Bikeable summer fun, close to home
Albany Beach, Albany
For a nearly car-free trail ride from Richmond, hop on the Bay Trail at the Richmond Marina and continue south. Check out the many shorebird species that live in the mudflats and wetlands year round. Enjoy the only intersection crossing on the whole ride at Rydin Road and Central Avenue. The very first protected intersection along the Bay Trail, it opened in 2018 thanks to the support of Bike East Bay members and partners. At Buchanan Street, take a right turn toward the water and follow the path to the beach.
From Berkeley, use the bicycle and pedestrian bridge at Aquatic Park to cross over to the Bay Trail. Pick up sandwiches and snacks at Seabreeze—locals recommend the seafood options. Continue north, taking a left at Gilman Street. Enjoy the brand new segment of the Bay Trail running along the water behind Golden Gate Fields. Instead of a climb through the race track parking lot, you can now pedal up an easy grade with spectacular views of the Bay. Follow the path right to the beach, where you’ll find lots of bike racks and brand new restrooms.
Whatever way you reach the beach, the many Bay Trail improvements advocated by Bike East Bay over the years make for a safe and enjoyable ride for people of all ages.
Crown Beach, Alameda
Alameda’s Crown Beach is one of the best destinations in the Bay, and just a short bike ride away from Fruitvale BART. As you roll onto the island down Fruitvale Avenue and Broadway, a quick detour to Park Street will present you with an array of perfect picnic takeout options, including delicious sandwiches from The Sandwich Board or the famed burgers, salads, and fried chicken at Scolari’s. Riding along the Shoreline Drive protected bike lane, you can stop to swim anywhere, though the best bike parking is at the intersections of Grand or Westline.
While you’re in Alameda, make it a loop ride to check out the new Cross Alameda Trail. From the beach, head west to reach Main Street, where you can pick up the trail or take new bike lanes at Alameda Point out to Spirits Alley. Pick up your beverage of choice from Faction Brewing, Rockwall Winery, or St. George Spirits to finish out your day as you roll back across the island.
Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Richmond
Take a day trip and explore rugged shorelines and trail riding, or bring a fishing pole to try your luck off the pier at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline. Start in downtown Richmond for a 7 mile ride north via city streets and trails, or set out at the Dotson Family Marsh Staging Area for a totally car-free trail ride.
The beach at Point Pinole is located at the northeast corner of the park. Soak in the view up the coast towards Rodeo on a clear day. You might catch intrepid fishers with gear loaded onto cargo trikes, headed to the fishing pier on the northern end of Point Pinole Trail. Almost all the trails at Point Pinole are open to bikes; most are unpaved but bikeable fire roads. Find a nice spot for a picnic under any of the shady eucalyptus groves, and explore the remnants of this park’s previous life as a dynamite plant.
This article is part of RideOn, Bike East Bay’s member magazine. Want to join the movement? Become a member or donate today!