In the Heart of the Bay: Our Summer Bucket List of Outdoor Fun

This month, Cal State East Bay celebrated its 65th year in the heart of the Bay. Students say that our location is one of the draws to the university and alumni must agree that this is one of the most rewarding places to live: more than 80 percent of our graduates remain in the region. 

Cal State East Bay Magazine recently asked for a roundup of our staff and faculty’s favorite Bay Area spots. We’re pleased to share with you a summer** bucket list of 65 “must see/must visit” places that remind us why we love the region: the great outdoor views and climate, Instagram worthy spots and some of the best darn food on the planet. 

**Although, with weather like ours, it’s a beautiful day in the East Bay year round! 

Bay Area Outdoor Fun

With views and weather like we have in the Bay Area, it’s no wonder our Cal State East Bay community has outdoor activities on their “best of” bucket list. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

1. A beach day in Alameda

The Northern California shoreline has stunning views and a reprieve from July heat. (Thanks, Nora and Sheryl, for this suggestion!)

This regional destination has 1,500 rose bushes and 250 varieties of roses, along with breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

3. East Bay Regional Park trails

So many choices for every season! Gorgeous oaks, vibrant spring blooms and red tail hawks. Of special note from Twinki and Martin: Mission Peak and Tilden Regional Park.

4. Farmers markets throughout the East Bay:

You name the city, they’ve got a regular farmers market that features seasonal produce from apples to zucchini.

5. Lake Elizabeth in Fremont, Lake Merritt in Oakland, or Lake Chabot in Castro Valley

Pack a picnic, get your walking shoes and plan to rent a boat to putter around any of these lovely neighborhood lakes. 

6. Little Yosemite, Sunol

Shady woodlands, rolling hills and a stunning gorge. We love a weekend trip to the real Yosemite, but dogs are welcome in this mini version of Yosemite. Recommended by Ashmita and Mark. 

7. Hiking

So many choices! We especially love Mount Diablo State Park, near our Concord Campus and Pinnacles National Park.  

8. Oakland A’s

It’s root, root, root for the home team! Home plate is just up the freeway from Cal State East Bay. Insiders recommend watching/dining from the Treehouse.

9. Bike it out

Whether you have two, three or four wheels (or prefer to use your feet), get out for fresh breezes and great views along the Hayward Shoreline or San Leandro Marina.

10. Indian Rock Park, Berkeley

Before the legends of Yosemite rock climbing got their start on this volcanic deposit, the native Ohlone people of the region gathered at these stunning outcroppings. 

11. Muir Woods and a stop at Muir Beach or Stinson Beach

You know Endor forest with those adorable little Ewoks? Spitting image location! Not far down the road are several slivers of stunning, quiet beaches. Tip from Kathryn P, Nora and Linda: Make sure you have a reservation before you go to Muir Woods. 

Photo Credit: David Ball/WikiMediaCommons