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 Hike, bike, or walk |
At the corner of Niles Canyon Road and Mission Boulevard Coyote Hills Regional Park San Francisco, CA 94538 United States +1 510 562 7275 http://www.ebparks.org |
This East Bay Regional Park trail runs for 12 miles along Alameda Creek, beginning in Fremont and ending at the San Francisco Bay. Throughout the course you'll visit Niles Canyon and Coyote Hills Regional Park, and go through parts of three east Bay towns, namely Fremont, Union City and Newark. The trails are frequented by cyclists, hikers and joggers, as well as horseback riders required to use a separate trail. The entire trail is filled with scenic views and diverse wildlife to enjoy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Darren Stueber |
 Photo: Darren Stueber |
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Rental, sales, lessons |
409 Water Street Jack London Square San Francisco, CA 94607 United States +1 510 893 2617 http://www.calkayak.com/ |
This water sports shop, conveniently located on the Oakland waterfront at Jack London Square, specializes in paddle sports such with a wide selection of canoes and whitewater, sea and recreational kayaks. In addition to selling used and new equipment, it offers rentals, lessons and repairs. For more than 20 years this company has been a reputable outlet for Bay Area water sports enthusiasts. Sign up for individual lessons and a knowledgeable and friendly instructor will train you at your own pace. Group classes are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fishing pier and windsurfing |
Corner of Gillman Avenue and Hunters Point Expressway San Francisco, CA 94124 United States +1 415 671 0145/ +1 916 653 6995 (office) http://www.parks.ca.gov |
This state park, located on the shoreline next to the San Francisco 49ers' 3Com Park, offers a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. In addition to great views of the San Francisco Bay, it features picnic and barbecue facilities, an exercise trail and a bike trail lined with California poppies. It also has two piers available with fishing and fish-cleaning facilities. Windharp Hill, which consists of permanent metal wind chimes and harps is what visitors usually remember about Candlestick Point. The park is popular with windsurfers (big winds, small waves) but is not recommended for beginners. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Education at the beach |
1252 McKay Avenue (Robert W. Crown Memorial Beach) San Francisco, CA 94501 United States +1 510 521 6887 http://www.ebparks.org |
Classrooms, camp groups, and children's clubs from around the Bay Area take trips here to learn all the roles of the marine and estuarine ecosystems and the importance of their preservation. It is located in a lush green park on the beach in the Island City of Alameda. In addition to museum-like marine wildlife displays, some interactive, the center offers the Old Wharf Classroom, where guests enjoy presentations on topics such as shoreline wildlife and the food chains of the San Francisco Bay. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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San Francisco Bay beach |
Eight Street at Otis Drive San Francisco, CA 94501 United States +1 510 562 7275 / +1 510 636 1684 (Reservations) http://www.ebparks.org |
Alameda, the Bay Area's island city just 5 minutes from the Bay Bridge, offers a 2-mile long beach with a variety of free attractions. Less foggy than San Francisco, this beach is bordered with grassy fields, a jogging path, bike trail, picnic facilities, tennis courts, baseball fields, a playground, bird sanctuary, and a naturalist and historical visitor center. In the summer it's ideal for windsurfing, and features a small shop open for rentals and lessons. The summer highlight is in June when the Alameda Recreation & Park Department hosts an annual sand castle contest. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Rappmund |
 Photo: Nick Khadder |
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Home of the Garin Apple Festival |
1320 Garin Avenue San Francisco, CA 94544 United States +1 510 636 1684 http://www.ebparks.org |
Picnic facilities, horseback riding and hiking trails, fishing in Jordan Pond - this park has a lot to offer. It is popular with naturalists with a variety of plant and animal wildlife to enjoy. The Garin Barn Visitor Center, open on weekends, offers programs for visitors to identify different species at their own leisure through pamphlets and displays. Additional displays teach about local history. Many enjoy the blacksmith shop and the antique farm equipment. In the late summer the park hosts an apple festival with folk music, games and, of course, apples. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yuki Khalyapin |
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Over a Thousand Acres |
Stanyan & Haight Streets San Francisco, CA 94118 United States +1 415 831 2700 http://www.sfgov.org/ |
In the late 1800s, a Scotsman named John McLaren transformed more than 1,000 acres of sand dunes into a wondrous haven in the midst of busy city life. Stretching from Stanyan Street to the Pacific Ocean, the lush landscaping features ever-changing settings at every turn. There are trails for walking, jogging, biking, horseback riding, as well as a golf course, lawn bowling greens, soccer fields and a baseball diamond. For those seeking less strenuous diversion, check out the California Academy of Sciences and an authentic Japanese Tea Garden. For families with children, there are playgrounds, a live buffalo reserve and a carousel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Raymond Tham |
 Photo: Yve Fontilea |
 Photo: Gerald Azenaro  |
 Photo: Scott Jungling |
 Photo: Scott Jungling |
 Photo: Darin Marshall |
 Photo: Kalyan Neelamraju |
 Photo: Andrew West |
 Photo: rabble |
 Photo: kenley sun |
 Photo: F. Baca |
 Photo: Erika Barnes |
 Photo: Andre Luckow |
 Photo: Frances |
 Photo: Jamie Ocain |
 Photo: Ajay Shekhawat |
 Photo: Steve Cohen |
 Photo: p3p510 |
 Photo: Michael Lisboa |
 Photo: Amber Costley |
 Photo: A.E. Lipkewich |
 Photo: alliemalley |
 Photo: Robyn Carliss |
 Photo: Lisa Argyropoulos |
 Photo: R. Mah |
 Photo: peterliuphoto |
 Photo: Jacob Osborne |
 Photo: Vivian Ip |
 Photo: Susan Marjanovic |
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Clothing optional |
Highway 1 (the closest city is Montara) San Francisco, CA 94037 United States +1 650 726 8819 http://www.parks.ca.gov |
This secluded beach on the California coastline sits just 20 minutes south of San Francisco on Interstate Highway 1. It is named after the gray whales that have been known to make an appearance off the coast here. It is situated off the rocky cliffs just before you reach Montara. You can access the 800-foot beach from a trail that starts at the parking lot. Sunbathing is the most popular activity and do not be surprised if you see more skin than normal. On this beach is clothing optional. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christine A. Wilson |
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Trails along the Pacific Ocean |
95 Kelly Avenue San Francisco, CA 94019 United States +1 650 726 8819 http://www.parks.ca.gov |
A highlight of the charming little town called Half Moon Bay is this four-mile stretch of beach that kisses the Pacific Ocean. The trail runs along the beach and is accessible by pedestrians and bikes. Parallel to that trail is a designated horse trail, but note that horses are not allowed on the beach itself. Swim at your own risk. Even in the summer the water is very cold and the currents are dangerously strong. Camping is permitted by reservation only. After a day at the beach enjoy dinner in the Half Moon Bay area, it is full of great seafood restaurants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Thomas Barta |
 Photo: Thomas Barta |
 Photo: Jaime Kurtz |
 Photo: crocodile gena |
 Photo: mary.town |
 Photo: jackie weisberg |
 Photo: Arnoud van de Laak |
 Photo: Boris Partensky |
 Photo: Carol Shelkin |
 Photo: Satish Menon |
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Fishing & boat rentals |
17930 Lake Chabot Road San Francisco, CA 94546 United States +1 510 562 7275 http://www.ebparks.org/parks/l... |
This is a small East Bay Regional Park lake where the public can swim, fish, picnic, play horseshoes, exercise, or just relax. It's equipped with well-kept trails at adjoining Fairmont Ridge for walking, jogging, and cycling. There are short piers on the lake for fishermen. The lake is stocked with a variety of freshwater species like trout, catfish, and bass and the lake hosts a fishing derby every spring. There's also a boat station on site where you can rent canoes and rowboats by the hour at little cost. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Manuel Alcala |
 Photo: Xiu Li |
 Photo: Jeni Turgeon |
 Photo: pnay02510 |
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Fun recreation in the heart of Oakland |
At the corner of Bellevue and Grand avenues San Francisco, CA 94610 United States +1 510 238 7275 http://www.oaklandnet.com/park... |
This shallow, 195-acre lake in downtown Oakland provides a variety of recreation activities to the city and its people. Pedal boats, sailboats, canoes, and rowboats are available for rent at a boating center that is open daily from 9am to sunset. Many local sports and environmental clubs congregate here. On any given day you might witness joggers, cyclists, or a boat race. It's also a place to view more than 29 species of local and migratory birds. Rotary Nature Center, Northern California's oldest Wildlife Refuge hosts a bird feeding every day at 3:30pm. The lake features an adjoining park equipped with picnic facilities and a storybook children's park, Children's Fairyland. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jenn leibhart |
 Photo: Jared Price |
 Photo: Angela Rumel |
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Small boat rentals |
568 Bellevue Avenue San Francisco, CA 94610 United States +1 510 238 2196 http://www.oaklandnet.com/park... |
Now you can row, sail, and pedal in the middle of downtown Oakland thanks to this place. The city-run entity on Lake Merritt rents sail boats, pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats to the public by the hour at low prices with only one catch, but it is a good one. Everyone must wear a life preserver. Children under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Explore the 195-acre, eight-foot deep lake and then afterwards, enjoy a picnic at Lakeside Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Oakland hills swimming lake |
6502 Broadway Terrace San Francisco, CA 94610 United States +1 510 544 2517 http://www.ebparks.org/aquatic... |
This little East Bay lake in the Oakland Hills is still recovering from a fire that occurred in 1991, but is nonetheless in fine condition for recreational purposes. The swimming area, open spring through fall, offers a lifeguard on duty in the summer, plus a snack bar and changing facility. Fishing is permitted year-round and the lake is stocked with catfish, rainbow trout, largemouth bass and more. Picnicking tables are found throughout the grassy areas of the park and a playground structure helps to keep children occupied. hours and dates are subject to change due to weather and availability of lifeguard. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Clay Ellis |
 Photo: Linda Algazzali |
 Photo: Alicia Bergin |
 Photo: James Jordan |
 Photo: Jenny Wilde |
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Only in California |
Corner of Highway 1 San Francisco, CA 94037 United States +1 650 726 8819 http://www.parks.ca.gov |
Just 20 minutes south of San Francisco off of Highway 1 lies this majestic state beach enclosed in dramatic cliffs. The two-mile beach features a cave-like area filled with tide pools. Swimming is not recommended, so sunbathing and walks are the main activities. Even on the hot days the water at Montara Beach is very cold and the waves can be too strong for even experienced swimmers. Next to the beach parking lot is the Chart House Restaurant known for its views and prime rib. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike In Park City |
 Photo: matt rowe |
 Photo: Eric Jackson |
 Photo: Jérémy Huylebroeck |
 Photo: bdogfish |
 Photo: montecal |
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Art, Music, Dance & More |
701 Mission Street (Yerba Buena Gardens) San Francisco, CA 94103-3138 United States +1 415 978 2787 |
This one-day festival takes place outdoors and features a variety of entertainment possibilities to enjoy. It is where you can listen to the jazz melodies of A Gathering of Ancestors, watch traditional Native American dances, and gather for storytelling. It also offers art exhibits and craft workshops. The all day event is not only fun, it is an educational and cultural experience. This festival is free. Some vendors may take credit cards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The world's largest park in an urban setting |
34 Graham Street San Francisco, CA 94129 United States +1 415 561 5500 http://www.presidio.gov |
The Presidio is a giant park area and National Historic Site that hosts several events and offers countless recreational opportunities. Once a military post, now it is a community space with beaches, forests, stables, and walking trails. From the Aloha Festival to the Race for the Cure to Shakespeare in the Park, from film showings to cultural festivals, there is always something going on. Check their website or give them a call for specific event information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ann Dolmage |
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Tour the Bay in Style |
Red & White Fleet: Pier 43 1/2 in Fisherman's Wharf Ferry Building Line: One Ferry Building, Gate E San Francisco, CA 94133 United States +1 415 673 2900 http://www.redandwhite.com/ |
Not for nothing is San Francisco known as "The City by the Bay". Bordered on one side by the Golden Gate Bridge and the other by the Oakland Bay Bridge, the city is fully water-locked. So if you want to see the San Francisco from the Bay itself, then book a convenient tour on Red and White Fleet. An attraction since 1892, this line offers a wide array of boat tours that are sure to please everyone, from novice tourists to seasoned San Francisco natives. After the fog lifts and the sun comes out, hundreds of vessels can be seen cruising the waters, including a bevy of tour boats. It can be overwhelming to try and pick out the tour that suits your needs, as many have very specific itineraries that make it difficult for large groups and families to compromise. So before getting too caught up in the throngs of visitors, stop off at Gate E of the historic Ferry Building and check out The Ferry Building Line, a popular subsidiary of the Red and White Fleet. During the 90 minute ride, the boat stops by the famous waterfront AT&T ballpark, then sails under the Bay Bride around Treasure Island (see if you can spot sea lions basking on the rocks!) and returns past the crowds at Alcatraz. This journey offers a unique perspective of the city and is also a great way to get your fill of fresh air away from the busy streets. Plus, while enjoying the view, you can learn about the area with the tour's complimentary audio guides. These guides provide information about the architecture, Native American community, or natural history of the region, and are a great way to complement the visually stunning trip. Also, there are plenty of drinks and snacks available on the boats' lower level to whet your appetite before you head out to dine along the Embarcadero. If you are more of a landlubber, Red and White Fleet also has a series of bus tours that traverse the city, nearby Muir Woods, or Napa Valley, among others, so be sure to visit the website and find your perfect trip. These land tours, as well as other Red and White Fleet boat excursions like the 1-hour Golden Gate Bay Cruise and 2-hour California Sunset Cruise, leave from Pier 43 1/2 in Fisherman's Wharf. So sit back and enjoy the trip, and be sure to bring along a camera to catch all the sights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: infohanes |
 Photo: playrawkstar |
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Wildlife refuge |
600 Bellevue Avenue San Francisco, CA 94610 United States +1 510 238 3739 http://www.oaklandnet.com/park... |
This is the oldest wildlife refuge in Northern California and provides a variety of programs at Lake Merritt. Stop by the wilderness center when you visit Lake Merritt and Lakeside Park, a huge lake and recreation facility in downtown Oakland where you can picnic and rent sail boats. In the summer and throughout the year, the center puts on day camps, classes, and events. Every day at 3p, the center hosts a bird feeding that anyone can join. Afterwards check out the nature literature and displays the center has to offer. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pier, Museum & Library |
Hyde Street Pier: Jefferson & Hyde Streets Maritime Museum: Beach & Polk Streets San Francisco, CA 94123 United States +1 415 551 7006 http://www.maritime.org/ |
This national park and tribute to maritime history consists of the Hyde Street Pier, the National Maritime Museum, and the Maritime Museum Library. The pier, located on the western end of Fisherman's Wharf, features a fleet of historic vessels that visitors can tour. Imagine how little you'll feel when you board the 1886 square-rigger Balclutha, 1895 schooner C.A. Thayer, or the 1890-steam ferryboat, Eureka. The park also offers a variety of history, music and craft programs including hands-on exhibits, waysides, videos, tours, classes, and workshops. Admission to the Museum and Library and the Hyde Street Pier is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: metropol2 |
 Photo: Stephen, http://flickr.com/photos/furrylilfucker |
 Photo: Albert Armstrong |
 Photo: Jean-Pierre Louis |
 Photo: Sergio Tajada Porter |
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Sandy Creativity |
Robert Crown Memorial State Beach (Westline Street at Otis Drive) San Francisco, CA 94501 United States +1 510 747 7529 |
Every summer, dozens of individuals, couples, and groups enjoy the gigantic sand castle creations to be judged. Stroll along the beach and take in the sights, both the contest entries and the view of San Francisco. You will see unbelievably creative works of art displayed. It is a great contest to take the kids to. There are more than just castles, though. People make animals, cartoon characters, people, toys, and themed sculptures. Food stands, music, and other activities are also provided. Some vendors may accept credit cards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Irwan Tanadi |
 Photo: Anita Hart |
 Photo: Peter Spier |
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Small powerboat rental |
85 Liberty Ship Way San Francisco, CA 94965 United States +1 415 331 0444 http://www.sausbay.com |
This is the only establishments that rents small powerboats on San Francisco Bay. It offers a fleet of 14' and 19' Boston Whalers, powerful outboards that are the closest thing to a Jet ski practicable on the choppy Bay. Also available for rental are sailboats and larger powerboats, up to 49', but those vessels must be skippered by licensed captains. But never fear, Sausalito Bay Adventures has pilots for hire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lee Wee Leong |
 Photo: ornitorrin&co. |
 Photo: Ginny Skalski |
 Photo: Sasha |
 Photo: Ingrid Vande Velde |
 Photo: Dwayne Hoover |
 Photo: Pieter Claerhout |
 Photo: Lianne Domenic |
 Photo: Clair A. McDevitt |
 Photo: Justin Watt |
 Photo: Theodoric |
 Photo: Tor Olav Lehn Hagen |
 Photo: James Siddle |
 Photo: Stephen Lippay |
