Top 16 Lakes around San Leandro
Best lakes around San Leandro are primarily centered around a significant reservoir and a prominent marina, offering diverse water-based recreational opportunities. The region, situated along the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay, features a mix of freshwater and tidal environments. These areas provide ample space for various activities and scenic beauty, despite San Leandro itself not having large natural lakes.
Best lakes around San Leandro
- The most popular lakes is Lake Chabot Marina, a facilities highlight that serves as a scenic area with boat rentals, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. It offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking in the lake.
- Another must-see spot is Hayward Regional Shoreline, a trail encompassing 1,811 acres of salt, fresh, and brackish water marshes, seasonal wetlands, and public trails. It features five miles of gravel trails along the waterfront, offering views and historical remnants.
- Visitors also love East Shore Trail — Lake Chabot Regional Park, a paved trail on the east side of Lake Chabot. This flat, shaded trail is suitable for various activities and offers views of the lake.
- San Leandro is known for reservoirs, marinas, and shoreline trails. These water bodies provide a variety of settings for outdoor activities and scenic enjoyment.
- The lakes around San Leandro are appreciated by the komoot community, with 43 upvotes and 18 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Lake Chabot Marina
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Hayward Regional Shoreline
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East Shore Trail — Lake Chabot Regional Park
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Eden Landing Ecological Preserve
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West Shore Trail
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Tips from the Community
On the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, Eden Landing Ecological Preserve spans about 5,040 acres in size. It was formerly an industrial salt pond from Oliver Salt Company, and the remains can still be found today. Ongoing restoration efforts have rehabilitated over 1,000 acres of marshland as bird habitat. In April of 2016, new trails and a kayak launch were opened to the public.
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Long gravel stretch was no issue for my hybrid commuter on a dry day. Nice and quiet, it's a lightly populated trail.
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You may find yourself sharing the West Shore Trail with bikers, joggers, inline skaters and other walkers. The paved trail is wide enough to view and even runs past the dam and spillway at one corner of Lake Chabot.
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Lake Chabot Marina is a scenic area that has boating, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. Visitors can rent boats, fish, and kayak in the lake. There is a cafe here, or just vending machines for snacks, restaurants, and picnic areas.
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On the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, Eden Landing Ecological Preserve spans about 5,040 acres in size. It was formerly an industrial salt pond from Oliver Salt Company, and the remains can still be found today. Ongoing restoration efforts have rehabilitated over 1,000 acres of marshland as bird habitat. In April of 2016, new trails and a kayak launch were opened to the public.
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Hayward Regional Shoreline encompasses 1,811 acres of salt, water, fresh water, and brackish water marshes, as well as seasonal wetlands and public trails for visitors. The shoreline features five miles of public gravel trails along the waterfront. Keep an eye out for remnants of timber at landing sites along the trail that become visible during low tide, offering a glimpse into this historical landing's history.
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This paved trail on the east side of Lake Chabot is flat and a great spot to warm up before a long ride. It's shaded, with a flat grade, and cooler right next to the lake.
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Lake Chabot Marina is a scenic area with boasts, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. Visitors can rent boats, fish, and kayak in the lake. There is a cafe here, or just vending machines for a snack, restaurants, and picnic areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes and water bodies for outdoor activities near San Leandro?
For a wide range of outdoor activities, Lake Chabot Regional Park is an excellent choice. It offers boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The Lake Chabot Marina is a central point for rentals and amenities. The San Leandro Marina, part of the San Leandro Shoreline Recreation Area, is also great for walking, jogging, biking, and fishing along the Bay Trail.
Are there family-friendly lakes or water areas around San Leandro?
Yes, both Lake Chabot Regional Park and the San Leandro Marina are very family-friendly. Lake Chabot has picnic areas, a grassy play area, and easy trails like the East Shore Trail. The San Leandro Marina features two playgrounds, open grassy fields, and flat, paved pathways ideal for strollers and young children.
Where can I find accessible trails for wheelchairs near San Leandro's lakes?
The East Shore Trail — Lake Chabot Regional Park is a paved, flat, and shaded trail along Lake Chabot, making it suitable for wheelchairs. Similarly, the San Leandro Marina offers over two miles of flat, paved pathways along the Bay Trail, providing accessible routes with panoramic views.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the lakes near San Leandro?
Yes, many areas are dog-friendly. Lake Chabot Regional Park welcomes dogs on its trails, and the San Leandro Marina also has a dedicated dog park and allows dogs on its paved pathways, making it a great spot for outings with your canine companion.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see?
At Lake Chabot Regional Park, you can spot diverse wildlife such as deer, raccoons, eagles, hawks, and herons. The park features a 315-acre reservoir and surrounding woodlands. The Hayward Regional Shoreline and Eden Landing Ecological Preserve offer extensive salt, fresh, and brackish water marshes, seasonal wetlands, and are vital bird habitats, especially for waterbirds.
What hiking opportunities are available near these water bodies?
Lake Chabot Regional Park offers over a dozen hiking trails, including a 9-mile loop around the lake. The West Shore Trail and East Shore Trail are popular options. For more hiking ideas, you can explore hiking routes around San Leandro, which include trails like the San Francisco Bay Trail and Arrowhead Marsh Trail.
Can I go cycling around the lakes near San Leandro?
Absolutely. Lake Chabot Regional Park has trails suitable for biking, including the paved West Shore Trail. The San Leandro Marina features over two miles of paved pathways that are part of the Bay Trail, perfect for cycling with scenic views of the San Francisco Bay. For more cycling options, check out Road Cycling Routes around San Leandro.
Is swimming allowed in Lake Chabot or other nearby water bodies?
Swimming is not permitted in Lake Chabot, as it serves as an emergency water supply and skin-contact with the water is prohibited. While the San Leandro Marina is on the bay, it's primarily for boating and fishing, not swimming.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, at the Lake Chabot Marina, there is a cafe and picnic areas. The San Leandro Marina area also boasts several restaurants and a waterfront hotel, offering various dining options with bay views.
What are the parking and public transport options for Lake Chabot Regional Park?
Parking is available at Lake Chabot Regional Park, with fees typically $5 for cars and $4 for trailered vehicles. Public transport options may be limited, so checking local transit schedules for routes to the park's vicinity is recommended.
What is the best time to visit the lakes and water areas near San Leandro?
The lakes and water areas near San Leandro are enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking. Summer is great for boating and water activities, while winter can provide unique birdwatching opportunities, especially at the marshlands like Hayward Regional Shoreline.
Can I rent boats or kayaks at Lake Chabot?
Yes, boat rentals are available at the Lake Chabot Marina. You can rent kayaks, rowing boats, pedal boats, and electric motor boats. You can also carry in your own canoe, kayak, or sculling watercraft (up to 20 feet) for a launch fee.
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