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Monkey Island, Berkeley Travel Guide

4.5 (46)

A charming Berkeley park offering a peaceful escape with open green space, perfect for picnics, dog walks, and community gatherings.

Monkey Island is a charming neighborhood park in Berkeley, California, offering a peaceful retreat with its open lawn, landscaping, and community atmosphere. Perfect for picnics, dog walking, and relaxation, it's a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Monkey Island

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Monkey Island.

  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park and nearby Claremont neighborhood.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a pleasant outdoor experience.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Berkeley, take AC Transit bus number 67 towards the Claremont area. Board the bus at the nearest stop on Shattuck Avenue. Get off at the 'Claremont Blvd & Ashby Ave' stop. From there, walk north on Claremont Boulevard for about 0.5 miles. Monkey Island will be on your right within the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve. A one-way fare is approximately $2.50.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Shattuck Avenue and Durant Avenue in downtown Berkeley, head south on Shattuck Avenue, then turn left onto Durant Avenue. Continue until you reach Telegraph Avenue, then turn right. Turn left onto Claremont Boulevard. Continue walking straight for about 1.5 miles. Monkey Island will be on your left, located within the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve.

  • Driving

    From I-80 E, take exit 23 for University Ave toward Berkeley. Turn left onto University Ave and continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach Claremont Blvd. Turn right onto Claremont Blvd, and Monkey Island will be on your left. Street parking is generally available, but check for restrictions. Parking nearby can range from free to $22.

Discover more about Monkey Island

Monkey Island, despite its curious name, is a delightful 0.3-acre park nestled in the Claremont neighborhood of Berkeley, California. This flat, open lawn area, surrounded by landscaping, provides a welcoming green space for the community. The park's history dates back to the early 1900s when local farmers brought their cattle to a natural spring in the area. In 1906, with the development of the Claremont Court subdivision, the area was transformed into a community hub. While the park isn't actually an island and doesn't house any monkeys, it offers a serene environment perfect for various activities. Visitors can spread out a blanket for a picnic, toss a frisbee, or simply relax and socialize. The park's flat terrain makes it ideal for unstructured play, and the trees along the edges provide light shade. Dog owners appreciate the open space for walking their pets and the welcoming atmosphere for dogs to socialize.Monkey Island fosters a strong sense of community, with locals gathering for picnics, games, and enjoying the natural beauty. Though a large Monkey tree, planted in the 1920s, was removed due to safety concerns, the park remains a cherished spot for relaxation and recreation. Open from 6 am to 10 pm daily, Monkey Island offers a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature in the heart of Berkeley.
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