Things To Do
in San Leandro
San Leandro sits on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay in Alameda County, just south of Oakland. The city blends historic neighborhoods with a growing waterfront and a diverse, family-friendly vibe. It offers easy access to the broader East Bay and Bay Area through BART, highways, and a compact, walkable downtown.
Visitors can enjoy parks, a lively farmers market scene, and quick drives to nearby urban and natural attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Leandro History Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich local history through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the city. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee from a local café as you watch the town awaken around you.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the historic San Leandro City Hall, a beautiful building with stunning architecture and fascinating stories. Visit the nearby Parrott Street Park for a picnic lunch, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of chirping birds. Later, explore the local shops and boutiques, picking up unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table dining experience, savoring dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, catch a live performance at the San Leandro Performing Arts Center, where talented artists showcase their skills. End the evening with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Begin your day with a visit to the San Leandro Marina, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning walk along the waterfront, taking in the stunning views of the bay. Bring your binoculars to spot various bird species as you stroll through the nearby wildlife refuge, home to many migratory birds. Capture the picturesque scenery with your camera as the morning sun glistens on the water.
After exploring the marina, head to the nearby Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Enjoy hiking along the trails while learning about the local flora and fauna, with opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitats. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bay from a different perspective, embracing the tranquility of the water.
As evening approaches, return to the marina for a sunset cruise, allowing you to unwind while taking in the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the water. After your cruise, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while listening to the sound of waves. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the marina, reflecting on the beauty of nature around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $2,000-2,800 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🚆Public transit pass (monthly) | $90-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse dining options and easy access to Bay Area cities
- Walkable downtown and scenic waterfront areas
- Some neighborhoods require driving for longer trips
- Bay Area traffic can be heavy during peak hours
Places to Visit in San Leandro
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterfront views, boats, and piers make for golden-hour reflections across the bay and dramatic sunsets over the water.
Colorful murals, vintage storefronts, and classic Italianate architecture along Main Street provide vibrant urban photography opportunities.
Scenic lake vistas and forested hillsides ideal for landscape shots, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Food in San Leandro
San Leandro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Bay Area favorite found at many taquerias and street-food stalls, usually served with cilantro, onions, salsa, and lime on warm tortillas.
Must-Try!
A Filipino classic commonly found in neighborhood spots, offering tender chicken in a soy-vinegar glaze with fragrant garlic rice.
A seafood stew inspired by Italian-American traditions, featuring a tomato-based broth and a mix of fish, clams, mussels, and other shellfish.
A hearty wrap filled with rice, beans, meat, cheese, and salsa, reflecting the Bay Area’s fusion influence and available at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in downtown with fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, and local crafts; great for a quick bite or to stock up for a picnic.
Seasonal and event-based stalls along Main Street offering a variety of street foods and treats—perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The East Bay is diverse and widely bilingual; be polite, respectful of different cultures, and mindful of noise levels in public spaces and transit.
Tipping is expected in service settings. Greeting staff with a simple 'hello' or 'hi' in English is common; private conversations should be kept considerate in public spaces.
Many residents value sustainability; consider recycling and minimizing waste when dining and shopping.
Safety
Tipping in San Leandro
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and rideshares. Standard amounts are 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; you may tip more for exceptional service and a higher bill, or round up for small orders.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; many places also support contactless payments and mobile wallets. Some venues may note cashless policies during busy times or at specific events.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with dry conditions; bay breezes can keep evenings cooler. Pack light layers, sunscreen, and water for outdoor activity; early mornings are ideal for waterfront photos.
Mild temperatures and clear skies; great for outdoor activities and city walks. The light is often warm late in the day, ideal for photography along the marina or Main Street.
Cool, wetter months with occasional rain; expect cooler evenings and occasional agricultural or market closures on heavy rain days. Layer up and check market schedules in advance.
Pleasant temperatures with blooming landscapes; perfect for parks, trails, and street photography. Rain showers can occur but generally sunny intervals offer good light.
San Leandro at Night
Hiking in San Leandro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hilly trails with bay views and wildlife; good for day hikes and family outings.
Redwood groves and lush forest trails; popular for longer hikes and scenic photography near Oakland.
Varied terrain, lakeside vistas, and a network of trails that connect to the broader East Bay hills.
Newer trail network with panoramic views of the bay and green, well-marked routes.
Airports
How to reach San Leandro by plane.
Closest major airport; quick access by car or BART-connected routes; strong domestic flight options and regional connections.
Larger international hub within a manageable drive or transit ride; connects Bay Area to global destinations.
Other regional option with broad domestic service; typically a longer drive but useful for certain itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, African American, and White residents, contributing to a broad range of cultural experiences and cuisines.
Combination of family neighborhoods and growing downtown with accessibility to Bay Area jobs and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hobby and school leagues plus community courts are common in parks and recreation areas.
Loved by families and youth leagues; local fields and organized clubs are widely available.
Regional parks host games and practice fields, especially in spring and summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Leandro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many shops offer vegetarian-friendly dishes such as veggie burritos, tofu bowls, salads, and veggie-based starters. When dining out, ask for no meat broths and request sauces on the side to manage spice and texture. Bay Area eateries often accommodate dietary needs with simple substitutions.