San Leandro is a charming city popular for its surplus cherry harvests and lively neighborhood. It is situated in Alameda County, California, United States. As of 2023, the population of San Leandro is 84,127.
Like many California coastal towns and cities, San Leandro was originally explored by Spanish missionaries who arrived in the mid-1900s to spread Catholicism.
This vibrant city has a large park system featuring picnic, fishing, and hiking areas. There are so many amenities and activities that can be enjoyed in the parks in San Leandro, CA.
Regardless of what you want to do, you will surely have a good time during your stay in San Leandro.
Here are the best parks in San Leandro, CA.
Parks in San Leandro, CA
1. Marina Park
Marina Park
San Leandro’s Marina Park is one of the best spots for those who want to participate in the great outdoors.
The 30-acre Marina Park borders the San Leandro Shoreline, providing visitors with scenic views of the calm waters. It is undoubtedly among the most fun parks in San Leandro, CA.
It features picnic tables with grilling facilities, a play area, and a workout trail or par course that extends to approximately one mile. In its grassy lawn, soak in the temperature climate while playing frisbee or a game of “pass the ball.”
At Marina Park, you will find the tiny Luster Knight Memorial with its red fire engine-like drinking station. It’s a homage to the man the memorial is named for, a dutiful firefighter during his time.
Due to Marina Park’s convenient location, surplus amenities, and scenic views can get congested on the weekend. If you’d love to avoid the crowd, consider visiting on a weekday or in the morning when it’s less occupied.
Address: 14001 Monarch Bay Dr, San Leandro, CA 94577, United States
2. Root Park
Root Park, opened in 1996, is among downtown San Leandro’s low-key attractions. With its expansive green spaces, the Park is a perfect spot for leisure nature study.
It also has sitting benches and garden beds that offer picturesque views of San Leandro Creek. During the warmer seasons, the Park’s trees provide rejuvenating shades for strolls and walks.
At the entrance of Root Park is the Statue of the Portuguese Immigrants, which aims to celebrate the Portuguese population still living in the city.
Address: San Leandro, CA 94577, United States
3. Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline
Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline
Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline, located along Neptune Drive, is a sheltered cove of natural gems.
This Park, dedicated in 1980, spans 157 acres featuring diverse wildlife and a gorgeous shoreline. Before becoming a regional recreation center, the area was an old trash yard.
Many years later, the site has become a nature conservation property with crystal-clear views of the bay it is named for.
The area’s wetlands and shores house a diverse array of animal species. They draw various outdoor recreation lovers, including bird watchers, amateur photographers, bikers, walkers, runners, and artists.
The shoreline features many paths where you can see birds and animals. Explore the trail and recreational corridor of the Park and find animals residing within the preserve’s original habitat. You can also look up the extensive bird species in flight.
In 2021, Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline opened new amenities, which include a disc golf and a tiny garden for the butterflies stopping by the property.
Address:1600 Neptune Dr, San Leandro, CA 94577, United States
4. Siempre Verde Park
Siempre Verde Park, located at the corner of Park Street and Leornado Boulevard, is one of the most fun parks in San Leandro, CA. It provides open green spaces and recreational facilities for visitors.
There are two half-basketball courts, two picnic areas, two outdoor table tennis courts, two play areas, and restrooms.
Picnic areas at Siempre Verde Park are available for reservation from May 1 to October 31.
Amplified sounds and vehicle access permits are not allowed at this neighborhood park. Inflatables are not allowed in any areas of Siempre Verde Parl.
Address: 455 Park St, San Leandro, CA 94577, United States
5. Don Castro Regional Park
Don Castro Regional Park
The Don Castro Regional Park is a 101-acre urban oasis popular among the residents in Hayward, CA.
The Don Castro Regional Park swimming lagoon is fantastic for a family vacation, with a bathhouse, picnic tables, and a sandy beach.
The lagoon’s water is chlorinated and filtered, so you can swim in Crystal blue waters. Your children can splash and play around the roped-off-shallow area.
Take time to immerse yourself in the scenic view of the Park while strolling or fishing at the San Lorenzo Creek Reservoir.
At Don Castro Regional Park, you may be lucky to catch a trout or catfish and more.
Don Castro Regional Park is in Hayward, CA, 13 minutes from San Leandro, CA.
Address: 22400 Woodroe Ave, Hayward, CA 94541, United States
6. Chabot Park
Chabot Park
If you are looking for solitude and recreation, Chabot Park is a fantastic choice and one of the city’s top attractions. It is reputed to be one of the top parks in San Leandro, CA.
This Park, extending to almost 10 acres, is nestled on the city’s famous hills. It has a volleyball court and an amphitheater.
Allow your children to wander and run free around the grassy field and playground area. Schedule a family gathering at the picnic tables located inside the Park.
Take yourself and your loved ones to Chabot Park during your stay in San Leandro, CA. You will undoubtedly have a pleasant experience.
Address: Estudillo Ave, Sylvian Cir, San Leandro, CA 94577, United States
7. Hayward’s Japanese Gardens
Hayward’s Japanese Gardens
Japanese Gardens, located close to the Hayward Senior Center, is among the must-visit destinations in Hayward. The center has been open for over forty years.
Landscaper designer Kimio Kimura built this 3.5-acre garden using native rocks, stones, and California trees and plantings.
This serene haven is perfect for relaxing strolls while enjoying the lovely views in the area.
Hayward’s Japanese Gardens also features a pavilion and a bridge over a koi pond.
Address: 22373 N 3rd St, Hayward, CA 94546, United States
8. Thrasher Park
Thrasher Park, which is San Leonardo’s oldest Park, was remodeled in 1992. Now, it has a collection of unique amenities, including the San Leornado Historical Railway Society depot and a lighted softball diamond.
The skatepark at Thrasher Park is its distinct feature. It is open and free to use. With its picnic areas, playground, tot lots, grassy areas, and restrooms, Thrasher Park is a hit for a family hangout.
However, you must make reservations for the picnic areas from May 1 to October 31. Thrasher Park is among the best parks in San Leandro, CA.
Address: 1300 Davis St, San Leandro, CA 94577, United States
9. Kennedy Park
Kennedy Park is a well-known attraction among families in Hayward, CA. The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District manages it.
Kennedy Park is a gigantic multi-use Park. It boasts numerous picnic sites, amusement rides, and expansive play areas. Kids will be pumped up by its playground with various swings and slides.
Other exciting activities at Kennedy Park include a ride on the merry-go-round and a train ride on the bright-colored Kennedy Express around the Park.
There is also a petting zoo, pony ride, picnic and activity areas, and a snack bar. The Park is open daily during the summer and on weekends during the rest of the year.
Address:19501 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94541, United States
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10. Chochenyo Park
If you are looking for somewhere near San Leandro to spend quality time with your family, Chochenyo Park is an excellent option.
Chochenyo Park, previously known as Jackson Park, is a tiny municipal Park. It is one of the gorgeous, fun places to bond with your friends and family.
It is a fabulous picnic or stroll place to unburden yourself from daily stress. There are many trees in the Park, coupled with numerous Park benches and some picnic tables.
It is an amazing place for children to have fun, and you won’t have to worry about them because the Park is enormous, making it easy for you to see them wherever they are.
Also, a stunning playground is designed for kids of all ages to enjoy. You can also walk your pet in the Park.
Chochenyo Park is a wonderful place to spend a memorable day.
Address:2430 Encinal Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States
11. Washington Manor Park
Washington Manor Park, situated on 15 acres, offers many fun activities and features. It is one of the best parks in San Leandro, CA.
The Park is a go-to spot for weekend walks, birthday parties, bike rides, and picnics. It has two play structures that are new and old.
The newer play area has many fun elements: a climbing dome, a vertical climbing wall, a bridge, suspended lily pads, monkey bars, three slides, and more. The older structure has two slides, monkey bars, and plenty of ladders:
The Park also has a softball field, some exercise equipment, baseball courts, and a cement loop perfect for cycling and biking.
Bathrooms are located close to the tennis courts and older playground.
Address:14900 Zelma St, San Leandro, CA 94579, United States
12. Memorial State Beach
Memorial State Beach
Memorial State Beach is a state park spread over 80 acres. The Park is one of the most gorgeous in Alameda and one of the best places to relax with your loved ones.
There are many rooms for all types of activity so the chances of you getting bored are slim. There are also plenty of parking spaces.
The features of Memorial State Beach include an area for water sports, swimming, and picnics, a baseball field, and a biking trail.
During the summer, windsurfers come to this beach. It offers lessons and rental sailboards during the weekend.
The Park also hosts a sand sculpture and a sandcastle contest every June. At the east end of the beach, where the Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary is located, you can observe shorebirds and other salt marsh creatures.
The north end of the beach features the Crab Cove Marine Reserve, whose visitor center showcases relics from the rich history of the area formerly known as the “Coney Island of the West.”
Address: 8th Street, Otis Dr, Alameda, CA 94501, United States
13. Alameda Dog Park
Alameda Dog Park is the best place to visit with a four-legged furry buddy. There is abundant space for dogs to run and play while you keep an eye on your pup.
Alameda Dog Park isn’t very congested, so it’s big enough for most dogs to run, exercise and play.
Additionally, there is a separate area for the smaller dogs and tables and chairs for dog owners to sit in. There are trash cans in the Park. You can visit the water fountains whenever you get thirsty.
The Alameda Dog Park is an attractive place to bond with your dog and an opportunity for it to socialize.
Bring your furry friends to Alameda Dog Park if you visit Alameda, CA.
Address: 1302 8th St, Alameda, CA 94501, United States
14. Cannery Park
Cannery Park
Cannery Park is often filled with visitors playing on the grassy fields and observing the ducks waddling around the pond.
There are also many benches for a picnic and a playground with many fun features for all ages.
At the Park’s entrance, you will find a statue honoring one of Hayward’s most prominent residents, Nobel Prize winner Dr Linus Pauling.
Cannery Park is ideal for anyone who wants to escape from it all but still be near enough to explore downtown and the rest of the city.
It’s perfect for families looking for a break from their everyday schedules. Also, it offers a serene oasis for nature lovers.
Address: 125 B St, Hayward, CA 94541, United States
15. Jean Sweeney Open Space Park
Jean Sweeney Open Space Park
Jean Sweeney Open Space Park is a lovely and fascinating playground with many interesting features that will engage kids of all ages.
The Park has outstanding climbing structures, a music play structure, and a giant slide for kids to go down at once. Also, there is a sandlot in the little one’s area and a zip line for the larger kids.
The Park also offers picnic tables, restrooms, and easy parking. Your kids will undoubtedly love the fun that this Park offers.
If you plan to visit this city with kids, don’t forget to bring them to Jean Sweeney Open Space Park.
Address: 1100 Atlantic Ave, Alameda, CA 94501, United States
16. Shoreline Park
Shoreline Park is a fabulous location to spend time with your loved ones. You will find many trails in the city. The trails are suitable for biking and hiking, or you can walk around the park to enjoy the scenery.
Shoreline Park is also perfect for having lunch with your family and friends. The Park is clean and well-maintained, and you can fish here. You don’t need to acquire a fishing license to fish in the Park.
Shoreline Park is an ideal place to unwind and relax, a perfect place to rest, take in some fresh air, take lovely photos, exercise, and ride a bicycle or rollerblade.
You can also walk your dog and allow your children to play in the playground. Make sure you drop by Shoreline Park if you visit Alameda. You will surely love it.
Shoreline Park is in Alameda, CA, 16 minutes from San Leandro, CA.
Address: Highway 61, Alameda, CA 94502, United
17. Tillman Park
Tillman Park
Tillman Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in Alameda. It is a fantastic spot to have a great fun experience and spend time with your loved ones.
This Park has a range of playground equipment, a soccer field, a sandbox, public restrooms, and a lovely grassy area covered by tree branches.
There are many picnic tables and barbeque grills for those who want to do some grilling. The Park is absolutely a terrific place for a family picnic.
Additionally, there is a tiny building with tables and chairs for those who prefer to stay inside.
It also has a great space and a satisfactory lawn for families and dogs to run around.
The soccer fields, however, are divided between the picnic area and the playground, so you don’t have to worry about the children.
Address: 220 Aughinbaugh Way, Alameda, CA 94502, United States
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Plan Your Trip to San Leandro
San Leandro is a hidden gem with plenty to offer locals and tourists. The city is famous for surplus cherry harvests within the Easy Bay region.
When you eventually visit, we recommend you use our list of best parks in San Leandro, CA, for a fun stay.