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Middle Harbor Shoreline Park: Oakland's Waterfront Gem

Discover Oakland's waterfront gem: Middle Harbor Shoreline Park offers stunning views, rich history, and outdoor recreation on the San Francisco Bay.

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Middle Harbor Shoreline Park, located on the Oakland waterfront, offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge. Built on the site of a former Naval Supply Depot, this 38-acre park provides walking trails, picnic areas, and a unique blend of natural beauty and maritime history.

A brief summary to Middle Harbor Shoreline Park

  • Monday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience of the San Francisco skyline, Bay Bridge, and maritime activities.
  • Check the park's event schedule for live entertainment at the amphitheater.
  • Explore the park's historical exhibits to learn about the site's past as a Naval Supply Depot.
  • Dress in layers, as the waterfront location can be windy and cool.
  • Be mindful of truck traffic on weekdays due to the park's location within an active port area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-880, take the 7th Street exit towards West Grand Avenue. Turn left onto 7th Street, and continue for about a mile until you reach the intersection with Middle Harbor Road. The park entrance will be at this intersection. Parking is ample and free within the park. Be aware of truck traffic in the area.

  • Public Transport

    While AC Transit bus line 13 no longer directly serves the Middle Harbor area, the West Oakland BART station is the closest public transportation hub. From there, it's approximately a 2-mile ride by taxi, rideshare, or bicycle to the park. A taxi or rideshare from the BART station will cost approximately $10-15. Note that walking from the BART station is not recommended due to heavy traffic and lack of sidewalks.

  • Biking

    Middle Harbor Shoreline Park is accessible by bike, but cyclists should be aware of heavy truck traffic, especially during weekdays. From West Oakland, navigate to 7th Street and head west. Follow 7th Street until you reach Middle Harbor Road, where you'll find the park entrance. There are bike racks available within the park.

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Discover more about Middle Harbor Shoreline Park

Middle Harbor Shoreline Park is a unique recreational space in Oakland, California, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and maritime activity. Situated on the site of the former Oakland Naval Supply Depot, which served as a crucial supply base for the Pacific Fleet during World War II, the park provides visitors with stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the bustling Oakland Seaport. The park's transformation from a naval depot to a public space is a testament to community collaboration and environmental restoration. Following the closure of the Naval Supply Depot in 1998, the land was transferred to the Port of Oakland, which worked with community representatives and scientists to redevelop the area into a 38-acre park. The redevelopment included the restoration of beaches and the creation of a lagoon, providing habitats for various species, including Dungeness crab, flatfish, and shorebirds. Today, Middle Harbor Shoreline Park features over two miles of walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and an amphitheater that hosts live entertainment. Visitors can explore the park's history through interpretive signs and exhibits, including the mast of the USS Oakland and the footprint of Building 122, a former naval warehouse. The Chappell R. Hayes Memorial Observation Tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and maritime operations. The park also provides fishing opportunities and free viewing binoculars for observing bay views and wildlife. While visiting, be aware that the park is located in an industrial area, and you may encounter heavy truck traffic during the week. Despite its industrial surroundings, Middle Harbor Shoreline Park offers a peaceful retreat with unique views and a chance to connect with nature and history.

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