local ambassador favorite

Hayward Shoreline Breakwater Avenue

4901 Breakwater Avenue, Hayward, CA, USA

Daily 5am-10pm

$

bike-trails, hikes, run

Hayward Shore Line at the end of Breakwater Avenue in Hayward is a great place to enjoy some fresh air with your family!

This is just one entrance to the Hayward Regional Shoreline public trail (5 miles) that goes through over 1800 acres of salt, fresh, and brackish water marches and seasonal wetlands.

Park on the street (no fee) and walk along the path. This is a "how far you walk out is how far you walk back" kinda trail so be sure to keep track of how far you go. It's about one mile to the water. Keep an eye out for wildlife (animals spotted include a bunny, a ground squirrel, a lizard, many many different birds, and insects). This trail is in the landing path of Oakland Airport and spotting overhead planes is another great activity while walking. 

It’s pretty flat and totally stroller-friendly. There are typically bikers but in this area of the shoreline you won't see dogs as they are not allowed south of West Winton Ave. Fishing is allowed from the levees with a CA Fishing license. Picnicking is allowed but there are no picnic tables.

The Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center is at the start of the path. It's closed due to Covid but peek in and see some beautiful photos displayed. Behind the Interpretive Center is a large “look out” that gives a great view of the bay!

There’s a portapotty at the street/trail entrance. There's no shade so don't forget your hats and sunscreen. It can get a bit windy so be prepared with a windbreaker/light sweater. 

If you're up for a big adventure, you can take this trail all the way to San Lorenzo (and back of course, unless you get picked up on the other end).

Features

Biking Stroller-friendly Bird Watching Running Water Views Scenic Walk Nature Great Views
Thoughtfully captured by:
Jessie Fritzen
Jessie relocated to the Bay Area in 2013 to be a high school math teacher and since has gotten married, has two kids, and is now a SAHM, stay/slay at home mom. She enjoys working on her embroidery crafts and taking her kids to local playgrounds and regional nature parks, both of which were activities she became passionate about during the pandemic when she needed an outlet and a way to maintain her mental health. She loves encouraging local families and visitors alike to laugh, play, and explore. There’s so much to see and do so get outside and do it! #amom2kidsandapark
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