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Aquatic Park: A Berkeley Waterfront Oasis

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Discover a waterfront haven in Berkeley's Aquatic Park: recreation, nature, and scenic views await!

Aquatic Park in Berkeley offers a unique blend of recreation and natural beauty. Created in the 1930s, the park features a mile-long lagoon, walking and biking trails, a playground, and a disc golf course, making it a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Aquatic Park

  • 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 Aquatic Park.

  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lagoon; there are plenty of benches and grassy areas.
  • Visit during early mornings or late afternoons for the best light for photography.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially ducks and various bird species.
  • Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lagoon from the water.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Berkeley, head south on Shattuck Avenue, continue for about 0.6 miles until you reach University Avenue. Turn left onto University Avenue and walk for another 0.6 miles. The entrance to Aquatic Park will be on your right at 80 Bolivar Dr. This is about a 15-minute walk.

  • Public Transport

    If you're near the Downtown Berkeley BART station, take the AC Transit bus #18 towards the 'Berkeley Marina' and get off at the 'Aquatic Park' stop. The bus ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to the park entrance at 80 Bolivar Dr. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.35.

  • Driving

    From I-80, take the University Avenue exit east. Continue on University Avenue until you reach Bolivar Drive. Turn right onto Bolivar Drive, and Aquatic Park will be on your left at 80 Bolivar Dr. Limited free parking is available on the east side of the park.

Discover more about Aquatic Park

Aquatic Park, located in Berkeley, California, is a 100-acre public park that provides a tranquil escape from the urban environment. Its centerpiece is an artificial lagoon, formed during the construction of the Eastshore Freeway in the 1930s. The park was developed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and opened in 1937, establishing recreational space along the Berkeley shoreline.The park offers a variety of activities. A 2.3-mile accessible loop trail encircles the park, inviting walkers, bikers, and nature observers. The lagoon is used for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. "Dream Land for Kids," a large playground with wooden castles and structures, provides a space for children to explore. A disc golf course is also available.Aquatic Park is also a haven for wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot various avian species, especially waterfowl attracted to the lagoon. The park's east shoreline represents the original shoreline of the San Francisco Bay.While swimming and fishing are not allowed in the lagoon, the park's blend of recreational activities and natural beauty continues to make it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
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