Orinda, California
Orinda, California is a great place to explore the outdoors. Here, you'll find plenty of top-notch trails and outdoor activities to keep you busy. From scenic hikes to must-visit attractions, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or an adrenaline-filled experience, you'll find it here. The best trails to explore include the Briones Regional Park and the San Pablo Reservoir. The San Pablo Reservoir is a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those looking for a more leisurely activity, the Briones Regional Park is perfect for bird watching, hiking, and picnics. Other must-visit attractions include the Orinda Theater, the Orinda Farmer's Market, and the Orinda Community Park. No matter what kind of outdoor activities you're looking for, Orinda, California has something for everyone.
Top Spots in and near Orinda
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San Francisco, California
Paddle at Crane Cove
5.0Crane Cove is a beautiful waterfront park with access for paddle boards and kayaks. This area is protected from the wind (it will be less choppy here than in the middle of the bay). If you decide to paddle up to mission bay or down towards Islais Creek you'll most likely face more currents and w...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Catch a Sunrise at Ina Coolbrith Park
5.0This tucked away neighborhood gem is less than a square block in size, but offers some of the best views of San Francisco. After a quick, but steep, 5 minute walk, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of: the city skyline, Coit Tower, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge. There are a few benches avai...Read more -
Tiburon, California
Angel Island Perimeter Loop
5.98 mi / 794 ft gainAngel Island Perimeter Loop is a loop trail around the circumference of the island in the San Francisco Bay. The island is located near Tiburon, California with views of downtown San Francisco, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Oakland, Sausalito, and TIburon as you traverse around the island. ...Read more -
Belvedere Tiburon, California
Mt. Livermore via North Ridge Trail
4.54.92 mi / 1178 ft gainUnless you own a boat or a kayak, this adventure requires a ride on the Blue and Gold Ferry from Pier 41 in San Francisco. But let’s be honest, that’s actually half the fun. Who doesn’t love a ferry ride? Angel Island State Park is the largest island in the Bay, and recommend the 6-mile loop aro...Read more -
Tiburon, California
Camp on Angel Island
5.0Thousands of years ago, this island was a fishing and hunting ground for the Miwok Native Americans. It has also been an outpost for the U.S. Army and a cattle ranch. Now, it’s one of the closest places to escape from the hustle of San Francisco and set up camp. Camping on the island requires ba...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Aquatic Park
3.7Take an early morning swim and watch the sunrise over the east bay or catch an afternoon swim on a sunny SF day. A full lap around the buoys (out-and-back) is about 1/3 mile and the perimeter of the park is 1 mile. Bring your dog for a swim too! Afterward, you can head up Columbus to one of the m...Read more -
Clayton, California
Hike the Waterfalls of Mount Diablo Loop Trail
5.06 mi / 1627 ft gainWinter and spring rains create scenic waterfalls in this hike at Mount Diablo, the East Bay's signature peak. Be careful hiking immediately post-rain, watch for slippery sections of mud. The trail is moderately difficult and is used by hikers, walking groups, trail runners, and for nature trips. ...Read more -
San Francisco, CaliforniaFort Mason
4.8When the sun comes out in San Francisco, Fort Mason's Great Meadow Park transforms into ground zero for bocce ball, corn hole, wiffle ball, music, dancing, wine, and beer. While it lacks the diversity and quirkiness found at Dolores Park, it makes up for it with a beautiful panoramic view of the ...Read more -
Vallejo, California
Camp at Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve
1 mi / 20 ft gainThis old Naval Base is now home to, well, almost nothing. As a weekend volunteer trip, myself and about 50 others got a little dirty creating 3 new campsites for you and your friends!During the day, the island has hikers exploring everywhere, but the preserve closes upon sunset and it's just you ...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Alamo Park Square Park
4.6If you’re ever in San Francisco, you’ll definitely want to spend a bit of time in Alamo Square gazing at these stellar examples of San Francisco history. This is a beautiful and popular green space, where you have uninterrupted views of the iconic Painted Ladies. The Painted Ladies are row of...Read more -
San Francisco, CaliforniaLyon Street Steps
4.5Rumor has it there are almost 300 stairs from top to bottom. This is a great place to get some exercise in if you're up for running or walking up the stairs. Do a few laps (roundtrip) and you'll be pretty happy with your workout. If you're really looking to get after it, throw in a few pushups an...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Bike the Golden Gate to Sausalito
4.7Riding your bike across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, and then enjoying some drinks on the back deck at Sam's, is a great way to spend a nice day. The views along the way are simply breathtaking. After your ride and a day of fun in Sausalito, you can return to San Francisco by ferry. It's ...Read more -
San Francisco, CaliforniaLover's Lane, Ecology, Mountain Lake Trail Loop
4.52.04 mi / 344 ft gainTucked into a corner of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is the Presidio, a beautiful little oasis of forests, beaches, and sweeping views that locals love. While the coastal trails get most of the attention here, the park covers 300 acres of prime real estate with lots of notable attract...Read more -
San Francisco, California
San Francisco Crosstown Trail
5.016.71 mi / 1975 ft gainThe San Francisco Crosstown Trail runs point-to-point from Candlestick Point to Land End. The SF Crosstown Trail officially opened in 2014. It connects park trails to neighborhoods and communities. In it's in entirety it's almost 17 miles long with 5 Sections available for those looking to bre...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Park Day at Dolores Park
4.0If the sun is shining, and you’re in the mood for playing around with friends in one of SF’s many amazing parks, Dolores should be at the top of your list. With amazing views of downtown, huge tiered lawn areas, tennis courts, basketball courts, a brand new playground, and easy access to some of ...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Bernal Heights Park
4.70.95 mi / 128 ft gainBernal Heights Park is an excellent week night adventure for those who need an escape from the city. Sit atop this small, grassy peak in peace and look out over the San Francisco skyline. Park on the street bordering the park and follow a pathway that leads up to the top. You will be instantly g...Read more
