Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Lake Merritt

Experience the tranquil beauty of Lake Merritt in Oakland, CA – a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and vibrant community life.

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Lake Merritt

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Lake Merritt is a stunning oasis that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. This picturesque lake, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant wildlife, is an ideal destination for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure alike. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoy a picnic in the park, or explore the diverse ecosystems that thrive here, Lake Merritt promises a delightful experience for all visitors.

A brief summary to Lake Merritt

Oakland, California, US

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views over the lake.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Oakland Museum of California, which is just a short walk away.
Bring a picnic basket to enjoy a delightful meal amidst the beautiful park setting.
Consider renting a bike to explore the entire perimeter of the lake – it's a fantastic way to take in the scenery.
Check the local events calendar for festivals or concerts happening at the lake during your visit.

Getting There

BART

If you're in downtown Oakland, walk to the 12th Street Oakland City Center BART station. Take the BART train towards the Richmond direction. After one stop, get off at the Lake Merritt station. Once you exit the station, turn left onto 1st Avenue and walk about 5 minutes to reach the shores of Lake Merritt.
Bus

From various points in Oakland, you can catch AC Transit Bus #12 or #14, which both have stops near Lake Merritt. Check the AC Transit website or use their app for the nearest bus stop. Ride the bus until you reach the stop at 'Lake Merritt BART'. From there, you can walk towards the lake, which is just a short 5-minute stroll.
Bicycle

If you're in the vicinity of downtown Oakland, consider renting a bike. Use the bike lanes along Broadway or 14th Street heading towards Lake Merritt. There are bike racks available near the lake where you can securely park your bike once you arrive.
Walking

If you're already in a nearby neighborhood like Chinatown or Old Oakland, you can easily walk to Lake Merritt. From Chinatown, head west on 8th Street until you reach Harrison Street. Turn right and continue until you reach the lake. It's about a 20-minute walk.
Ride Share

For a more convenient option, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Simply input 'Lake Merritt, Oakland' as your destination. The drop-off points are typically on the streets surrounding the lake, making it easy to access the waterfront.

Discover more about Lake Merritt

Lake Merritt, located in the vibrant city of Oakland, California, is a stunning urban oasis that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich recreational offerings. This picturesque lake, often referred to as the "Jewel of Oakland," spans approximately 155 acres and is surrounded by a beautiful park that features walking trails, lush gardens, and picnic areas. As you wander along the scenic paths, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the water, with its shimmering surface reflecting the surrounding skyline and majestic trees. The area is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, making it a vibrant hub of activity. The lake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a sanctuary for wildlife. As you explore the surroundings, keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including ducks, herons, and even the occasional swan gliding gracefully across the water. The diverse ecosystems around Lake Merritt make it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. Additionally, the lake is known for its beautiful gardens and flower displays, particularly the stunning Bonsai Garden, which features intricately pruned trees that showcase the artistry of this ancient practice. For those looking to engage in recreational activities, Lake Merritt offers plenty of options. You can rent a paddleboat or kayak to enjoy the serene waters up close, or simply relax on the grassy shores with a good book. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and cultural festivals, adding to the lively atmosphere. With its combination of tranquility, natural beauty, and community spirit, Lake Merritt is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Oakland, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lakeside Park

0.7 km

Experience the tranquil beauty of Lakeside Park in Oakland, California, where nature meets recreation in a picturesque urban setting.

Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)

0.8 km

Discover Wilma Chan Park, an urban oasis in Downtown Oakland offering serene green spaces, walking paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)

Lincoln Square Park

0.9 km

Experience the tranquility of Lincoln Square Park in Downtown Oakland, a perfect urban retreat for relaxation and recreation.

Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

1.1 km

Explore the vibrant Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, a cultural hub celebrating rich traditions and local businesses in the heart of Oakland.

Chinese Garden Park

1.1 km

Explore the tranquil Chinese Garden Park in Oakland, a serene escape with beautiful landscapes, koi ponds, and a touch of cultural heritage.

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza

1.3 km

Explore Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland's vibrant city park, a hub of culture, art, and community events in the heart of downtown.

Oakland Marriott City Center

1.3 km

Discover comfort and convenience at the Oakland Marriott City Center, your ideal destination for business and leisure in Downtown Oakland.

Oakland City Hall

1.3 km

Explore the stunning architecture and vibrant culture at Oakland City Hall, a historic landmark in the heart of Downtown Oakland, California.

8th St & Broadway

1.4 km

Discover the vibrant intersection of 8th St & Broadway in Downtown Oakland, where culture, cuisine, and community converge in a lively urban atmosphere.

Remember Them

1.4 km

Explore the inspiring Remember Them landmark in Oakland, a tribute to courage and resilience through powerful art and history.

Jack London Square

1.6 km

Discover the vibrant waterfront of Jack London Square, a cultural gem in Oakland showcasing dining, shopping, and rich history.

Jack London's Cabin

1.7 km

Discover the legacy of Jack London at his historic cabin in Oakland, California, where literature and nature come alive in a breathtaking waterfront setting.

Ellen Kenna House

1.7 km

Discover the historic Ellen Kenna House in Oakland's East Lake district, a charming landmark showcasing early 20th-century architecture and local culture.

African American Museum and Library at Oakland

1.7 km

Uncover the vibrant history and culture of African Americans at the African American Museum and Library at Oakland, a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

Preservation Park

1.7 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Preservation Park, a historic memorial park in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and cultural reflection.

Unmissable attractions to see

Camron-Stanford House

0.4 km

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Camron-Stanford House, a captivating museum and historical landmark in Oakland, California.

Pine Knoll Park

0.4 km

Experience the serene beauty of Pine Knoll Park in Oakland, California, a perfect destination for relaxation and family-friendly activities amidst nature.

Oakland History Center

0.5 km

Explore Oakland's history at the Oakland History Center, where past and present intertwine in fascinating exhibits and engaging resources.

Oakland Museum of California

0.5 km

Discover California's art, history, and nature at the Oakland Museum of California, a vibrant hub for culture and education in Oakland.

Bonsai Garden

0.5 km

Explore the lush tranquility of Bonsai Garden, Oakland's serene botanical haven featuring exquisite bonsai trees and peaceful landscapes.

The Gardens at Lake Merritt

0.6 km

Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of The Gardens at Lake Merritt, Oakland's serene oasis filled with diverse flora and cultural charm.

Rotary Nature Center

0.7 km

Explore Oakland's Rotary Nature Center - a tranquil oasis offering diverse wildlife and educational experiences amidst beautiful landscapes.

Children's Fairyland

0.8 km

Discover the magic of childhood at Children's Fairyland, a whimsical theme park in Oakland, California, perfect for family fun and imaginative adventures.

Snow Park

0.8 km

Explore the lush landscapes and recreational charm of Snow Park, a tranquil urban oasis in Downtown Oakland, perfect for relaxation and gatherings.

Nipsey Hussle mural (Oakland)

0.9 km

Explore the vibrant Nipsey Hussle mural in Oakland, a powerful tribute to a music icon that inspires visitors with its message of resilience and community empowerment.

Remembrance is Power Mural

0.9 km

Explore the Remembrance is Power Mural in Oakland, a powerful symbol of resilience and cultural heritage, reflecting the community's spirit and history.

The Cathedral of Christ the Light

1.1 km

Discover the architectural splendor and spiritual tranquility of the Cathedral of Christ the Light in Oakland, a must-see destination for every traveler.

The Pergola at Lake Merritt

1.1 km

Discover the charm of The Pergola at Lake Merritt, a historical landmark in Oakland offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere for nature lovers.

Cathedral Building

1.2 km

Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Cathedral Building, a must-see landmark in the heart of Oakland, California.

The Jack London Oak

1.3 km

Explore the historic Jack London Oak in Downtown Oakland, a majestic tribute to the literary great and a serene escape in the urban landscape.

Discover Chop Bar in Oakland - where American comfort food meets vibrant cocktails in a welcoming waterfront setting.

Discover unique fashion at Inner Desires, Oakland's premier boutique for eclectic clothing and accessories in a welcoming atmosphere.

Experience the art of cocktail making at Bar Shiru, Oakland's premier cocktail bar, where unique flavors and a vibrant atmosphere await.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Lake Merritt with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Lake Merritt

A brief summary to Lake Merritt

Local tips

Getting There

BART

Bus

Bicycle

Walking

Ride Share

Unlock the Best of Lake Merritt

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Lake Merritt

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lakeside Park

Wilma Chan Park (formerly Madison Square Park)

Lincoln Square Park

Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce

Chinese Garden Park

Frank H. Ogawa Plaza

Oakland Marriott City Center

Oakland City Hall

8th St & Broadway

Remember Them

Jack London Square

Jack London's Cabin

Ellen Kenna House

African American Museum and Library at Oakland

Preservation Park

Unmissable attractions to see

Camron-Stanford House

Pine Knoll Park

Oakland History Center

Oakland Museum of California

Bonsai Garden

The Gardens at Lake Merritt

Rotary Nature Center

Children's Fairyland

Snow Park

Nipsey Hussle mural (Oakland)

Remembrance is Power Mural

The Cathedral of Christ the Light

The Pergola at Lake Merritt

Cathedral Building

The Jack London Oak

Essential places to dine

The Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill

Portal

Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen

Enssaro Ethiopian Restaurant

Dinner House

MAMA Oakland

Persian Nights Restaurant

Parlour

Shan Dong

Sobre Mesa

Ming's Tasty

Peony Seafood Restaurant

Oakland Street Food Co.

Gum Kuo

Chop Bar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

LAKE VIEW GIFT SHOP

Exotic Gift Shop

Grand Gift Shop

Queen Hippie Gypsy

I Tone

B&Q Shop

Milam Gift Shop

House of Fortune

Oakland Chinese Book Store

Oaklandish

ChinaVille

Oakland gift and smoke shop

Elegant Studio & Boutique

Uptown Station

inner Desires Oakland

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Mad Oak Bar ‘N’ Yard