Things To Do
Hook Fish Co. at Proof Lab Beer Garden
Delicious fish restaurant and market!
Bar Bocce
A Sausalito water front hangout with fire pits, bocce courts, and fantastic views of Richardson Bay!
Fieldwork Brewing Company - Corte Madera
A north bay outpost for one of our favorite East bay breweries!
Muir Woods National Monument
Visit giant coast redwoods! Only 20 minutes from The Acqua Hotel in Mill Valley
Old Mill Park
Short on time but still want to see some Redwoods? Visit lovely Old Mill Park.
Dipsea Trail
Looking to get some steps in this weekend? The Dipsea Trail to Stinson Beach is an amazing hike through the famous northern California redwoods with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. The trailhead is ~20 minutes from the Acqua Hotel, so easily accessible if you're staying there. Pro tip: to shorten the trail, hike to Stinson Beach, enjoy an amazing grilled cheese from the stand by the water, then take the Route 61 bus back to Mill Valley.
Explore Lake Merritt!
Less than half a mile from our place in Oakland, Lake Merritt is one of our favorite places to relax with friends during the summer. The paved loop around is ~3.5 miles long and great for running or a casual stroll. Fun Fact: it's also the nation's oldest wildlife refuge! You'll find tons of great shops and restaurants around the entire lake - we recommend Room 389, Clio's Bookstore & Bar, Ensarro Ethiopian, Red Bay Coffee, Grand Lake Kitchen, and Portal!
Stroll Piedmont Avenue
This cute street is walking distance from our apartment, and full of shopping, eats, and historical architecture. Favorite haunts include Spectator Books, Cato's Bar & Grill, Geta Sushi, mensho ramen, R&R Sushi & Bowls, Me & Jungle Cafe, Fenton's Creamery, and Prism Boutique.
Parche
We love this restaurant! Parche is a stylish Oakland-based restaurant offers Colombian-inspired eats, vegetarian options, small plates, and cocktails. Guaranteed good time!
Original Pattern Brewing
If you're spending any time in the East Bay during your trip, don't skip Original Pattern! One of our favorite local breweries. Safe bet that you can find some someone from our Oakland crew here on any given Saturday.
Ming's Tasty
The best -- and we mean BEST -- dim sum in Oakland's Chinatown. Lines get long, but it's oh so worth it.
Aburaya
Punk Japanese fried chicken spot. Try the Karachi honey.