Beat the heat with a dip in the pool or a trip to the beach.
Summer is here — and there’s no better way to end a day of town tours than by making a splash (literally) at these Bay Area hotspots.
East Bay
#1. San Ramon Aquatic Park (San Ramon)
San Ramon’s huge public aquatic park has everything you need to escape the heat. There’s an Olympic-sized pool for lap swimming plus a water park complete with fountains, slides, and inner tubes. This park even hosts swimming and SCUBA diving camps for kids. But that’s just the start — check out the park’s Splash N’ Dash Inflatable Obstacle Course for more unforgettable summer fun.
#2. The Wave (Dublin)
In Dublin, you’ll find The Wave, a huge community center that fits perfectly with the town’s nickname of “The New American Backyard.” Local swimmers love using the indoor and outdoor lap pools but the Waterpark is the main draw here.
With 6 slides, a separate Splash Zone for kids, and plenty of shaded boardwalk space to relax, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And when you get hungry the concession stand offers a variety of snacks (including vegetarian options). Moving to town with kids? Keep this waterpark in mind for summer birthday parties.
#3. Crown Beach (Alameda)
Locals looking for a laid-back spot to cool off can head to Crown Beach. This 2.5-mile stretch features a bike trail, swimming areas, picnic tables, and fishing spots. Crown Beach is also one of the best places around for kayaking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. Keep an eye on the events calendar so you don’t miss popular Crown Beach festivities like Concerts at the Cove and the annual Sand Castle and Sand Sculpture Contest.
#4. George M. Silliman Community Activity Center (Newark)
Newark’s indoor aquatic center is the perfect place to go for a swim without worrying about getting a sunburn. There’s space for lap swimming and water aerobics plus a lazy river (complete with inner tubes) and multiple water slides. You can take advantage of the indoor water fun year-round, but it’s especially popular during the summer. Consider making a reservation online before you stop by.
Marin County
#5. North Bay Beaches
Living in Marin County means you’ll get to enjoy incredible coastal views all year round. Plus, when you need to beat the heat, you can quickly get to one of the amazing beaches in the North Bay area. Stinson Beach is great for surfing, boogie boarding, picnicking, and spotting dolphins. Can mention there’s a section for dogs.
Locals also love to grab lunch and ice cream at Parkside. Muir Beach is a cove, beach, and lagoon that attracts locals looking for a scenic hike or beachfront BBQ spot. And the only privately owned beach in Northern California, Dillon Beach offers day passes so anyone can enjoy its unbeatable surf. Insider tip — explore the tide pools during low tide for a glimpse at some colorful aquatic creatures.
#6. Tomales Bay
For a kayaking adventure head to Tomales Bay. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent anything you need from one of the local vendors. Once you get out on the calm waters you’ll be able to take in the scenic views of this incredible state park at your own pace.
#7. Hamilton Community Pool (Novato)
In the mood for a pool day? Check out Novato’s state-of-the-art facility. You’ll find plenty of lounge chairs (and umbrellas) for relaxing. There’s a huge pool for water aerobics and splashing around. And parents especially love this pool’s kid zone with its climbing structure and water slide.
South Bay
#8. Raging Waters (San Jose)
San Jose is home to Northern California’s largest waterpark and locals can buy a season pass to visit all summer long. There are countless ways to cool off here — from the wave pool to the thrilling water slides and more. You can even rent a private cabana if you want a shaded spot to simply lounge and people watch.
#9. South Bay Shores (Santa Clara)
Good news for South Bay waterpark enthusiasts — you’ll find another one in Santa Clara. South Bay Shores is located inside California’s Great America amusement park and it offers something for everyone. Kids love the tide pool and splash pad areas while those looking for an adrenaline rush can head straight to the extreme water slides.
#10. Pacifica and Half Moon Bay Beaches
When you want a more low-key way to cool off, hit one of the numerous beaches in Pacifica. Pacifica State Beach is a world-class surfing destination and Rockaway Beach is the place for unbeatable sunset strolls. Nearby, the Half Moon Bay State Beach features 4-miles of sandy coastline perfect for picnicking, fishing and sunbathing. If you want to plan a staycation, consider booking one of the Francis Beach campsites. (Is there anything better than falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves?)
Ready to dive into your suburbs search this summer? Let’s chat! We’re here to help you find the town that checks all of your boxes.