Bay Area Travel Guide | What to Do & Where to Eat in Berkeley, Livermore & Tiburon
Until recently, we had yet to venture outside of San Francisco to see what else the Bay Area has to offer. We were pleasantly surprised to find that renting a car, and driving just beyond the big city, there were plenty of opportunities to explore and discover more California personality than we could have imagined. We spent a couple of days in the Livermore Tri-Valley area, then ventured to Berkeley for an immersive experience of wine tasting throughout their active industrial district, and ended the trip treating ourselves to a couple of nights in Tiburon. The trip was surprisingly charming, elegant, and full of great food and wine.
If you’re planning a trip to California, here’s everything you need to know about traveling in the Bay Area. From wine country escapes to coastal towns, you’ll find plenty of food in the Bay Area worth traveling for.
First Time Visitor’s Guide to Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, and the Tri-Valley Area
1. Stay at Aloft Dublin-Pleasanton in Tri-Valley
Aloft Dublin-Pleasanton is a uniquely modern hotel where technology and taste collide. Enjoy their heated pool and Jacuzzi area, complete with corn hole, a fire pit, and a bocce ball court. Don’t forget to meet their delivery bot, Boltr! Aloft Dublin-Pleasanton is perfectly central and accessible from each of the Tri-Valley cities. It’s a great and affordable location to discover all that the Tri-Valley has to offer, while being close to some of the best Livermore restaurants.
Where to Eat in the Tri-Valley Area
2. Eat at Sabio on Main
Sabio is a unique dining experience with specialized and traditional dishes made for sharing. The elegant, yet vibrant atmosphere only lends to the experience. Sabio on Main has an incredible full bar with an award-winning wine menu and signature cocktails, making it one of the best restaurants in the Bay Area for foodies seeking global flavors.
Image courtesy of Sabio on Main
3. Brunch at Beer Baron Whisky Bar & Kitchen
Beer Baron is a funky brick-lined gathering spot offering a high-end twist on classic plates. This is not your average bar food! We recommend trying their Belgian Style Duck Fat Fries. The first thing you’ll notice about Pleasanton is its knack for having good food in the Bay Area, with plenty of outdoor dining available. For a sunny day, catching a table and eating al fresco is a great way to start. The Chile Quiles are seriously good, and their cocktails are everything we could ask for.
4. Dinner at Burma! Burma!
Burma! Burma! It is Burmese food at its best and has some of the most flavorful global dishes in the Tri-Valley. Dublin is known for its international dining scene, and this spot is among the best places to eat in the Bay Area for authentic Burmese cuisine.
5. Visit Inklings Coffee & Tea for Great Coffee
Put a pep in your step with the cornerstone of Pleasanton coffee, Inkling’s Coffee & Tea. Brewing Stumptown Coffee, Inkling’s has a cozy and spacious area to enjoy, as well as a library-like study area to savor some quiet moments.
Inkling’s Coffee & Tea is also a member of the Tri-Valley Caffeine Trail, which you can follow throughout the valley to hit some of the best cafes in the Bay Area. The Tri-Valley area is where coffee and creativity meet.
6. Ice cream at Meadowlark Dairy
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Meadowlark Dairy for delicious soft-serve ice cream. In addition to the Tri-Valley Caffeine Trail, there is an ice cream trail for those who need something a little sweeter. Check out the Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail to see all the best ice cream shops in the area.
7. Brunch at Danville Harvest
Located in the heart of Downtown Danville and right next to Mrs. Doubtfire’s Bridges Restaurant (“Help is on the way, dearie!”), Danville Harvest is a chic farm-to-table bistro featuring New American fare. The restaurant features an extraordinarily cute and large outdoor dining space that’s perfect for a warm, sunny morning. It’s an easy pick for those searching for nice restaurants in California and around the Tri-Valley.
Top Things to Do in California’s Tri-Valley Area
8. Head to the Downtown Pleasanton Farmers’ Market
Take a stroll down Main Street to explore the classic California downtown of Pleasanton and admire the boutique shopping and restaurants. The Pleasanton Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Amongst the large array of fresh-cut flowers and a multitude of delicious California produce, there is also a great selection of fresh-caught California Coast fish, and artisan crafts available for purchase.
Make sure to stop by Dan Good Cookies to grab something sweet, including freshly-made ice-cream sandwiches. Take a piece of California back home with you by picking up a locally crafted bottle at Olivina Olive Oil in the market as well! A visit here pairs perfectly with a day of exploring food in the Bay Area.
9. Hop on your E-Bikes from Pedego Livermore for a Wine Tour You Won’t Forget
What better way to tour the wineries of the Tri-Valley area than by bike? Pedego Livermore features e-bike rentals near popular Livermore restaurants, wineries, and breweries. Visitors have the option of renting e-bikes for a self-guided adventure or joining a wine or beer tasting tour that includes three local stops and lunch! After a quick lesson on using the Pedego bikes’ throttles, head to your first winery!
10. First winery stop: Tasting and Tour at Darcie Kent Vineyards
7000 Tesla Rd, Livermore, CA 94550 (7-10 minutes via e-bike from Pedego)
Few wineries can rival the flavor and style of Darcie Kent Vineyards. It’s so unexpected outside of quintessential Napa Valley, but we were blown away by this small and locally owned winery. You’ll know when you’ve arrived at Darcie Kent Vineyards when you see their iconic purple barn. Interestingly enough, the winery used to be the home of Bing Crosby! Enjoy a tasting and familiarize yourself with the beautiful property before setting off to your next destination. This stop is also close to some of the best restaurants in Livermore, making it easy to pair fine dining with fine wine.
11. Second winery stop: Charcuterie Lunch at Murrieta’s Well
3005 Mines Rd, Livermore, CA 94550 (5-6 minutes via e-bike from Darcie Kent Vineyards)
Murrieta’s Well is located in a scenic corner of Mines Road and dates back to the 19th century. The rustic vineyard features a historic barrel room, an upstairs tasting bar, gorgeous tiled steps, and a scenic patio. Sit down for a tasting and enjoy a charcuterie lunch before your next stop. Reservations are highly encouraged as this winery can get very busy.
On your way to the next winery stop, make sure to ride through Holdener Park to take in some of the beautiful scenery. Enjoy the 10-15 minute e-bike ride from Murrieta’s Well through gorgeous wine country before arriving at Las Positas Vineyards.
Click on this link from your phone for directions: https://goo.gl/maps/erbwGnjLCS2dh8jk9
12. Third winery stop: Las Positas Vineyards
1828 Wetmore Rd, Livermore, CA 94550
Kick back and enjoy the vineyard views surrounding Las Positas Vineyards. This winery is known for its amazing red varietals. Las Positas was awarded the 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Competition’s Best Red Wine Sweepstakes. For a small winery, Las Positas has an incredible array of varietals in its wine collection. Sitt back and try as many as you can! If you’re looking for where to eat in Livermore, CA, after wine tasting, you’ll find great pairings nearby.
13. Drive up to the summit of Mount Diablo State Park
Mount Diablo State Park serves as a gorgeous backdrop to the entire Bay Area. Featuring one of the largest viewsheds on the West Coast, on sunny days visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. The park’s gate opens at 8 a.m. and the drive to the summit takes around 45 minutes – 1 hour. As you drive up the mountainside, you may even get lucky enough to see the profession of driving through the infamous Bay Area marinelayer. You’ll be amazed as you rise above the clouds in such a short time while seeing the expansive views beyond.
Fun fact: the Mt. Diablo State Park Visitor Center was built with stones sourced from the park’s fossil-rich foothills, and if you look closely, you can actually spot some on the sides of the building's walls! This is easily one of the best places to eat in the Bay Area for great views. You can pack a picnic and dine with some of the best views in Northern California.
First Time Visitor’s Guide to Berkeley and the Bay Area
For a central location close to Berekele’s famous Wine Block, check in at the Aiden By Best Western. The Aiden is Berkeley’s newest hotel, and the first new hotel property to open in Berkeley in a quarter-century! Aiden is Best Western’s new collection of modern, boutique hotels with an authentic and laid-back personality (in other words, perfect for Berkeley!). The collection is designed for creative travelers and mobile workers; each property has a multi-functional public area to bring together the best of work and play.
Image courtesy of Best Western
Where to Eat & Drink in Berkeley
14. Passione on Fifth, a taste of Northern Italy in Berkeley
Grab an Aperol Spritz and enjoy some classic Italian staples. We had a great time consuming as much charcuterie as we could take in, in addition to the incredible seafood we ordered. Famous for their char-grilled pizzas, Passione on Fifth boasts an impressive menu and equally impressive cocktails. It’s a must-try if you’re exploring restaurants in Berkeley, CA.
15. Enjoy an afternoon of tasting on the Berkeley Wine Block!
The most unexpected and the best thing we did in Berkeley was visit its up-and-coming wine block. Old warehouses and industrialized buildings have been turned into wine cellars and urban bars with open seating pouring out of them. We had an incredible time lounging outside of Vinca Minor, Hammerling Wines, and Maitre de Chai, tasting some of the best wines we’ve had the privilege to try in California. A truly memorable stop while exploring good wine and good food in Berkeley.
16. Hearty French Breakfast at La Note
A visit to Berkeley is not complete without a visit to La Note for breakfast. This popular restaurant and cafe is a quintessential staple to Berkeley culture. It’s cozy, chic, laid back, and everything that Berkeley citizens consider “home”. From French classics like Croque Monsieur to delectable and cheese-y omelets, this cafe will fill your hearts and your stomachs! No wonder it’s one of the top-rated Berkeley restaurants.
17. Dinner at Fish & Bird
Treat yourself to an exquisite Japanese culinary experience that made even us blush. Fish & Bird is a unique Izakaya-style restaurant and bar, specializing in modern Japanese cuisine. Chef Asuka Uchida is classically trained in Japanese and French cooking techniques. Her modern, sophisticated interpretation of traditional dishes is a reflection of the current trends in Japan. Your taste buds will thank you. Without a doubt, this is among the best restaurants Berkeley has to offer.
18. Tequila Tasting at El Patio
One of the things that we had the most fun doing in Berkeley was tasting as much tequila as possible at El Patio. This restaurant and bar boasts some incredible Mexican-fusion dishes alongside the largest assortment of Tequila that Berkeley has to offer. The staff is incredibly friendly, and Berkeley locals know it! We could tell that this place is at the heart of that laid-back Berkeley spirit, and we enjoyed every moment we had there. Definitely try the Mexican street Elote, it was one of our favorite dishes we had on the entire trip! A lively stop for anyone exploring restaurants in Berkeley, CA.
19. Grab Coffee at Cafenated in North Berkeley
A modern and brightly lit space provides a great cup of brew alongside plenty of tables to spread out and relax. We loved the creaminess of the lattes here, and the atmosphere was perfect to rest our feet and enjoy the quiet ambiance. This spot reflects the charm of good food in Berkeley with a café culture that locals cherish.
Top Things to Do in Berkeley, California
Drive to The Lawrence Hall of Science for a good morning photo op!
The Lawrence Hall of Science is a public science center in Berkeley, California, that offers hands-on science exhibits, designs curriculum, aids professional development, and offers after-school science resources to students of all ages. While it’s a center for Berkeley’s community, it is also architecturally a beautiful building. This popular photo spot is frequented by many tourists who marvel at the gorgeous design as well as the stunning view. A must for anyone searching for things to do in Berkeley.
Visit the Berkeley Rose Garden and Codornices Park
Drive up into the Berkeley Hills to visit the Berkeley Rose Garden and Codornices Park just across the street, where the East Bay’s largest slide is free and fun! These are peaceful spots for families or couples enjoying Berkeley places to visit that combine natural beauty with recreation.
UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley
Take a stroll through the UC Botanical Garden to see one of North America’s greatest collections of rare and genetically pure plant varieties. Herbologists from all over come to the UC Botanical Garden to study and conduct research on plants. To us, it felt like visiting a zoo of purely beautiful plants. The cacti and jungle exhibits blew our minds. There are also sweeping views of San Francisco across the water from the hill’s top. This makes it one of the best things to do in Berkeley for travelers who love nature.
Take a stroll along student-centric Telegraph Avenue
The hip and trendy Telegraph Avenue is the city center of UC Berkeley. Lined with cute shops and great restaurants, you’ll have plenty to do exploring this neighborhood. Make sure to stop by Telegraph Ave’s famous cupcake shop, Cupcakin Bake Shop, where the range of creative flavors and toppings is nearly endless. Make your way to the north end of Telegraph Avenue to explore the UC Berkeley campus, Berkeley’s “central park”. The Telegraph is truly a highlight among fun things to do in Berkeley.
Spend the Weekend in Tiburon, California
Just north of San Francisco, across the bay, is the quaint and lovely community of Tiburon. The small fishing town sits on the edge of a peninsula that juts out into the San Francisco Bay. From nearly every angle, you are superimposed with the backdrop of San Francisco’s skyline. Tiburon is the epitome of living the good life. With great food, great wine, and a clean harbor-like atmosphere, you’ll definitely want to make the trek over the Golden Gate Bridge to visit this stunning California gem. Book a room at The Water’s Edge Hotel to be in the heart of Tiburon’s tiny downtown area, and quite literally at the water’s edge. With rustic and elegant suites providing views of the city, and close proximity to the best restaurants in Tiburon, you’ll fall in love with the calm waters.
Where to Eat in Tiburon
Brunch at Salt & Pepper Cafe
Right off of Tiburon’s main street downtown is the Salt & Pepper Cafe, offering tasty American fare with seafood options. It’s a warm and easygoing spot to sit in the sun and enjoy a great bite to eat. A casual favorite among restaurants in Tiburon, CA.
Dinner at Sam’s Anchor Cafe
Our favorite restaurant in Tiburon, and arguably the most famous in the area, is Sam’s Anchor Cafe. Renowned for its seafood and views of San Francisco from the docks that jut off of its back patio dining space, Sam’s Anchor Cafe is a must-visit for anyone venturing to Tiburon. This lively waterfront spot also boasts views of Angel Island, making it one of the best restaurants in Tiburon.
Breakfast at Tiburon Tavern
For another great breakfast option, head to Tiburon Tavern. Located on the first floor of the Lodge at Tiburon, this cozy tavern offers Northern Californian coastal cuisine with a gastropub vibe. The space has plenty of outdoor firepits & even offers a happy hour regularly, a great way to start the day with good food in the Bay Area.
Things to Do in Tiburon, California
Tandem kayaking with SeaTrek Kayaking
SeaTrek Kayaking is located at the Bay Model Visitor Center at 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965. The office is nestled just beyond the small parking area near the waterfront. When staying in Tiburon, spending the day out on the water is one of the best ways to enjoy the area. Kayak the breakers between Sausalito and Tiburon, enjoy the views, and observe the wildlife from pelicans and seals to whales breaching! This is a highlight among what to do in Tiburon, California.
Wine tasting at Squalo Vino
The newest addition to Tiburon’s downtown wine scene, Squalo Vino, is located in the heart of Tiburon and offers rare and exquisite wine selections alongside light fare. Stop by and enjoy a glass or two on their streetside patio area, a sophisticated stop for anyone exploring the best restaurants in Tiburon, California, and beyond.
Explore historic Ark Row
Just beyond downtown Tiburon is a row of historic buildings called Ark Row. The shopping area is on Main Street at the base of Corinthian Island. The shops are mostly former ark boats. The scenic "Ark Row" shops are actually housed in turn-of-the-century boat houses that were converted into homes and shops when the lagoon between the Tiburon peninsula and the neighboring island of Belvedere was filled in. A charming addition to the list of places to eat in the Bay Area and shop locally.
Enjoy Golden Hour at Hippie Tree
The best view and classic California viewpoint in the area. The view from Hippie Tree is visited locally by many from San Francisco and is perfect for photos. To get to the viewpoint, follow these directions:
Turn off Tiburon Boulevard onto Gilmartin Drive.
Park near 100 Gilmartin Drive (there are parking spaces across from the fire road entrance).
Walk up the hill on the fire road to reach the Hippie Tree.
Entrance to the fire road is across from 100 Gilmartin Drive.
There are two swings free to use that hang from the tree. This is a great location for a light picnic or simply to enjoy the sunset. The walk from the parking area is short, not too steep. Visiting Hippie Tree is a great cap to a very memorable trip.
Bike ride around Tiburon and Paradise Drive
If you’re staying at The Water’s Edge Hotel, you can rent bikes there for free to bike around Tiburon and Paradise Loop. Enjoy the waterfront and explore away as you zoom by views of Angel Island and Historic Ark Row. A fun way to pair scenic beauty with exploring sights and restaurants in Tiburon, California, nearby, for a full-day experience.
More to Explore
If you’re planning a trip—or already lucky enough to call Seattle home—this guide is for you. Here, I’m sharing some outstanding LGBTQ+-owned businesses, the top places to eat in Seattle, the best bars to visit in Seattle, and a variety of iconic (and lesser-known) attractions that Michael and I just can’t resist.