Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk: A Tranquil Nature Escape
Escape to Palo Alto's Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk for stunning wetland views, birdwatching, and a peaceful nature experience.
The Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk in Palo Alto offers a serene retreat into nature, with elevated views of vibrant wetlands teeming with diverse flora and fauna. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching, leisurely strolls, and photography, open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM.
A brief summary to Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk
- Embarcadero Rd, Palo Alto, California, US
- Monday 7 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7 am-9 pm
- Friday 7 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chances to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; many species can be spotted.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on the boardwalk.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are limited facilities on-site.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit to ensure the best experience.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the intersection of Embarcadero Rd and Newell Rd, head east on Embarcadero Rd. Walk for approximately 10 minutes until you reach the Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk on your right. This is a straightforward and scenic walk suitable for most visitors.
-
Public Transport
If arriving by Caltrain at the Palo Alto Station, transfer to SamTrans Bus Route 22 or 35 towards the Stanford Shopping Center. Alight at 'Embarcadero Rd & Newell Rd'. Walk east on Embarcadero Road for about 10 minutes to reach the Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.50. Caltrain tickets vary in price based on the distance traveled, typically ranging from $5 to $11.
-
Car
From US-101 S, take the exit for Embarcadero Road in Palo Alto. Turn right onto Embarcadero Road, and the Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk will be on your right. Free parking is available in the nearby areas. Note that parking can become full.
Discover more about Baylands Observation Deck and Boardwalk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Palo Alto Restoration Area
1.0 km
Explore the rich wildlife and serene landscapes at the Palo Alto Restoration Area, a historical landmark perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.
Chabad Palo Alto
3.1 km
Explore the heart of Palo Alto at Chabad, a vibrant community center offering cultural and educational experiences for all visitors.
Shoreline Lake Boathouse
3.4 km
Discover a serene escape at Shoreline Lake Boathouse, where adventure meets tranquility in Mountain View, California.
Shoreline Lake Events
3.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Shoreline Lake Events, the perfect venue for unforgettable gatherings and peaceful escapes in Mountain View, California.
Google Mountain View - Marine Way
3.6 km
Discover the essence of innovation at Google Mountain View, an iconic tech landmark in Silicon Valley that inspires creativity and progress.
Keddem Congregation
4.0 km
Discover the vibrant community and rich traditions at Keddem Congregation, Palo Alto's welcoming synagogue for all visitors.
Lucie Stern Community Center
4.0 km
Experience community spirit and cultural vibrancy at the Lucie Stern Community Center in Palo Alto, where art and engagement come together.
Adobe Creek
4.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Adobe Creek in Palo Alto, a scenic river perfect for picnics, nature walks, and birdwatching amidst California's vibrant landscapes.
Pedro de Lemos House
4.3 km
Discover the enchanting Pedro de Lemos House, a historical landmark in Palo Alto, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich local heritage.
Shoreline Amphitheatre
4.3 km
Experience live music like never before at Shoreline Amphitheatre, the premier concert venue in Mountain View, California, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Norris House
4.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Norris House in Palo Alto, a beautiful landmark that reflects the architectural elegance of the past.
Pink Bridge
4.4 km
Discover the Pink Bridge in Palo Alto, a stunning historical landmark known for its vibrant color and beautiful surroundings.
Google 1965
4.5 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Google's headquarters in Mountain View, a symbol of innovation and creativity in Silicon Valley.
Crittenden Hill
4.6 km
Explore the breathtaking views and rich history at Crittenden Hill, a captivating landmark in Mountain View, California, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers.
Googleplex
4.6 km
Explore the Googleplex, a symbol of innovation in Silicon Valley, featuring stunning architecture and a vibrant tech culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lucy Evans Baylands Nature Interpretive Center
0.1 km
Explore Palo Alto's Baylands Nature Preserve: Discover diverse wildlife, scenic trails, and a serene escape into a unique salt marsh ecosystem at the Lucy Evans Interpretive Center.
Baylands Nature Preserve
0.3 km
Discover a serene escape in Palo Alto's Baylands Nature Preserve: a vast marshland teeming with wildlife, offering scenic trails and a tranquil connection to nature along the San Francisco Bay.
Byxbee Park
1.4 km
Explore Byxbee Park: Where art meets nature in a reclaimed landscape with stunning bay views, perfect for walking, birding, and enjoying public art.
Martin Luther King Park
1.9 km
A vibrant East Palo Alto park with sports fields, play areas, and access to the scenic Bay Trail.
Skimmers at Shoreline
2.9 km
Discover diverse birdlife and scenic trails at Skimmers at Shoreline in Mountain View's Shoreline Park, a unique urban oasis transformed from a former landfill into a thriving ecological space.
Ravenswood Open Space Preserve
2.9 km
Explore Ravenswood Open Space Preserve: A scenic Bay Area escape for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying nature's tranquility.
Henry W. Seale Park
3.0 km
A tranquil Palo Alto park featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities for a relaxing day outdoors.
Palo Alto Art Center
3.5 km
Explore diverse art exhibitions, engage in creative programs, and connect with the community at the Palo Alto Art Center.
Shoreline at Mountain View
3.6 km
Discover a revitalized landscape at Shoreline at Mountain View, where outdoor adventures, diverse wildlife, and vibrant events converge in a unique Bay Area destination.
The Magic Forest
3.6 km
Discover a peaceful redwood grove in Palo Alto's Rinconada Park, a tribute to a teacher's love for storytelling and nature.
Rengstorff House
3.6 km
Experience Victorian elegance at Mountain View's oldest home, the Rengstorff House, a beautifully restored 1867 Italianate mansion in Shoreline Park.
Rinconada Cultural Park
3.7 km
Discover Rinconada Cultural Park in Palo Alto: a vibrant hub offering recreational activities, cultural events, and natural beauty for families and visitors alike since 1922.
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
3.9 km
Explore the enchanting Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, where science meets fun for a day of family-friendly learning and adventure.
The Foster Museum
4.1 km
Explore watercolor wilderness Journeys at The Foster Museum in Palo Alto, uniting art, nature, and a passion for conservation.
Theophilus Allen House
4.2 km
Discover Palo Alto's architectural gem: The Theophilus Allen House, a landmark of Craftsman design and early 20th-century history.
Essential places to dine
Quattro Restaurant and Bar
3.3 km
Experience exquisite Californian-Italian cuisine at Quattro Restaurant and Bar in East Palo Alto's luxurious Four Seasons Hotel.
Shoreline Lake American Bistro
3.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Shoreline Lake American Bistro – where great food meets breathtaking views in Mountain View.
Michaels Restaurant
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Michaels Restaurant—perfectly located by the scenic shoreline of Mountain View.
Back A Yard Caribbean Grill
4.6 km
Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine at Back A Yard Caribbean Grill in Menlo Park – where every bite takes you on a flavorful journey.
Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery
4.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of Vietnam at Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery in Palo Alto - where culinary excellence meets artistic beauty.
Thyme
4.9 km
Discover Thyme in Palo Alto: Where Fine Dining Meets Innovative New American Cuisine for an Unforgettable Culinary Experience.
Caffe Riace
4.9 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Caffe Riace in Palo Alto – where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Il Fornaio
4.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Fornaio in Palo Alto - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Protégé
5.0 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine at Protégé in Palo Alto – where innovation meets tradition in every exquisite dish.
Cafe Pro Bono
5.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cafe Pro Bono in Palo Alto - where fine dining meets Mediterranean charm.
Rooh
5.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of India at Rooh in Palo Alto—where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Naschmarkt - Palo Alto
5.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Naschmarkt - Palo Alto; where tradition meets modern culinary excellence in a cozy setting.
Italico Ristorante Pizzeria
5.1 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Italico Ristorante Pizzeria in Palo Alto - where every meal is a celebration of flavors.
Ethel's Fancy
5.1 km
Discover the innovative cuisine at Ethel's Fancy in Palo Alto – where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Anatolian Kitchen
5.1 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at Anatolian Kitchen in Palo Alto - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nordstrom Rack
2.7 km
Shop the latest styles at Nordstrom Rack in East Palo Alto, where affordability meets high-quality fashion for the whole family.
Kodesh Judaica and Gifts
3.1 km
Discover the essence of Jewish culture at Kodesh Judaica and Gifts in Palo Alto, where tradition meets contemporary charm.
Kings Smoke Shop & clothing
3.5 km
Explore Kings Smoke Shop & Clothing in East Palo Alto for unique clothing and smoking products, blending local culture with diverse shopping options.
Charleston Plaza
4.3 km
Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Charleston Plaza in Mountain View, California – a vibrant destination for all.
Rengstorff Center
4.5 km
Explore the Rengstorff Center in Mountain View: A vibrant shopping destination with diverse stores, delicious dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Total Wine & More
4.6 km
Discover an extensive selection of wines, spirits, and craft beers at Total Wine & More in Mountain View, California.
Charleston Shopping Center
4.7 km
Explore the vibrant Charleston Shopping Center in Palo Alto for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience that captures the essence of California culture.
Google Store Mountain View
4.8 km
Discover the cutting-edge technology and immersive experience at Google Store Mountain View, where innovation meets customer engagement.
G V Palo Alto
5.0 km
Explore G V Palo Alto, a boutique full of unique treasures and local charm in the heart of Palo Alto, perfect for discerning tourists.
Cielo
5.0 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and accessories at Cielo, a charming boutique in the heart of Palo Alto's Downtown North.
Five Ten Gifts
5.1 km
Explore Five Ten Gifts in Palo Alto, where unique treasures await in a charming atmosphere, perfect for memorable souvenirs and gifts.
Dolma Tibetan Handicraft
5.1 km
Discover unique Tibetan handicrafts, fashion accessories, and women's clothing at Dolma Tibetan Handicraft in Palo Alto.
The RealReal
5.1 km
Discover sustainable luxury at The RealReal, Palo Alto's leading consignment shop for high-end fashion and unique style finds.
Cassis
5.1 km
Explore Cassis in Palo Alto for a unique shopping experience featuring curated clothing and exquisite jewelry that embodies California's stylish essence.
The Willows Market
5.2 km
Explore The Willows Market in Menlo Park for a delightful selection of gourmet foods, local wines, and artisanal products in a charming setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cocktailbar Santana
4.6 km
Discover Cocktailbar Santana in Menlo Park: Where eclectic cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
President's Terrace
5.0 km
Experience innovative cocktails and delightful dishes at President's Terrace, the vibrant bar and restaurant in the heart of Palo Alto.
Fred's Place
5.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Fred's Place, Mountain View's go-to sports bar for drinks, karaoke, and unforgettable fun.
Vino Locale
5.0 km
Vino Locale: A wine bar and restaurant in Palo Alto, offering exquisite wines, delicious small bites, and vibrant live music in a cozy atmosphere.
Moods. Wine Bar
5.1 km
Discover Moods. Wine Bar, Palo Alto's cozy spot for exquisite wines and craft beers, where every sip speaks of California's rich vineyard heritage.
SliderBar Restaurant
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at SliderBar Restaurant in Palo Alto, a perfect spot for food lovers and craft beer enthusiasts.
Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo Alto
5.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hidden Tap And Barrel in Palo Alto – a haven for craft beer lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
O'Malley's Sports Pub
5.2 km
Discover O'Malley's Sports Pub in Mountain View, a lively pub offering delicious food, an impressive drink selection, and an energetic sports atmosphere.
The Wine Room
5.3 km
Experience the best of fine wines and delectable tapas at The Wine Room, Palo Alto's premier wine bar.
Scotty's Bar & Grill
5.3 km
Scotty's Bar & Grill in Palo Alto offers delicious grilled dishes, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and relaxation.
The Emerald Hour
5.4 km
Discover The Emerald Hour, a vibrant cocktail bar in Mountain View, offering unique drinks and delightful culinary experiences in a chic atmosphere.
The Patio @ Rudy's
5.4 km
Experience the ultimate blend of sports, dining, and nightlife at The Patio @ Rudy's in Palo Alto, where every game is a celebration.
Sports Page
5.5 km
Dive into the exciting ambiance of Sports Page: a sports bar where great food, live music, and thrilling games come together in Mountain View.
MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
5.7 km
Discover the culinary delights of MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar in Palo Alto, a premier destination for American cuisine, steak, and fine wines.
Chili's Grill & Bar
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex and American dishes at Chili's Grill & Bar in Mountain View, a family-friendly dining destination.