Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Marina Bay Park

    4.4 (51 reviews)

    Marina Bay Park Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Marina Bay Park

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Phil A.

    A very nice park in Richmond!! This park is very clean and well maintained. There are large grassy areas along with paved trails throughout. And it's right next to the Bay Trail and Marina Bay. I've come here because it's a great place to run next to the water, you can get some good miles in on the Bay Trail here. I've even ran a few races here, a nice and flat course. You have the Rosie The Riviter historical monument here. The parking lot is big enough, there are clean restrooms here, and on a nice sunny day, this is a great place to be!!

    Walking trail along the bay
    Shelby S.

    I LOVE this whole area and the trail along the bay. It's the perfect place to get out and exercise, whether running, walking, or biking. It's flat and everyone you encounter seem so friendly. The plants are gorgeous and they have lots of benches available to sit at if you need a break. Such a special place to enjoy the bay and you can often get beautiful views of San Francisco.

    Soaking up the sun
    Donovan H.

    I was almost hesitant writing this review since I don't want to spread the word of this amazing hidden gem. Having lived in the Bay Area for the first 25 years of my life, I had no idea this place even existed. And considering that this is in Richmond of all places, many people flock to the more popular scenic areas such as San Francisco, Sausalito, Tiburon, and Oakland. However, "Marina Bay Park" deserves much praise and after visiting here, I definitely want to come back again. I ended up coming here over Labor Day weekend with my life for a little weekend getaway. We ended up reserving an Airbnb house which was only a 5-minute walk from this place. Located less than a mile from the 580 freeway and adjacent to Marina Bay Pkwy and Regatta Blvd., this place is in the heart of Point Richmond where this community flourished with new homes back in the 1990's. The park itself is a perfect setting for taking a jog, riding your bike, and walking your dog while spending a relaxing afternoon on the long paved road. The weather can vary greatly as this lies directly at the San Francisco Bay. On any given day, you might get strong winds, a heavy blanket of fog, or on the day my lady and I went, a strong ray of sunshine. I would definitely recommend bringing extra warm clothes just in case. On the coastal part of Marina Bay Park, there are fisherman on any given day. They do have a small sandy beach area but I do warn that its not suitable for swimming with the rocks and strong waves. On the park side, there are plenty of fixed barbecue pits, picnic tables, a playground for the kids, clean public restrooms, and a grassy field that is large enough if you wanted to play soccer or football. It's also ideal if you wanted to do something more low-key such as having a picnic and/or flying a kite. But what really sold me on this place was the view! On a clear day, you will be able to see the skylines of Oakland and San Francisco as well as the Oakland/San Francisco Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge. Additionally, there are a ton of sailboats, ships, and other watercraft on any given day. And keep a heads up since there are a ton of seagulls out here. The views are priceless and a great, therapeutic way to relax and enjoy your day at the bay. Overall, this hidden gem is everything I expected it to be and much, much more. My rating for "Marina Bay Park", a perfect five stars.

    Boats at sunset
    Jacqueline F.

    This is my favorite place to unwind after a long and hectic day. There is something about walking near the water that is calm and sooothing and while going to my favorite spot, Lake Merrit, is out of the question, this isn't a bad place for my daily stroll. I love the atmosphere here, the people seem nice, and all and all, the walk was good. As the weather warms up, I will go there more and more. The funny thing is that I only started coming here a few years ago. Before 2008, I didn't know that it existed. But I'm glad that it does and that I can take a nice walk along the path. I also get a kick out of the markers that tell the history of the area. Richmond was a rocking good place to live in and has a beautiful history. I'm glad that there is a place to capture it.

    Sunset
    Judy Y.

    My beloved Richmond marina bay park. This is one of the main reasons I have come to love east bay. Whenever I come here I whisper to myself, "I love it here." Just thinking about it makes me feel so much peace joy and love. Plenty of parking at the parks - shimada friendship park and the other one. No one really goes to the shimada park but rather they come to walk along the bay near the parks. I love how the trail is super close to the ocean, you can walk 10 feet and you would be able to dip your feet in the water. I've taken numerous photos here, so many beautiful ones. I love watching the seagulls fly above me and the magnificent pelicans and snowy egrets. The sunsets are to die for. The air is fresh and dewey, perfect for a spring, summer, fall and winter stroll. Not sure how cold it gets during the January-March months but April to June it was kinda cold and windy. Bring a thicker jacket if it's low 60s and below. Bring a medium to thin jacket if it's above that. Not too many people but enough to keep it interesting. I always see this one jogger there; whether I come on a weekend during the day or weekday after work, it's the person who wears a beanie, covers their eyes with sunglasses and their face and neck with a shawl, wears a sweater and sweats. Who are you? Anyway, I love it. I actually walked all the way to the where there is a street where Costco was, didn't like the end part because no one was really there and there was a huge homeless encampment there. But if you stick to the beginning and middle of the trail you will be enthralled and take delight in the beauty around you!

    Scott H.

    Beautiful park next to the Richmond marina. Take a bike ride to here from Emeryville along the Bay trail. I've lived in the Bay Area for almost 30 years and it's my first visit to this park.

    Irene G.

    I've always enjoyed walking on this trail or biking riding on it. We've ridden from the beginning which is near Rosie the Riveter all the way to Costco. It's a beautiful view of boats, geese and those who are fishing and parasailing. There's a variety of plant life and a wonderful breeze.

    Asianae L.

    I have visited this beautiful Marina Park twice since my move , and it has made my move worth it . With covid , the fabric of our lives has changed drastically. However , it has encouraged many people to discover outdoor activities more than anything. This park is a great experience if you love water , boats , long walks and great eateries. Great for biking , family walks , pet walking , lunch breaks etc. You also run into many historical plaques , different breeds of flowers , children's play grounds and artistic sculptures . I would advise to wear a mask while visiting the park , as there can be a lot of foot traffic.

    Bill B.

    Great experience for a day trip through the bay. Stopped at marina to let passengers stretch their legs. Very impressed with the clean park. Will add it to another trip for sure.

    Umesh T.

    Have you ever, sometimes, just wanted to lay a blanket on a carpet of green grass, stretch out, put on your sun glasses, gaze into the clear blue sky with little white speckles of cloud breaking the deep blue canvas as you momentarily forget all the troubles of the world around you, and enjoy that ephemeral moment of carefree joy in your own little wonderland of the moment? This, here park, is that place! I had no idea there was such an amazing view and walk here. The long paved walk is more than a mile and runs through different small parks in the area and along the water. This particular park has the "Rosie the riveter" memorial structure and is also the area where Kaiser (of Kaiser Permanente fame) built his ships during the 2nd world war. All I can say is just go there on a nice sunny day and enjoy the cool sea breeze caressing you as the sound of the lapping wavelets lull you into your own little dreamworld.

    Views along the Bay Trail, just west
    Jana C.

    Across the street from park, east side,2 public courts for tennis--with night lights... My own little jewel for exercise and therapy . Giddy-up!!!

    DeAjuané J.

    Love the Marina been coming here since I was a kid. I remember my cousins and I bringing our scooters & bikes here & rolling around all day. It's always nice to take a walk around the water and take in the beautiful scenery. I came here today for an afternoon walk. I love that you can sit so close to the water front & watch the boats glide & birds fly across. It's so relaxing to walk the trails, watch the water & sit/lay in the grass. Its a great place to get some exercise & have family outings. There are BBQ pits, playgrounds, paved walkways for biking & areas where you can fish. There's plenty of space and seating so everyone isn't piled on top of one another. On a nice day the Marina provides the perfect atmosphere to clear your mind and enjoy the weather. Always bring a jacket as being so close to the water can get a little cool/windy.

    Anna O.

    I love love love this park and neighborhood. I go running/jogging/walking/biking on the SF bay trail, more than often. I love the wind, kids and people around. It has such a great sun light, views and every minute of it is breathtaking. If you want a long trail to run or walk or bike, this is a great place and it runs all way to the Costco and even further which I haven't explored yet. It is safe and friendly place. RICHMOND PD is nearby and a call away if there is some help you need. I have a 6-year old niece and she loves playing here. I took my husband for a walk at the park and he didn't wanna come back home.

    See all

    8 days ago

    Acres and acres of scenic waterfront! Picnic areas, paved trails, and more. Bike, walk, job, roller blade....pick your passion!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Scott H.
    140
    3974
    4369

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Umesh T.
    1891
    512
    4486

    15 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jana C.
    651
    3294
    14399

    11 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J D.
    0
    58
    0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Anna O.
    4
    50
    88

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ligaya T.
    3496
    1196
    1114

    17 years ago

    Helpful 32
    Thanks 0
    Love this 31
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John M.
    986
    1329
    1396

    11 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Beautiful park located in Richmond. Epic views of the Bay and surrounding cities. Come in a clear day and soak in the sun!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Nikhil V.
    65
    128
    73

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of T F.
    6
    329
    1368

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of David D.
    2293
    359
    1750

    9 years ago

    Helpful 28
    Thanks 0
    Love this 29
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jackie R.
    172
    52
    39

    6 years ago

    Very mellow place! I enjoy coming here with my boyfriend Along with my fur babies! The view is great :)

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Maxx W.
    259
    135
    1239

    15 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Doctor G.
    1
    2405
    2

    15 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Frank B.
    65
    894
    88

    12 years ago

    Great park, informative monument, plenty of free parking, miles of beautiful shoreline walking in both directions.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alexis O.
    23
    52
    42

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Marina Bay Park

    Review Highlights - Marina Bay Park

    I happened to bike through the Marina Bay Park today as we were taking the Bay Trail up from the Berkeley Marina.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Parks 16,929 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Wildcat Canyon Regional Park - Be careful which way you choose

    Wildcat Canyon Regional Park

    4.4(96 reviews)
    2.8 mi

    "Can we go hike with the cows this weekend?"…read more "With the cows??... Oh yeah! We haven't done that in a while, huh?" "Yeah. I want to go hike with the cows this weekend." "Ok, my little darling. Let's go hike with the cows." "Can I pet the cows??" "No. Don't touch the cows. Remember that time I tried to pet one of the cows and it almost ran all over me?" Plenty of car parking. No bathrooms. Spectacular views! Latch the gate after you go through so the cows don't get out. Don't pet the cows. If you choose to give a thumbs-up or not, I hope you found my review helpful!

    Although I've historically preferred hiking in Tilden Park, I usually park in Wildcat Canyon,…read morebecause it's closer to me, and because I essentially consider Tilden and Wildcat to be the same park. Wildcat Canyon and Tilden Park sit right next to each other, and are connected by Wildcat Gorge Trail. Tilden is easier to access from the Bay side, while Wildcat is easier to access from Sacramento. Overall, Tilden is more oriented towards small children, while Wildcat is more oriented towards serious hikers and cyclists. The thing about Wildcat Canyon is, if you only hike Wildcat Gorge Trail, and don't take any of the hard trails up the mountains, then you will miss almost everything there is to see. All of the scenic views are up on top of Leonard's Trail, Mezue Trail, Havey Canyon Trail, etc. Most of these trails are located on the side of Wildcat that is closest to Tilden. Wildcat Gorge Trail itself is mostly boring and flat. It starts out as an abandoned paved road, which eventually gives way to a dirt road, a smaller gravel road, and then the trail to Tilden. The entire time I was hiking Wildcat Gorge Trail, I was having thoughts like, "This would have been so much better on a bike. There's not much to see." (Or, at least, nothing that couldn't have been seen in Tilden Park.) On the other hand, Mezue Trail, which is accessible through the park via Wildcat Gorge Trail, is one of the prettiest trails I've hiked in the area, and was so hard to hike that (combined with the rest of the day of hiking) it left me barely able to get out of bed the next morning. Technically, I didn't get to the top or finish Mezue trail (this time), but from a mile or so up, it felt like I could see the entire bay area. The views were comparable to Mission Peak. Since it was a clear day, I was even able to see the Golden Gate Bridge. The distance from the parking lot at Wildcat to the edge of Tilden is just over three miles. Technically, the space between them is "closed," but the closure is nothing more than a sign which literally everyone ignores. (Dozens of runners passed me on my way to Tilden, and I didn't see a single one of them turn around and run back the other way-- they all passed through the "closure.") Overall, I'm not the biggest fan of Wildcat Canyon itself, but love it for the free/easy parking and the trails that it leads to.

    Photos
    Wildcat Canyon Regional Park - Enjoying picnic

    Enjoying picnic

    Wildcat Canyon Regional Park
    Wildcat Canyon Regional Park - Nice bridge over the still running creek

    See all

    Nice bridge over the still running creek

    Point Isabel Regional Shoreline - TEPCO beach (crab)

    Point Isabel Regional Shoreline

    4.6(16 reviews)
    1.6 mi

    There's no place in California that will ever equal the beauty and friendliness of this dog park. I…read moredon't know how many acres it is but it's huge and all the dogs are off leash and they all get along. I rarely ever see a dog fight. There's access to the water for the swimming dogs, there's access to mud for the mudders and there is a group of canals that they've incorporated paths so I can do walk around and see the wildlife. The view from here of San Francisco the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge you cannot believe it until you're sitting right here looking at it. I love this place and I always plan to have time just to relax before I go back to the car. Needless to say since it is a dog park, the dog comes with us and she's always very happy to have an adventure with us.

    We've been Hera handful of times and this park/open area is nice for runners and dog walkers alike…read more If you start at the parking lot with the Cafe, and walk on the pathway across to the bridge and then the point with the single table/look out, it's .90mi. Since it's by the shore, it's usually pretty windy here, so layer up. Dogs also g in the water, so be aware of the open access to the water. There's 2 sets of restrooms, one by the Cafe/grooming area and another by the bridge. We're definitely coming back here with our puppies.

    Photos
    Point Isabel Regional Shoreline - TEPCO beach

    TEPCO beach

    Point Isabel Regional Shoreline - Sunset, with a view of the bay

    Sunset, with a view of the bay

    Point Isabel Regional Shoreline - Pretty clear this Sunday morning! Hee.

    See all

    Pretty clear this Sunday morning! Hee.

    Brooks Island Regional Preserve - Brooks Island Preserve, Richmond, CA Marina

    Brooks Island Regional Preserve

    3.8(4 reviews)
    0.5 mi

    I bet many in the Bay Area haven't heard of Brooks Island Regional Shoreline and don't know where…read moreit is. I heard about Brooks Island though a hiking friend only a few yrs ago. One reason it took me so long to visit it is cuz you need to have RSVP to be lead on a Guided tour of the Island. I finally made RSVP through the East Bay Regional Park District by calling 510-636-1684 and signing my hubby and me up for the Brooks Island "Outfitter" Paddle which is $85 pp. It's expensive but it's something new & exciting. We meet at the Richmond Marina and you can park your car for $10 there, or take your chances in the FREE lot on the Right, or the street. We took our chances and the car was still there after the class (don't know about you guys). The class we had on Sat 6/7/07 was from 11am-4pm. There were about 11 of us. 2 kayake guides & a botanist. Kayaking to the island is only 1/2 a mile away, but it's Hard. Especially for us since we don't kayake. Everyone (older & more experienced) passed us, and we were the last ones. After we get to the Island we then have a potluck lunch (we all had to bring something to share for 7 ppl-we brought store bought cookies). There is a Caretaker that lives on the island that took us on a guided 2-mi hike around the island which is normally closed to visitors. Lots of birds to see if you bring binoculars. The views we had were just ok cuz it was hazy, but on a nice day should be nice. After the hike we had to kayake back which was easier. It's worth it to sign up for an outing if you've done everything else in the Bay Area & interested in this regional park. Website: http://ebparks.org/programsearch Search under: Brooks Island Regional Shoreline for activities

    Foolish and naive, I kayaked out here once upon a time, only to be yelled at relentlessly by a…read moreperson protector already there that we were not allowed to step on the land. ECOLOGICAL PRESERVATION, can somebody say?! woops; mea culpa Cool thing is, you are allowed to stop on the north spit of the island, which is what we did to enjoy the wondrous views of the Bay, spot a sea lion (or was it a seal?) frolicking, and glory in that CA sun. straight from their website: "NOTE: You may only access Brooks Island as part of a scheduled East Bay Regional Park District naturalist tour. Please call the Reservations Department at 888-327-2757, option 2 or visit www.EBParksOnline.org for the current schedule of trips."

    Photos
    Brooks Island Regional Preserve - Brooks Island Richmond, CA

    Brooks Island Richmond, CA

    Brooks Island Regional Preserve
    Brooks Island Regional Preserve - Last summer weekend, Brooks Island, Richmond, CA Marina

    See all

    Last summer weekend, Brooks Island, Richmond, CA Marina

    Blake Garden

    Blake Garden

    4.8(53 reviews)
    3.3 mi

    Wish I knew about this garden when I was a student at CAL. This park is part of the landscaping…read moreprogram at CAL. Even the door was inconspicuous and at first glance, we were not sure if the entry was the secret staff entry or an actual entryway. It was my first time here and it was hidden in a quiet Kensington neighborhood. I accidentally found this park on Yelp and didn't think much about it but my hubby and I were surprised how charming this park is. It was like a little fairyland full of ethereal cottage flowers such as wispy cosmos moving with the breeze and happy bees everywhere. There were volunteers planting Benary zinnias and other flowers. There was a clean bathroom inside their office and plants offered for a donation. I saw mothers with their babies talking as if they come here all the time. There was a group of elderly women chatting and enjoying the peaceful garden. I was there for 30 minutes before lunch and only saw about 35 percent of the garden and I look forward to another trip to this secret garden in Kensington.

    This is truly a hidden jump in the area. A local friend of mine suggested this place and I visited…read more It's a little bit confusing on where to walk but once you park, you go through the gates and you walk down straight on the paved path. Very cute location and has plenty of area to walk around. It kind of feels like you transported in time to another location or another place in Europe. Highly recommend checking this out if you're in the area, it could be a cute spot or just a walk with friends. Ample parking available, but make sure you check the times before you go. Their hours are pretty limited, so be sure to check it out ahead of time.

    Photos
    Blake Garden - Blake Garden, here for my sons double masters in Landscape Architecture and City Planning from top #1 Public College.

    Blake Garden, here for my sons double masters in Landscape Architecture and City Planning from top #1 Public College.

    Blake Garden
    Blake Garden - Artichoke thistle

    See all

    Artichoke thistle

    Rifle Range Road Trail - Rifle Range Road Trail

    Rifle Range Road Trail

    4.0(1 review)
    2.8 mi

    ** The following review reflects my experience DURING the COVID-19 pandemic. **…read more If you've ever seen the back side of the northern part of the East Bay from Richmond to Berkeley, you'll see the rolling hills of Wildcat Canyon in the distance, and the little brown and black specks are cows. Before I discovered this gem of a semi-hidden half-mile trail, I thought the only way to get over there was either by way of Wildcat's main entrance up in the northern part of Richmond or miles away through Tilden Park in Berkeley, which basically translated into a commitment of hours of walking on the main trail. That's why this trail is so vital to anyone who happens to be in El Cerrito, Kensington, or North Berkeley and looking to get closer to those cows. It starts at the end of Rifle Range Road off Arlington Avenue. There's no parking lot, but street parking shouldn't be a problem as I've never seen it that crowded here, even on weekends. It descends right away, but the slope is gradual even if the surface can get rocky. It's a casual walk, but do be mindful of the sporadic poison oak on the side and the occasional coyote sighting. I've not seen one but there's always a first time. The trail ends at a picturesque small bridge that intersects with the main hiking route, Wildcat Creek Trail. Here you have several choices. You can go left and end up at Wildcat's main entrance. Or you can go right and make your way to Jewel Lake and the Tilden Nature Area (my favorite route). Or take one of four different routes up the hills to get upfront with the cattle, or you can just make the uphill return walk back to Rifle Range Road. No harm, no foul. Get your steps in! RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2OrC8nU

    Photos
    Rifle Range Road Trail - Rifle Range Road Trail

    Rifle Range Road Trail

    Rifle Range Road Trail - Rifle Range Road Trail

    Rifle Range Road Trail

    Rifle Range Road Trail - Rifle Range Road Trail

    See all

    Rifle Range Road Trail

    Motorcycle Hill - Motorcycle Hill

    Motorcycle Hill

    4.3(4 reviews)
    2.3 mi

    ** The following review reflects my experience DURING the COVID-19 pandemic. **…read more It's actually not that hard to imagine the motorcycle hill climb races that took place here nearly a century ago. The surprise is how this steep escarpment remained untouched by real estate developers given how suburban this part of El Cerrito feels. I keep picturing that scene in "The Great Escape" where Steve McQueen jumped the POW camp fence as a testosterone-driven act of Nazi defiance. He would've ended up on somebody's backyard deck or in a hopefully filled swimming pool if he tried it now. You can get there from the bottom of the hill on the sorta corner of Navallier and Blake where you see a little staircase and a flyer posted on the fence about the hill's history. Or alternatively, you can take the hidden hillside stairs of El Cerrito and enter at the top through the nondescript path from Potrero Avenue. From the entrance, the first segment affords you a wide foot trail and a panoramic view of the bay (photo: https://bit.ly/2PI6CXp). The hillside trail itself is rustic in either direction with a lot of tall grass and dead trees that look like they were cut and left there for years. And yet, the constant views of El Cerrito make it a more pleasurable experience than you would expect despite the unexpected appearance of immobile wild turkeys (photo: https://bit.ly/3kO4wAM). RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2OrC8nU

    A hiking trail that's perfect for both uphill and downhill hiking, Motorcycle Hill just proves…read moretrails can not only exist just about anywhere there is public land but it also proves that trails can be created at anytime thanks to the fortitude and creative energy of a group of community nature lovers. In this case Motorcycle Hill was founded by El Cerrito Trail Trekkers, which was formed in order to build, maintain, publicize and use the little known urban trails of El Cerrito, California and they not only lead local trail hikes for community members to participate in and explore but their main goal is to create new safe trails in safe open spaces so all can enjoy and make sure that paths continue to be cleared of excess brush so the fire danger remains low, which in this day and time is remarkable we've been so lucky in our hillside neighborhood. I've have been to Motorcycle Hill about six times and every time I venture downhill (notice not uphill because I'm no fool as I still have to walk all the way home!) and I get to experience something interesting and new every time I venture along Potrero Avenue high in the hills of El Cerrito to begin my trek each and every time. If you're not careful you will miss the start of the trail from the top of the hill each and every times as it literally is a slim dirt pathway in between two single-level homes. Once you keep walking along the dirt path and see a huge swath of small cactuses growing like bushes to your left, you know you are on the right path. From there you keeping walking straight along a dirt path which I believe was created much longer than the rest of the trail as it hugs the hillside until you hit what is basically a naturally-made observation area that looks over the entire cities of El Cerrito and Richmond and you would see it all if it weren't for the numerous eucalyptus trees blocking your view line. From there you will notice a nice wooden handrail that serves as your starting point and barrier for where you are supposed to walk next, down Motorcycle Hill. which is a series of small switchback dirt trails down the steep incline (hence the name Motorcycle Hill and dirt bikes tend to do this as they head downhill as well). And I do mean steep as you can tell this remains a fairly new trail that hasn't been traveling along by a vast number of trekkers as there remains a long of brush and dirt which can get in the way for a smooth trip down the hill. And just be careful because it can be a trip down this hill, as many a time I found myself slipping to the point where I had to grab on to a tree or even the dirt below to make sure I wasn't rolling down the steep hill. And beware of your shoes as they're going to get really dirty as even on a warm day after walking back and forth down the incline, my shoes were filthy of dry brown dirt. But that's just one of the sacrifices one makes when walking down one of El Cerrito's newest trails. Once you're done you'll find yourself among a number of eucalyptus trees that has been cut down to their stumps on the back side of some residences and then you'll once again find yourself in between a narrow pathway in between two homes, this time on Blake Street. Then you're back in the suburban community from where you once came with passing cars whizzing by. But for a little while, you will be as grateful as I was for this tiny and tranquil oasis among all of the chaotic suburban city life. At Motorcycle Hill, one can enjoy a healthy hike with scenic views of San Francisco Bay and beyond, and we have the El Cerrito Trail Trekkers to thank for all of this.

    Photos
    Motorcycle Hill - Motorcycle Hill

    Motorcycle Hill

    Motorcycle Hill - Motorcycle Hill

    Motorcycle Hill

    Motorcycle Hill - Motorcycle Hill

    See all

    Motorcycle Hill

    Marina Bay Park - parks - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...