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McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore: A Bayfront Oasis

Discover stunning bay views, diverse wildlife, and recreational trails at this unique urban shoreline park, stretching along the East Bay.

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Stretching 8.5 miles along the San Francisco Bay, McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility. This shoreline park features restored wetlands, tidal marshes, and scenic trails with stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a haven for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

A brief summary to McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore

  • Monday 5 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-10 pm
  • Friday 5 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic areas.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for quieter trails and stunning sunsets.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the beach.
  • Check the weather forecast, as coastal fog can roll in unexpectedly.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) towards Richmond. Get off at the North Berkeley Station. From there, you can either walk (about 1.5 miles) or take the AC Transit bus #51B towards the Berkeley Marina. Get off at the stop nearest to the park entrance. Check the AC Transit schedule for bus timings and fares. AC Transit fares typically cost around $2.50 for a single ride.

  • Driving

    If driving from downtown San Francisco, take US-101 S and merge onto I-80 E towards Berkeley. Follow I-80 E for about 11 miles. Take the exit toward University Ave and merge onto University Ave. Continue on University Ave until you reach the intersection with Oxford St. Turn left onto Oxford St and follow it until you reach the entrance to McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore. Parking is available at various locations within the park, and fees may apply. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $2-5 per hour.

  • Walking

    From downtown Berkeley, head towards the waterfront by taking University Ave to the Marina. The walk is approximately 2 miles and offers scenic views along the way. There are pedestrian paths leading directly to McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore. Ensure you are aware of your surroundings and follow pedestrian safety guidelines.

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Discover more about McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore

McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore is a remarkable urban oasis, extending 8.5 miles along the eastern shoreline of the San Francisco Bay, from Richmond to Oakland. The park's creation was the result of decades of citizen efforts to protect the bay as a public space. In October 2012, it was renamed to honor Sylvia McLaughlin, co-founder of Save The Bay, recognizing her pivotal role in preserving this precious resource. The park encompasses 1,854 acres of uplands and tidelands, offering a diverse landscape of natural wetlands, restored habitats, and former landfills transformed into thriving ecosystems. Visitors can explore tidal marshes, mudflats, and beaches, all while enjoying panoramic views of the bay. The San Francisco Bay Trail runs through the park, providing a scenic route for walkers, bikers, and wheelchair users. McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. The park's seasonal wetlands provide habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl, while blackbirds, sparrows, and finches flit among the willows. Keep an eye out for jackrabbits and meadow voles as you explore the park's trails. The park's history is intertwined with efforts to combat pollution and development along the bay. Once a site of landfills and industrial activity, the area has undergone extensive restoration to create a harmonious balance between nature and recreation. Today, visitors can appreciate the beauty of the restored Berkeley Meadow, a former landfill transformed into a thriving coastal prairie. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a challenging bike ride, or a chance to connect with nature, McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore offers something for everyone.

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