*Cove of Keller Beach and train tracks to downtown Point Richmond*

A few weeks ago my Mom and I got lost on purpose and discovered the quaint historical town, Point Richmond. Once called the “Pittsburg of the west”, the town boomed in the early 1900’s brought by Chevron building a refinery on the railway line which was connected at the “point” by the ferry to SF. This weekend we came back to explore the Miller Knox Regional Shoreline, which is 306 acres of park, hiking & biking trails and Keller beach, a favorite swimming spot on the east shore. The combination of the charming downtown oozing with beautiful architecture and this vast nature preserve makes for a great day of exploration and discovery.

*Picnic area surrounding a saltwater lagoon @ Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline*

We set up here with a view of the bay through the trees and a stones throw from a children’s playground to keep our kids occupied. With an epic climbing wall and some American Ninja Warrior like swiveling monkey bars it kept their interest and ours for that matter. We brought a football because our two year old is obsessed however we found the fields filled with geese and their poop so it was a bit dodgy. With tons of parking, ample picnic space and plenty of tables, it was a nice change up from Golden Gate Park which is only a few blocks from our house. When we walked up to the shoreline you can follow the train tracks towards a vista of the city skyline in one direction or past the beach & through a tunnel to arrive back downtown.

*Painted rocks line the shore with a sweet sailing school in the backdrop*

Back downtown you can grab a solid cup of joe at kaleidoscope coffee on Park Place which as streets go, it looks like a movie set. If you’re looking to grab a drink or catch a game, the up and under is a rugby bar that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported to a pub on the outskirts of London. The Municipal Natatorium, also known as the Plunge, is one of the world's largest saltwater pools. Built in 1926, it was a vision reminiscent of the Sutro baths with open ceilings, observation balconies and a fountain. It survives today having been retrofit and renovated largely thanks to donations from local businesses and Bay Area foundations.

*Municipal Natatorium 1 E Richmond Ave., Richmond, CA 94801*

On this particular Sunday we drove south, through the park, past the Richmond Yacht Club and Brickyard Cove neighborhood. As you loop around the hill you are hit with the industrial Chevron Oil Refinery and industrial parks. East Brothers Brewery is located here which has an outdoor tasting room. This particular day was their 4 year anniversary and they were booked with reservations. No problem, we grabbed some cans of their red lager and red IPA togo. To match the mood we also grabbed some red tacos and a torta of Birria from La Santa Torta food truck parked outside along with elote and dulce de leche churros. Perfect for a little happy hour tail gate before heading home. I have found eating out of my trunk more enjoyable in the age of Covid because the kids stay contained playing in the car versus trying to run off a parklet into a busy street. Think of it as a literal street party.

Being in San Francisco, Marin and Sonoma counties for 35+ years of my life, it is rare that I find a new discovery on this level. I cannot wait to come back to hike and discover more about the gems this sweet town has to offer. Til next time Point Richmond… can’t wait!