You Don't Need The Ocean To Have Some Waterfront Fun In The Bay Area
The Bay Area is all about water! Dive into some little known Bay Area lakes and bays, and get an insider's look at "Clear Lake." Also, find out where to take your special someone on a romantic, waterfront date.
Lake Sonoma
1000 Skaggs Springs Road
Geyserville, CA 95441
(707) 433-2200
www.lakesonoma.com
Lake Sonoma is located 10 minutes from Healdsburg off of Dry Creek Road. The fully equipped marina that is open year round -- you'll find boat rentals, a BBQ area, a swimming beach, delicious deli and more.
Official Park Web Page
www.spn.usace.army.mil/lake_sonoma/index.html
Bike Monkey
www.bikemonkey.net
Bike Monkey provides a range of event services for cyclists, like the SoNoMas mountain bike race at Lake Sonoma.
Back Country Horseman
1007 B West College Ave PMB #153
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
www.northbayunit.com
Backcountry Horsemen of California (BCHC) work to preserve the historic use of trails. They also organize group rides, like the Moon Light ride on Lake Sonoma.
Sonoma Country Bowman
More Information
This Sonoma County non-profit is dedicated to fun, safe recreational archery. From the Under 8 "Pee Wees' to the seniors' group of archers 80 and older, everyone is grabbing a bow and arrow and getting in on the fun. For a unique family experience, membership here is just $50 annually. Bullseye!
Lake Chabot
17600 Lake Chabot Road
Castro Valley, CA 94546
www.ebparks.org/parks/lake_chabot
The 315-acre Lake Chabot is stocked with trout and catfish. There are also bass, crappie, and other fish. Services at the lake include boat and canoe rentals. Enjoy lakeside picnicking while the kids explore the grassy play area. There are horseshoe pits, hiking trails, and paths for bicycling and jogging.
Lake Anza
Entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard
Berkeley, CA 94708
www.ebparks.org/parks/tilden
Tilden Park's Lake Anza is a favorite East Bay getaway. Swim season is normally May through September. The lake is open for fishing year-round. Enjoy picnicking, camping, biking, and hiking in this gorgeous East Bay Spot. Tilden Park is an especially great spot for a romantic picnic and walk.
Shadow Cliffs Lake and Water Slides
2500 Stanley Boulevard
Pleasanton, CA 94566
www.ebparks.org/parks/shadow_cliffs
Have some fun in the sun at Shadow Cliffs. Located just a mile from downtown Pleasanton, this 80-acre lake has a four-flume waterslide, ample parking, and picnic grounds. Bring along a fishing pole and fish the lake, or splash down the slides at this popular East Bay spot.
Forbes Island
Sea Lion Harbor - "H" Dock
Between Pier 39 & 41
San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 951-4900
More Information
Forbes Island is the only floating island in the world. The 100-seat restaurant is decorated like the inside of an 1810 sailing ship, with a (faux) fireplace, bar, and wine cellar. This amazing nautical masterpiece features underwater dining rooms, waterside cocktails, incredible view's and a quick boat ride to this upscale dining adventure.
East Brother Light Station
117 Park Place
Richmond, CA 94801
(510) 233-238
More Information
Looking for a unique getaway? East Brother Light Station is a beautifully restored California Victorian Lighthouse Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Inn. The Inn sits atop an island in the strait that separates the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays. A stay at the lighthouse includes champagne & hors d'oeuvres upon arrival, a multi-course dinner with wine and a full gourmet breakfast the next morning. Guests also get to tour the island.
Shoreline Lake and Aquatic Park
3160 N. Shoreline Boulevard
Mountain View, CA 94043
650) 965-7474
www.shorelinelake.com
Shoreline Lake is an entirely man-made lake. This family spot is perfect for enjoying water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and canoeing. Rent a paddleboat, or sit in the charming cafe and take in the scenery. In fact, Shoreline Lake is also a wildlife sanctuary.
Featherbed Railroad B&B
2870 Lakeshore Boulevard,
Nice, CA 95464
(707) 274-8378
www.featherbedrailroad.com
Have you ever slept in a caboose before? Well, now is your chance! The Featherbed Railroad is located on the shore of gorgeous Clear Lake. Stay in one of nine luxurious antique railroad cabooses overlooking the private boat launch, beach and pier. You'll stay put for this adventure, the train cars don't ride the rails anymore.
Ready for your next adventure? Head over to Eye on the Bay's Travel & Outdoors section and discover the best of the Bay.
