The Oakland California Temple is one of the most recognizable temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Perched high in the Oakland Hills with sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay, it was the second temple built in California and the 13th dedicated temple of the Church. Its distinctive five-spire design, illuminated at night, has made it one of the Bay Area's most recognizable landmarks since its dedication in 1964.
A Brief History
President David O. McKay announced the Oakland California Temple on January 23, 1961 after decades of planning to serve the rapidly growing Church membership in Northern California. Church leaders had identified the prominent hillside location years earlier, recognizing its commanding view over the Bay Area and its accessibility for members throughout the region.
Groundbreaking services were held on May 26, 1962, with President McKay presiding. Following a 26-day public open house from October 5–31, 1964, President McKay dedicated the temple during multiple sessions held November 17–19, 1964, making it the 13th dedicated temple of the Church. Despite suffering a severe stroke only months earlier, President McKay attended the dedication and offered the dedicatory prayer, making the occasion especially memorable.
After more than five decades of service, the temple closed in February 2018 for an extensive renovation that included seismic upgrades, restoration of the original Art Deco-inspired design, and modernization of the interior. Following a 21-day public open house in 2019, President Dallin H. Oaks rededicated the temple on June 16, 2019.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Oakland California Temple is instantly recognizable because of its five-spire design, making it the first temple in the Church to feature five spires. The architecture incorporates Art Deco, mid-century modern, and Asian-inspired design elements, reflecting the cultural diversity of the San Francisco Bay Area. Its reinforced concrete exterior is faced with Sierra white granite, giving the temple its brilliant appearance.
The temple contains approximately 80,157 square feet and features four instruction rooms, seven sealing rooms, and a baptistry. When originally built, it became the first temple in the United States designed specifically for film presentation of the endowment and the first with multiple instruction rooms connected to a central celestial room.
The beautifully landscaped 18-acre grounds include fountains, waterfalls, reflection pools, towering palm trees, colorful gardens, and panoramic views stretching across the Bay to San Francisco. The temple complex also includes an Interstake Center and one of the Church's most popular Visitors' Centers, featuring a replica of Bertel Thorvaldsen's Christus statue and exhibits about Jesus Christ and temples.
Visiting the Temple
The Oakland California Temple is located at 4770 Lincoln Avenue in Oakland, California. It features a Visitors' Center, an arrival center, and patron housing, making it one of the few temples to offer these services. The Visitors' Center is open daily to the public and includes interactive exhibits, a beautiful Christus statue, and breathtaking views of the Bay Area. The temple grounds are also open year-round and are especially popular during the Christmas season when thousands of lights decorate the property. There is no distribution center on site, though one is located nearby.
Fun Facts
- Second temple built in California.
- 13th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on January 23, 1961.
- Groundbreaking held on May 26, 1962.
- Dedicated by President David O. McKay on November 17–19, 1964.
- Rededicated by President Dallin H. Oaks on June 16, 2019.
- Public open house lasted 26 days in 1964 and 21 days following renovation in 2019.
- Built on an 18.1-acre property.
- Approximately 80,157 square feet.
- Features four instruction rooms, seven sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- First temple in the Church with five spires.
- First temple in the United States designed for film presentation of the endowment.
- Includes a Visitors' Center, arrival center, and patron housing.
Final Thoughts
The Oakland California Temple is one of the Church's most iconic temples, combining remarkable architecture, rich history, and spectacular views overlooking the San Francisco Bay. Its unique design, beautiful grounds, and welcoming Visitors' Center make it a favorite destination for both temple patrons and visitors from around the world. Whether you're attending the temple or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, the Oakland California Temple is an unforgettable stop on any temple journey.
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