Some of the best dates happen in the outdoors.
Here are a few ideas to get you going.
Walk in Wine Country
(Courtesy of Weekend Sherpa)
Locals call it Bart Park, but the distinguished nature of this beautiful 400 acres tucked just a few miles east of Sonoma's historic plaza beckons an official callout: Bartholomew Park is a beauty. We recommend a 3-miler starting at the South Gate Trailhead, where you'll find a sign with a trail map. Begin hiking on the You-Walk Miwok Trail, winding next to a stream and climbing among madrones and oaks to beautiful views of the valley and vineyards.
Wine: Now it's time to relax and "unwined" at Bartholomew Estate Winery. Plan ahead and book a tasting on the Oak Knoll, or purchase a glass or bottle and bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's charming wine garden (open to all).
Head to Weekend Sherpa for full hiking trail details and a tip on the best place to watch a sunset here.
Oakland Urban Walk & Beer Garden
(Courtesy of Weekend Sherpa)
Oakland walks to the beat of its own drum with a super vibrant arts scene. One of the easiest places to check some of it out is in the Northgate neighborhood—home of the "Art Murmur." The Murmur began a few years ago as an art walk with participating galleries and mixed-use art spaces for the popular First Friday events. For a do-it-yourself variation on a weekend, start your walk on the corner of 26th and Telegraph and head south towards 25th Street, where you will find your first piece of art, titled "Opening Day Sprays."Continue down to Telegraph, to the "No One Dragon" mural near the well-known Double Standard Bar. Turn left onto 24th Street and find the amazing building-wide "Give Love" mural. Make your way down 24th Street, take a left on Broadway, and begin your walk back to 26th Street. As you approach 25th Street, you'll see a beautiful mural on the side of Au Lounge, painted by Natty Rebel. Back on 26th Street, you'll encounter the largest mural on this route. Painted by 12 artists, the "Oakland Palestine Solidarity Mural" spans 157 feet and is over 22 feet tall.
Beer, Bites, and Brunch: Classic Cars West beer garden is across the street from the "Oakland Palestine Solidarity Mural." Grab a beer or mixed drink and some food, play some pinball, or sit outside among three surrounding murals.
Get more ideas for outdoor dates in the East Bay.
Marshall Mellow
(Courtesy of Weekend Sherpa)
Tucked away in the northern part of Point Reyes National Sea Shore, Marshall Beach is a sandy hidden haven set along the warm waters of Tomales Bay. And you can't get to it by car! Access to Marshall is by way of a 1-mile hike or kayaking in. But the big reward is Marshall Beach itself: not only picture perfect, but picnic perfect. Spread your blanket and your provisions and sprawl out. Kayakers paddle by, or paddle up to shore, waves lap, ospreys fly overhead. Spending an afternoon mellowing out at Marshall is magical.
Tip: Pick up delicious deli sandwiches and other picnic provisions at Inverness Park Market, 12301 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Inverness Park.
Get camping and kayak-in details at Weekend Sherpa.
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