Alviso Marina County Park: Gateway to the Bay
Discover Alviso Marina County Park: A bayside escape offering bird watching, boating, hiking, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and its unique salt marsh ecosystem.
Alviso Marina County Park, a 20.6-acre bayside haven, serves as the primary gateway to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Nestled along Alviso Slough, where the Guadalupe River meets the bay, the park is bordered by vibrant salt ponds and marshes, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and diverse wildlife. Once a bustling 19th-century port and later a toxic drainage site for mercury mines, Alviso has transformed into a serene environmental refuge. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, bird watching, and boating, with access to regional trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail and the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail. The park's boardwalks, pathways, and boat launch provide access to the unique ecosystem, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of the Bay Area. Keep an eye out for the pink salt ponds, a unique phenomenon caused by algae thriving in high-salinity environments.
A brief summary to Alviso Marina County Park
- 1195 Hope St, Alviso, Alviso, California, 95002, US
- +1408-262-6980
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months to witness the vibrant pink coloration of the salt ponds, caused by algae thriving in the high-salinity environment.
- Bring binoculars for optimal bird watching, as the park is home to a diverse array of species, including migratory birds and endangered species.
- Check the tide charts before boating to avoid getting stuck in low tide, especially when navigating Alviso Slough.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) bus route #58 stops near the park at the intersection of Liberty and Taylor, about a 0.5-mile walk to Alviso Marina County Park. From the bus stop, walk southwest on N Taylor St toward Gold St, turn right onto Gold St, left onto Elizabeth St, and right onto Hope St. The park entrance will be at the end of Hope St.
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Driving
From Highway 237, take the North First Street exit. Turn right onto North First Street (which becomes North Taylor). Turn right onto Gold Street, then left onto Elizabeth Street, and finally right onto Hope Street. Follow Hope Street to the park entrance. Parking is free during regular park hours.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in the Alviso district to the park entrance at 1195 Hope St typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on demand and surge pricing.
Discover more about Alviso Marina County Park
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