darker side. With deep roots in Gold Rush history, Prohibition-era crime, and local legends, Oakland and the greater Bay Area are home to eerie roads and mysterious landmarks that thrill-seekers can explore after dark. From haunted highways that locals avoid at night to cemeteries where ghostly figures are said to wander, the East Bay is full of destinations for those brave enough to hit the road in search of the supernatural. Even local ghost tours have highlighted the chilling history hidden in plain sight across Oakland and beyond (Haunted Bay Area tours).
Exploring these haunted roads isn’t just about thrills—it’s about adventure. And if you’re confident behind the wheel, these drives become even more exciting under the cover of night.
Spooky Drive List
1. Redwood Road
Winding through the Oakland Hills, Redwood Road is one of the city’s most famous eerie drives. At night, the towering redwoods cast shadows that play tricks on your vision, and some drivers claim to have seen ghostly figures dart across the road. Locals whisper about phantom headlights that appear suddenly and then vanish without explanation. To experience the full effect, start your drive near Joaquin Miller Park (3300 Joaquin Miller Rd, Oakland, CA) and continue deep into the redwood forest.
2. Mountain View Cemetery
Located at 5000 Piedmont Avenue, Oakland, CA, this massive cemetery designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the landscape architect behind Central Park) is said to be haunted by countless restless spirits. Nighttime visitors have reported flickering lights, strange mists, and even voices carried on the wind. Driving past the cemetery gates at night is enough to give anyone chills, especially under the glow of a full moon.
3. Manual Driving Academy – Master the Night Drive
For those who want to feel completely confident exploring Oakland’s haunted routes, booking a lesson with Manual Driving Academy is a perfect idea. Learning to handle a stick shift on winding, hilly, and sometimes eerie Oakland roads will give you the control you need in spooky driving conditions. Gift certificates are available and never expire, making this both a fun and practical way to prepare for any nighttime adventure. Book a lesson here.
4. Alameda Naval Air Station (10 minutes from Oakland)
Just across the water in Alameda lies the decommissioned Naval Air Station Alameda. Many claim it’s haunted, with ghostly sailors still wandering the abandoned hangars and old runways. The drive down West Ranger Avenue to the base at night feels otherworldly, with ocean fog rolling in and abandoned military buildings looming around you.
5. Devil’s Slide (45 minutes from Oakland)
For those up for a longer night drive, head down the coast on Highway 1 to the infamous Devil’s Slide area near Pacifica. Known for its steep cliffs and history of fatal crashes, the road has a reputation for phantom cars, ghostly hitchhikers, and a heavy, unsettling energy. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Oakland, making it an extended spooky adventure for thrill-seekers.
Conclusion
Oakland’s haunted history and eerie landscapes make it a top spot for night drives that are both spooky and unforgettable. Whether you’re cruising Redwood Road, passing the haunted gates of Mountain View Cemetery, or venturing farther out to Devil’s Slide, these routes promise an adrenaline rush like no other.
For those who want to sharpen their skills before tackling the dark and winding roads of Oakland, Manual Driving Academy offers the perfect solution. Lessons ensure you’re confident behind the wheel—whether navigating ghostly highways or busy city streets. Book your lesson today at Manual Driving Academy Oakland and get ready to explore the haunted side of the Bay.
