Watermelon Rock: A Slice of Alameda History
Discover the whimsical Watermelon Rock on Doolittle Drive, a vibrant and quirky landmark that embodies the unique spirit of Alameda and the East Bay with its colorful roadside charm.
Watermelon Rock, a quirky and beloved landmark, has been a fixture on the Doolittle Drive shoreline in Oakland for decades. This large, semi-circular concrete slab, painted to resemble a slice of watermelon, has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Originally painted as an orange slice in 1983, it was soon transformed into the watermelon we know today. The rock's vibrant colors and playful design offer a cheerful contrast to the industrial landscape, making it a popular spot for photographs and a reminder of the community's unique spirit. Despite occasional complaints and attempts to alter its appearance, the Watermelon Rock has always been restored to its fruity glory by anonymous artists, adding to its mystique and charm. It's more than just a roadside attraction; it's a symbol of Alameda's quirky character and a testament to the power of community creativity.
A brief summary to Watermelon Rock
- Doolittle Dr, Oakland, California, 94621, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting to capture memorable photos of the vibrant colors of Watermelon Rock.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline for a scenic walk or birdwatching.
- Check the Watermelon Rock's Facebook page for community updates, events, and the latest on its ever-changing appearance.
Getting There
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Driving
From Oakland International Airport, follow Airport Drive and turn left onto Doolittle Drive. Continue along Doolittle Drive for approximately 2 miles. Watermelon Rock will be visible on the right-hand side, along the shoreline of San Leandro Bay. Limited street parking is available along Doolittle Drive. Be mindful of parking restrictions and traffic. Several airport parking facilities are located nearby on Doolittle Drive, such as iParkNTravel and Expresso Airport Parking, with rates typically ranging from $12-$20 per day.
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Public Transport
From downtown Oakland, take the BART to the Coliseum Station. From the Coliseum Station, transfer to AC Transit bus line 73 towards San Leandro BART. Get off at the Doolittle Drive stop. Walk east along Doolittle Drive for about 0.5 miles (approximately 10 minutes) until you reach Watermelon Rock on your right. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.50. Alternatively, from Fruitvale BART station, AC Transit line 21 will take you to Island Dr & Doolittle Dr, which is a 30 minute walk to Watermelon Rock.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Oakland International Airport, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Watermelon Rock will cost approximately $15-$25, depending on traffic and demand. The ride takes about 5-10 minutes. Simply provide 'Watermelon Rock, Doolittle Drive, Oakland' as your destination.
Discover more about Watermelon Rock
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