Things to do in San Leandro

Laurie's Favorites in San Leando

San Leandro is a friendly and diverse city with a colorful heritage and numerous cultural amenities including a 450-berth Marina, two golf courses and a large community library. Discovered in 1772 by a Spanish explorer, San Leandro became famous during the late 1800s and early 1900s for its delicious cherries. In 1909, to celebrate the abundant cherry harvest, San Leandro held its first Cherry Festival, an event which was so successful, it is still celebrated today.

San Leandro is also well-known for its quiet, well-defined neighborhoods full of charming and unique older houses on tree-lined streets. San Leandro residents are proud of both their neighborhoods and their City, which is reflected by their active involvement in the City’s numerous neighborhood and homeowner’s associations. San Leandro’s temperate weather also makes it an excellent place for outdoor recreation. With an average temperature of 62 degrees and average rainfall of 19 inches per year, outdoor activity at any one of the many City parks is possible all year round.

Soon, the City of San Leandro’s infrastructure will be revolutionized with the installation of a city-wide fiber optic loop, known as “Lit San Leandro.” This will position the City to be a major player in the high-tech and clean-tech industries. Businesses in San Leandro will be able to tap into a direct fiber connection to most long haul and telecom suppliers, allowing them to connect to the external world, such as data centers, hubs, and other offices at extremely high speeds.

Paradiso San Leandro

Paradiso in San Leandro, a celebrated dining destination, has proudly earned the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence for 2023. With a legacy spanning over 27 years, this esteemed restaurant has become a cornerstone in the community for friends and family seeking a superb dining experience. Specializing in Italian-American cuisine, Paradiso offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can indulge in a rich array of flavors, perfectly complemented by an impressive wine selection. This long-standing establishment continues to be a favorite for those who appreciate the blend of traditional Italian fare with a distinct American twist.

Fieldwork San Leandro

This San Leandro taproom and beer garden is located in downtown San Leandro. Visitors can expect an ever-changing tap list of fresh releases to enjoy by sampler flight or beer by the glass. Fresh been to go is available in 16 oz cans, growlers, and 32 oz crowlers. They also offer convenient pickup and local deliver of online orders. There is a lot of seating available and you order through a QR code and they’ll deliver your food to you. There are quite a few picnic tables and seating around the fire pits that create a communal gathering area.

Slice House San Leandro

Slice House in San Leandro is a culinary gem born from the collaboration of renowned pizza maestro Tony Gemignani and local favorites Tom & Teresa Lawrie, owners of Sons of Liberty Alehouse. This bustling pizzeria, nestled in the heart of the city, offers an eclectic mix of pizza styles — from classic New York and hearty Sicilian to the distinct Detroit and California varieties, alongside the beloved Grandma-style pizzas. Complementing the extensive pizza menu are fresh salads, savory meatballs, and a selection of beer and wine on tap. Whether you choose to savor these delights in the cozy indoor setting or on the inviting patio, Slice House promises a memorable dining experience for all pizza enthusiasts.

San Leandro Marina

Enjoy golf on the 18-station Par Course located at the south end of the Marina – equaling one mile in length. Hike or bike on the seven-mile paved and gravel trail which is part of the San Francisco Bay Trail System along San Francisco Bay to the Hayward Interpretive Center. Also there are two children’s play areas as well as picnic tables with barbecues throughout the Marina. In addition there are 315 acres of restored seasonal wetlands with a variety of bird species.

Dine at the three restaurants located within the Marina: The Wedges Bar and Grill is located at Monarch Bay Golf Club, El Torito and Horatio’s are located on the water’s edge. There are Sunday brunches as well as banquet rooms available. A first-class waterfront hotel with 131 rooms and suites is available if you wish to stay ashore. Conference facilities are also available. Set just feet from the San Francisco Bay, Monarch Bay Golf Club provides an 18-hole Scottish links-style course, an entertaining 9-hole course in a park-like setting, and a double deck practice range. Monarch Bay Golf also offers two banquet rooms in the clubhouse with on-site catering and event specialists to help you plan and host your next event.