Thousands of renters move to Contra Costa County each year for plenty of reasons, such as its growing job market, vibrant culture, and safe neighborhoods, but the area’s natural beauty is the most breathtaking of them all. The residential communities of Contra Costa County are surrounded by lush greenery and golden, rolling hills, putting renters only a short-drive to surfing, bicycling, hiking, kayaking, camping, and more. With summer sneaking into the region with its warm weather and clear skies, people are eager to stretch their legs and take on the great outdoors after months of social distancing. Luckily, Contra Costa County has a lot to offer. PMI Contra Costa presents the five top outdoor activities to do in Contra Costa County this summer.
1. Hike Mount Diablo
Mount Diablo is a Contra Costa County’s stunning mountain in the Diablo Range, peaking at 3,849 feet to give hikers an all-encompassing view of the San Francisco Bay Area. At 13.2 miles, the hike takes roughly seven hours to complete, making it the perfect all-day, weekend activity. If you prefer not to spend your Saturdays on a strenuous hike, Mount Diablo State Park also offers drive-in picnic areas and barbecue spots for low-effort cookouts with friends. Plus, with a day-use entrance fee of only $6-10, this natural beauty is accessible and affordable for everyone.
2. Birdwatch at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline
A 2,432-acre park featuring sandy shores, meadows, and marshes, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline is home to tons of wildlife. Over 100 species of birds, butterflies, and owls inhabit the park. With 12 hiking and biking trails, 5.5 miles of shoreline, and a 1,250 foot-fishing pier, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline has endless places explore. With paved shuttle trails and wheelchair accessible restrooms, this destination is ideal for everyone in Contra Costa County. You’ll want to bring your binoculars to get a good look of all of the beautiful birds that call the park its home!
3. Camp at Sugarloaf Open Space
Sugarloaf Open Space is nestled along Interstate 680 in southern Walnut, Creek, with over 177 acres of woodlands and grasslands for Contra Costa County residents to enjoy. With 3 miles of hiking trails, Sugarloaf is the spot for people looking for a quick, easy hike in Contra Costa County. Overnight camping can be reserved at the ranger station, but plenty of picnic areas and outdoor grills make it an attractive choice for day-use, as well. Containing one of the last black walnut orchards in the city, Sugarloaf is one of Contra Costa County’s prized possessions that all residents should check out.
4. Kayak on the San Joaquin River
Contra Costa County’s Antioch Marina is the perfect place to enjoy the area’s local waterways. With rentals available at Delta Kayak Adventures, Contra Costa County residents can paddle to Winter and Brown islands, or take an all-day adventure to Big Break Regional Shoreline. With the largest estuary on the Pacific Coast right in Contra Costa County, wildlife is plentiful and tranquility is guaranteed. For only $54 for the weekend, kayaks can be rented in the Antioch Marina.
5. Take a stroll along the Contra Costa Canal Trail
The Contra Costa Canal trail connects Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, and Concord with multi-use, whole-access trails. This trail not only connects to multiple regional parks, such as the Iron Horse Trail, but also gives access to schools, commercial areas, and public transportation. The Contra Costa Canal Trail is the best non-vehicular transportation route in all of Contra Costa County. Whether you are looking to bike, walk, or run, this is the trail for you.
Play in Contra Costa County This Summer
PMI Contra Costa is ready to help you take advantage of the beauty surrounding Contra Costa County. The perfect place to work and play, there is something for everyone in Contra Costa County. Our experienced team is here to find your perfect house and make this beautiful area your home.
