Background

McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore: A Bayfront Sanctuary

Discover stunning bay views, diverse wildlife, and recreational trails at this urban shoreline park, a testament to conservation efforts.

4.4

McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore, stretching along 8.5 miles of the San Francisco Bay's eastern shoreline, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility. Once marred by landfill and industrial development, decades of conservation efforts transformed it into a haven for wildlife and recreation, with stunning views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

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; the park is home to numerous bird species.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Check for park events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike the trails, as some areas can be uneven.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach or at one of the many scenic viewpoints.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to the North Berkeley Station. From there, you can 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. AC Transit single fares are around $2.50. BART fares from San Francisco to Berkeley range from $3-5.

  • Walking

    From downtown Berkeley, head west towards the waterfront via University Avenue or Gilman Street. The walk is approximately 2 miles and offers scenic views along the way. Follow the bike paths leading directly to McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore.

  • Driving

    From I-80, take the University Avenue exit towards the Bay. Parking is available at the corner of University Avenue and West Frontage Road, in the unpaved lot behind the Seabreeze Market, along University Avenue between West Frontage Road and Marina Boulevard, and along the unpaved shoulder of Marina Boulevard. Parking availability can be limited, especially on weekends. Parking fees may apply.

Unlock the Best of McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore

McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore is a testament to the power of community action and environmental stewardship. This 1,833-acre park extends along the eastern edge of San Francisco Bay, from Richmond to Oakland, offering breathtaking views and diverse recreational opportunities. Originally known as Eastshore State Park, it was renamed in 2012 to honor Sylvia McLaughlin, a co-founder of Save The Bay, whose tireless efforts were crucial in preserving this precious shoreline. In the mid-20th century, the East Bay faced rapid industrial growth and waste accumulation. McLaughlin, alarmed by the dumping of waste into the bay, rallied support to form Save San Francisco Bay Association (later Save the Bay) in 1961. For years, the Santa Fe Railroad Company sought to develop the land commercially, but faced legal challenges from conservationists. The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) gradually acquired the land, culminating in 1998. Today, EBRPD manages the park under a 30-year agreement with California State Parks. The park's landscape reflects both natural processes and human intervention. It encompasses tidal marshes, mudflats, and restored wetlands, providing habitat for diverse bird species and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the shoreline on foot or by bicycle via the San Francisco Bay Trail, a multi-use path that traverses the park's entire length. Popular activities include hiking, biking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Several access points along I-80, including those at Central Avenue in Richmond, Buchanan Street in Albany, and Gilman and University Avenues in Berkeley, make the park easily accessible. The park also features areas like the Albany Bulb, a former dumpsite transformed into a unique public space with art installations. Ongoing restoration projects, such as the Albany Beach Habitat Restoration, aim to enhance the park's ecological value and recreational amenities.

Popular Experiences near McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore

Popular Hotels near McLaughlin Eastshore State Seashore

Select Currency