Just six miles to the south of Sunnyvale is San Jose International Airport. Located in the midst of Silicon Valley, close to major technology firms such as Google, Apple and Intel, this airport served more than eight million passengers in 2009. All the major American airlines serve this airport, including American Airlines, Continental, Delta, United and US Airways. The airport has two terminals with parking garages at each, and long-term parking. As of January 2011, parking in the garages cost $1 per 20 minutes with a daily maximum of $30. Parking in the long-term lot costs $1 per 20 minutes with a daily maximum of $15. Shops, restaurants and bank services are available in both terminals. The airport is also equipped with free Wi-Fi throughout.
Twenty-six miles north of Sunnyvale is the San Francisco International Airport, situated on the western shore of San Francisco Bay. The airport calls itself the "gateway to the Pacific," serving more than 37 million passengers per year. The airport has four terminals arranged in a circle with an AirTran shuttle that transports people to the terminals. Options for parking include short-term, daily parking, long-term, a reserved parking lot and a cell phone parking lot where family and friends can wait for their arriving guests for free. The airport offers more than 40 eating establishments and more than 50 shopping options. For a culture break, travelers can explore photography exhibits, an aviation museum and library, or visit the aquarium at the airport.
Oakland, also 26 miles north of Sunnyvale but situated on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, is a low-key alternative to San Francisco's busy airport. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 2 for Southwest Airlines and Terminal 1 for all other airlines. Both terminals offer passengers food and shopping options, both before and after passing through security. Oakland offers hourly, daily, economy and premier parking options. An unexpected offering at the airport is a golf course with views of the East Bay.
About 55 miles south of Sunnyvale, close to the Pacific ocean, is the Monterey Peninsula airport. Four airlines serve the airport: American Eagle, Allegiant Air, United and US Airways to five destinations, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Denver. The airport offers short-term, premium, long-term and handicap parking. Travelers can dine at the Golden Tee Restaurant or choose from a cafe or snack bar for a quick bite. There is also one gift shop at the airport.
