Top 15 Attractions and Activities in San Leandro, CA

Similar to many coastal cities in California, San Leandro was initially explored by Spanish missionaries in the mid-18th century with the goal of disseminating Catholic teachings.

Situated in Alameda County, San Leandro boasts a population of approximately 90,000 residents as recorded in the last census.

The city enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year and is bordered by mountains to the east and expansive wetlands and coastline to the west.

In addition to a plethora of activities within city limits, excursions to nearby San Francisco and Oakland are favored ways for visitors to enhance their experience in the region.

Outlined below are 15 activities to engage in while visiting San Leandro, California.

1. Casa Peralta

Casa Peralta stands as one of San Leandro’s notable historical landmarks, conveniently situated on West Estudillo Avenue near the downtown district.

Constructed nearly two centuries ago, the residence was initially home to descendants of the area’s early Spanish settlers.

This site is particularly recognized for its classic mission-style architecture and the imported tiles illustrating the adventures of the legendary Don Quixote.

The home is not accessible every day, thus it is advisable to verify their schedule prior to planning a visit.

When accessible, knowledgeable guides provide tours of the premises that typically last a duration of one to two hours.

2. Monarch Bay Golf Club

Despite the Bay Area’s chilly winters, the climate remains nearly ideal for outdoor activities such as golf for the majority of the year.

Located on East 14th Street in San Leandro, Monarch Bay Golf Club offers two varied courses, appealing to both novice and experienced golfers.

Each course provides breathtaking bay views from nearly every hole. The expansive 18-hole Tony Lema Course aims to replicate the links-style courses found in Europe.

Stretching over 7,000 yards, it presents a challenge even for accomplished players.

For seniors, beginners, and families with children, the par-3 9-hole Marina Course serves as an excellent alternative, typically taking about 90 minutes to complete.

3. The San Leandro Farmers’ Market

The San Leandro Farmers’ Market is a beloved seasonal event that operates from Spring to Fall.

This market showcases the finest locally and regionally cultivated produce, along with fresh flowers, baked goods, prepared dishes, and artisanal crafts.

Located in downtown on Parrott Street, it often features additional entertainment, such as live music, wine and food tastings, cooking classes, and various children’s activities like art sessions and face-painting.

The operational season can vary, hence it is recommended to verify online or consult a local resident prior to attending.

4. Take a Self-Guided Walking Historical Tour

Downtown San Leandro is rich in historic architecture. For those inclined to explore on foot, many sites can be observed within just a few hours.

An immense earthquake in 1868 resulted in the destruction of many original structures, yet their locations and historic significance are largely preserved by local authorities and the historical society.

The historical County Courthouse served as the County Seat for over two decades in the mid-19th century, with its former location found at the southwest intersection of Davis and Clarke Streets.

For a comprehensive list of nearby historic sites, refer to the municipal website.

5. Daniel Best House

The Daniel Best House, also situated on Clarke Street, is regarded as one of the city’s most overlooked historical sites.

This residence was constructed over 150 years ago and served as the childhood home of Daniel Best, a notable tinkerer and inventor who contributed to innovations in the emerging tractor and agricultural equipment sectors.

Best’s son merged his father’s company with another local manufacturer, culminating in the establishment of Caterpillar.

Today, CAT is recognized as the world’s leading producer of mining, agricultural, and industrial machinery, thus rendering this home an intriguing piece of local heritage worth visiting.

6. Marina Park

For those seeking to enjoy nature without the travel time to distant coastal areas, San Leandro’s Marina Park offers a splendid option.

Covering nearly 30 acres off Fairway Drive, the park includes panoramic water views, BBQ facilities, sheltered seating areas, a playground, and expansive lawns ideal for energetic children.

Due to its advantageous location and numerous amenities, the park can become congested on weekends. Therefore, if you wish to avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the day or on weekdays when attendance is generally lower.

7. Cherry Festival

The Cherry Festival in San Leandro is a much-anticipated annual celebration held on West Estudillo Avenue near Pelton Plaza.

Primarily a tribute to cherries in all their delightful forms, this event has historically included a car show, food trucks, live music, a beer garden, and organized children’s activities.

According to local reports, this event has been a longstanding tradition for over a century, making it a favorite among both city residents and visitors.

Parking can sometimes be challenging, so using public transport is advisable if you are within the city.

8. Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline

Although it is situated just outside the downtown area, adjacent to a historic landfill, Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline has transformed into one of San Leandro’s most stunning natural locales.

The shores and wetlands here support a diverse range of wildlife species, attracting a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, including photographers, birdwatchers, artists, walkers, cyclists, and joggers.

Several pathways meander along the shoreline, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly during the quiet early morning and late afternoon hours when animals are more active.

9. Zscape Games

In recent years, escape rooms have gained popularity as exciting group activities, ideally suited for family, friends, or colleagues.

Zscape Games, located on Omega Road in San Ramon—just 15 kilometers east of San Leandro—features several uniquely themed rooms that challenge participants to utilize their teamwork and problem-solving abilities in an exhilarating setting.

Escape rooms are also ideal for birthday celebrations, family reunions, and distinctive date nights, providing excellent alternatives when outdoor weather conditions are less than favorable.

As rooms tend to fill up quickly, it is advisable to reserve your spot in advance to ensure availability.

10. Coffee Time

Despite its name suggesting otherwise, Coffee Time on Doolittle Drive in San Leandro is equally renowned for its gourmet sandwiches as it is for its coffee.

Previous patrons have noted that it serves some of the finest sandwiches in the East Bay.

All items are prepared fresh daily using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring sizeable portions for moderate appetites, often enough for two meals.

Popular selections include turkey with sun-dried tomatoes and loaded bagel breakfast sandwiches featuring bacon, egg, and cheese.

While the coffee is well-regarded, the modest dining area leans more towards takeaway rather than an extended dine-in experience.

11. Kendejah Restaurant

Although San Leandro and Liberia present striking differences, the city hosts one of California’s most authentic Liberian dining establishments.

Kendejah Restaurant, founded in 2017, offers a comprehensive menu featuring traditional West African dishes, such as meat kabobs, grilled chicken, split peas with gravy, and whole roasted fish.

Liberian cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and unique spices, which are not commonly found in many other local restaurants.

Situated on Pelton Way, the restaurant enjoys popularity for its reasonable prices, attentive service, and generous portion sizes.

12. Anthony Chabot Regional Park

Located in Oakland, approximately 15 minutes north of San Leandro, Anthony Chabot Regional Park is a favored retreat for those seeking various outdoor pursuits.

The park features numerous multi-use trails suitable for walkers, runners, cyclists, and horseback riders. These paths weave through diverse environments including grasslands, wooded areas, hills, and lakes.

This regional park serves as an excellent locale for a leisurely stroll in the morning or afternoon. It is also a preferred spot for picnicking or relaxing under a shade tree while catching up with friends or enjoying a good read.

13. The Hayward Japanese Gardens

Situated on North 3rd Street in Hayward, roughly ten kilometers south of San Leandro, the Hayward Japanese Gardens represent California’s oldest cultivated garden of its kind.

These gardens incorporate quintessential Japanese design features, including koi ponds, meticulously pruned trees, stone pathways, substantial boulders, and flowing brooks, while remaining accessible throughout the year.

Despite their proximity to one of the largest urban areas in the state, the serene ambiance and natural beauty enable visitors to feel as though they are far removed from civilization.

The gardens are generally appealing to those in search of tranquility but are also welcoming to families traveling with children.

14. Sulphur Creek Nature Center

Also located in Hayward, a short drive down I-580 from San Leandro, Sulphur Creek Nature Center serves as a wildlife rehabilitation facility dedicated to returning injured animals to their natural habitat.

The center provides educational programs aimed at informing visitors about the region’s unique fauna and the significance of habitat conservation.

During a guided tour, guests have the opportunity to view many of the center’s animal inhabitants up close. For those interested in contributing, various volunteer programs are available.

15. Chabot Space & Science Center

Founded in the 1880s, the Chabot Space & Science Center ranks among the West Coast’s inaugural observatories.

Currently, it serves as a prominent attraction for families and school field trips, with its exhibits focusing primarily on astronomy, science, and technology.

In addition to interactive displays, the center hosts a range of regularly scheduled staff-led events, including science experiments, hands-on workshops, and stargazing opportunities that allow visitors to observe distant celestial bodies.

The facility is located on Skyline Boulevard in Oakland, approximately 25 minutes northwest of downtown San Leandro.