Alameda

The island city of Alameda is like a charming small town tucked into a major metropolitan area. Its collection of historic neighborhoods, modern developments, and boutique shopping areas provide its nearly 80,000 residents with everything they could need. Alameda’s strong community spirit also means a host of street fairs and festivals throughout the year. What started out as a peninsula became two islands (Alameda and Bay Farm) when the Port of Oakland was dredged for increased shipping. They’re connected to each other and the Bay Area mainland by two tunnels and several bridges as well as the ferry, which provides some of the best bay sight-seeing around. Very easy access to the Oakland airport means the world is your oyster, should you ever want to get away from home. 

As you’d expect on an island, Alameda has plenty of waterfront activities. Whether you like beaches or boating or just gazing at the water, you’ll find it here—there’s even a waterfront dog park. One of the best views of San Francisco is at the old Alameda Naval Air base, which is now host to a collection of wineries and distillers where you can sit and sip and admire the view. The city has so much small-town charm that it was chosen as the filming location for the 1990 comedy “The Spirit of ‘76” with very little set dressing.

Attractions

The massive monthly flea market at one end of the naval base is one of the best places in the Bay Area to find absolutely unique gifts. After you’re shopped out, go wine tasting at nearby Rock Wall Winery or try a flight of vodkas at St. George Distillery. History buffs should tour the U.S.S. Hornetaircraft carrier (there’s even a Halloween haunted tour). The annual Fourth of July parade is touted as the second oldest and longest in the nation and is absolutely not to be missed.