Things to do in North California: Oakland/Berkeley/San Francisco/Palo Alto/San Jose?

Hi, I'm planning on a short road trip around California.

I'll spend 1 day in Oakland, San Francisco, Palo Alto and San Jose.

I heard that it's not safe in Oakland, but I need to stay 1 night around there (not in SF). Is Berkeley - Emeryville area better? and I'm probably arriving there late, what area should I avoid?

My plan for that day is: From Yosemite -%26gt; Stay in Oakland -%26gt;7am-11am visit Oakland and Berkeley -%26gt;11am-4pm visit San Francisco -%26gt; 4pm visit Palo Alto and Standford, Stay in San Jose



Can anybody suggest some worth seeing places to visit? (No shopping malls) Thank you very much for your help!Things to do in North California: Oakland/Berkeley/San Francisco/Palo Alto/San Jose?
the haight on haight st is pretty cool and

golden gate park is supper big and pretty

china town is cool

the castro is cool (lots of friendly gay ppl )

any of these spots are good for sf during the hrs you would be spending there 11till 4Things to do in North California: Oakland/Berkeley/San Francisco/Palo Alto/San Jose?
Here is a hotel you can stay in the Emeryville-Oakland area that is safe.



http://www.jacklondoninn.com/



Oakland, Berkeley and Emeryville are all next to each other.



I stayed at this place in Palo Alto and met many Stanford visitors.



http://www.hotelcalifornia.com/



Do you want recommendations for San Francisco and are you driving?