Top reasons to visit Berkeley
- Cultural Experiences: Berkeley is rich in cultural offerings, from theatre performances to educational pursuits, ensuring a fascinating exploration of the arts.
- Outdoor Activities: The city boasts scenic parks and vibrant streets, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature and leisure.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With welcoming neighbourhoods and ample attractions, Berkeley is an ideal destination for families seeking fun and relaxation.
- Vibrant Local Scene: Experience the lively atmosphere enriched by friendly locals and numerous bars, contributing to a welcoming environment.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of hotels and resorts, catering to every traveller's needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels near Berkeley
Discover the charm of Berkeley, California, with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From luxurious hotels to pet-friendly resorts, you'll find the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy essential amenities tailored for business travellers and those seeking a relaxing getaway. With an array of hotel reviews available, you can choose from the best Berkeley hotels to ensure a memorable stay.
- Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: Embrace an adventurous beach-themed getaway at the 4-star Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf, located a mere 14km from Berkeley. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel provides direct access to the beach and offers a wide array of adventure sports and recreation activities both onsite and nearby. Whether you're interested in hiking or biking, the scenic surroundings cater to your adventurous spirit. The central location allows easy exploration of local attractions while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront.
- Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco: For those on business or seeking a pet-friendly retreat, the 4-star Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco is an excellent choice, also 14km from Berkeley. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel is situated in the bustling shopping district, making it convenient for any retail enthusiast. The hotel welcomes pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your furry companion with amenities such as food and water bowls, along with a waiver on fees for service animals. Ideal for business travellers, it also provides a conducive environment for productivity.
- Handlery Union Square Hotel: Combining family-friendly amenities with a central location, the 3.5-star Handlery Union Square Hotel is just 14km from Berkeley. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel is well-suited for families and business travellers alike. Situated in the shopping district, it offers convenient access to various retail outlets. Families will appreciate the services and amenities tailored for children, making it a welcoming destination for those travelling with little ones while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.
Where to stay in Berkeley
Berkeley, California, offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor adventure, perfect for families and urban explorers alike. Just a short distance away, you can enjoy the picturesque Berkeley Square, a prime location for relaxation and leisure. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by friendly locals and numerous bars, making it an inviting destination. Experience the charm of the city and its family-friendly neighbourhoods, ensuring a memorable vacation for all.
- Oakland: Nestled in the vibrant Bay Area, Oakland is a bustling metropolis that offers a rich tapestry of culture and experiences. Known for its diverse population, the city boasts numerous family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore historic universities, attend events at the arena, or enjoy performances at local theatres. The city's peak travel months from July to September provide a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in its vibrant community and attractions.
- Downtown Berkeley: Located at the heart of Berkeley, this dynamic neighbourhood is renowned for its cultural richness and lively entertainment scene. Downtown Berkeley draws visitors year-round, with peak travel times in January to February and April. The area is home to prestigious educational institutions and hosts an array of theatrical performances and music concerts. Strolling through the neighbourhood, you'll find a blend of historical landmarks and modern amenities, including a scenic marina that adds to the area's charm. It's a perfect spot for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
- Emeryville: Just 3km from Berkeley, Emeryville is an exciting city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and cultural offerings. With a peak in visitor numbers during April, July, and September, this city is ideal for those seeking outdoor activities and shopping experiences. Emeryville features a range of attractions, including a bustling shopping mall, theatres, and a historic college university. Its close proximity to the Bay Area's scenic beauty and vibrant urban life makes it an inviting destination for all types of travellers.
Things to do near Berkeley
Shopping
In the heart of Berkeley, visit the eclectic shops on Telegraph Avenue for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Berkeley Marina offers the Shoreline Shopping Center, featuring a mix of retail stores and dining options along the waterfront.
Recreation
In Berkeley, immerse yourself at the Integrative Wellness Centre, offering holistic treatments and yoga classes in a serene environment. For outdoor relaxation, visit the beautiful Tilden Regional Park, where you can hike, picnic, and connect with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Adventure
At Sonoma Raceway, 35km from Berkeley, immerse yourself in the thrill of motor racing, where speed meets excitement on a professional track. Alternatively, the Simraceway Performance Driving Center, also 35km away, offers a unique driving experience, allowing you to test your skills in various racing conditions.
Nightlife
Visit the Albatross Pub on Telegraph Avenue for a laid-back atmosphere and enjoy a selection of local brews. For a vibrant scene, check out The UC Theatre, where you can catch live performances and immerse yourself in the local music culture.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Berkeley
Berkeley presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious tourists. With free attractions such as Pier 39, the University of California, and Jack London Square, visitors can explore without spending money. For transport, consider using BART, buses, or bikes for cost-effective travel. To save on accommodation, visit in February or November to December, as these months offer lower rates. Sundays are typically cheaper for stays, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find affordable packages that combine flights and hotels, ensuring you enjoy significant savings on your trip.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Berkeley are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Berkeley is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Berkeley is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel stay in Berkeley with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Berkeley
Berkeley is an excellent destination for culture-themed, family, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions including urban parks, vibrant streets, and scenic islands. The points of interest in and around Berkeley cater to those seeking cultural enrichment, urban experiences, and outdoor adventures, ensuring a memorable trip for all types of travellers.
- Berkeley Marina: Experience the vibrant outdoor atmosphere at Berkeley Marina, where you can engage in various activities such as sailing, cycling, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. The marina offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure.
- Pier 39: Located 14km away from Berkeley, Pier 39 is a bustling jetty where urban charm meets scenic beauty. Explore its diverse shops, dine at waterfront restaurants, and watch the playful sea lions basking in the sun. The lively atmosphere is complemented by street performances and entertainment.
- Alcatraz Island: A short ferry ride from Pier 39 takes you to Alcatraz Island, famed for its historic prison. The island provides an intriguing glimpse into its storied past and offers beautiful views of the bay. Explore the grounds and learn about its notorious inmates while enjoying the serene outdoor setting.
Best time to go to Berkeley
The best time to visit Berkeley can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Berkeley falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Berkeley falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Berkeley
Flying into Berkeley is convenient with three major airports nearby. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located 31km away, with luxurious hotels such as the Fairmont San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19km from the airport, offering shuttle services. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is 109km away, with good hotel options like the DoubleTree by Hilton, situated 18km from the airport. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 63km distant, featuring accommodations like the Shashi Hotel Mountain View, just 14km away. Each airport provides various transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to Berkeley.