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Start your journey at Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead, where towering redwoods rise like cathedral pillars, sunlight slicing through the canopy like golden threads. Each step echoes with forest magic, and you might just catch a glimpse of a deer slipping through the mist—this trail isn’t just a hike, it’s a conversation with nature.
Everything you need to know about Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead
Stay at Oakland Marriott City Center, just 1.5 km from Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead, offering convenient access via walk or bike. The hotel features free parking, 24-hour room service, and on-site cafes and convenience stores perfect for pre-hike fueling. Enjoy a healthy breakfast in the hotel before heading out, and some rooms offer views of the Oakland skyline and distant California redwood forests—a rare blend of urban comfort and natural beauty.
Walk west along Lakeshore Avenue for about 10 minutes from Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead to find The Grind Coffee & Kitchen. This cozy café is known for locally roasted coffee and Mediterranean-inspired light meals. Its outdoor seating offers scenic views of the Oakland Bay, making it ideal for post-hike relaxation. Featuring organic ingredients, the menu includes whole-grain sandwiches, quinoa salads, and plant-based beverages. Visit after 10 a.m. to enjoy a peaceful meal without crowds.
Beyond hiking, families can explore Oakland Zoo and Lake Merritt Wildlife Sanctuary nearby. At the zoo, children can visit the polar bear and jaguar exhibits, while the lake’s trails offer birdwatching opportunities for ducks, herons, and migratory species. Interactive signage and kid-friendly maps enhance learning. Weekly Nature Exploration Days feature hands-on activities like eco-crafts, nature sketching, and guided walks—perfect for teaching kids conservation through play.
Start at Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead at 8 a.m., hiking 3 km to Redwood Grove to admire towering California redwoods and lush ferns. Return to downtown Oakland for lunch at Jack London Square, featuring seafood restaurants and open-air markets. In the afternoon, visit the Oakland Museum of California to explore regional history and ecology. End the day with a sunset stroll around Lake Merritt, enjoying reflections on the water. All sites are within a 15-minute drive, making this a seamless and enriching one-day nature adventure.
Recommended is Oakland Marriott City Center, just a 5-minute drive from Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead, offering an indoor pool, free parking, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel’s proximity to Lake Merritt and Davies Plaza makes it ideal for families combining nature hikes with urban exploration. Its easy access to Bayview Park provides scenic views of San Francisco Bay, perfect for kids and parents alike seeking a balanced outdoor experience.
Head west on Lakeshore Avenue for about 800 meters to reach Bistro 23, a French-inspired bistro using locally sourced ingredients. With its industrial-chic design and outdoor patio overlooking Lake Merritt, it offers a serene dining atmosphere. Try their signature grilled salmon with herb mashed potatoes paired with a glass of California wine—ideal for unwinding after a hike in the scenic Oakland hills.
The Westin Oakland is an excellent choice, located on the shores of Lake Merritt with low light pollution and rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights. The hotel hosts regular stargazing events and offers telescope rentals. Guests can enjoy panoramic night skies from the property’s rooftop terrace, making it a top destination for astronomy enthusiasts seeking both comfort and celestial beauty.
Yes, AC Transit Bus Line 71 runs directly to the trailhead every 30 minutes, taking only 15 minutes from downtown Oakland. Alternatively, BART's Oakland Coliseum Station is within 1.5 km, with a 5-minute transfer via shuttle or taxi. Several nearby lodgings offer free shuttle services to the trail entrance, ensuring hassle-free access for hikers and eco-conscious travelers alike.
The Lakeshore Trail and Crestline Drive near Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead offer stunning photo opportunities. At sunrise, mist blankets Lake Merritt, reflecting distant Twin Peaks—perfect for long-exposure shots. The Golden Gate Bridge appears in certain angles, especially when shot with a telephoto lens. Additionally, the ancient redwood groves and stone pathways in Bayview Park create natural frames ideal for portrait and landscape photography, especially with a tripod and polarizing filter.
Yes, Outdoor Gear Co. is located right at the trailhead entrance, offering lightweight backpacks, trekking poles, traction cleats, and energy bars. They also provide free water refill stations and up-to-date trail condition maps. For additional supplies, Whole Foods Market (1.2 km away) stocks premium hiking snacks, electrolyte drinks, and high-performance apparel—making it a must-stop before hitting the trails.
See what other travelers say about Sequoia Bayview Trail Trailhead
Staying at this hotel was a real highlight of my trip to Oakland. Located right on the lake, the views are absolutely stunning—especially in the morning when I went for a peaceful jog along the waterfront. The breakfast included was simple but satisfying, and the staff were friendly and attentive. Parking is paid, which is fair considering the prime location. While dining options are a bit of a walk away, I actually preferred staying in and relaxing on the balcony, watching the calm waters reflect the sky. It’s such a serene atmosphere that made me want to stay put all evening. The overall experience was excellent, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.
The Executive Inn & Suites Oakland offers a peaceful and comfortable stay with excellent service throughout. While the surrounding area is quiet and lacks nearby shopping or dining options, the hotel itself has a convenient on-site restaurant—perfect for those who prefer staying in during their trip. If you value a serene atmosphere and don’t mind limited dining choices outside the property, this hotel delivers great value. The location is also well-connected to public transit, making it easy to explore downtown Oakland. Overall, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience without the noise of a bustling neighborhood.
Located near Oakland's waterfront, the hotel offers a pleasant atmosphere with a small bay view—great for relaxing. However, the surrounding neighborhood can be a bit concerning, especially after dark. I’d recommend avoiding walking around the area unless necessary and opting for rideshare services instead for safety. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and staff are friendly and helpful. While the location has its risks, the property’s comfort and service make it a solid choice if you’re cautious about movement outside the premises. Overall, a good stay with a few caveats for security-conscious travelers.
I stayed at Bay Breeze Inn during J-Hope's concert in Oakland, and it was an absolutely perfect choice! The staff were incredibly polite and welcoming from check-in to check-out. The room was spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and offered great value for money—especially considering how close we were to the Oakland Arena. I didn’t have to worry about long commutes or traffic, and parking was convenient and free. The location made everything so easy—just a short walk to the venue, yet quiet enough to get a good night’s sleep after the show. Everything about this stay felt thoughtful and comfortable. If you're visiting Oakland for a concert or just want a cozy, affordable place with friendly service, I highly recommend this gem. It’s definitely my go-to hotel now!
I stayed at Piedmont Place in Oakland and was pleasantly surprised by how convenient and comfortable it was. The location is excellent—just a short walk to public transit and close to restaurants, cafes, and local shops. My room (212) was clean, quiet, and well-maintained with all the essentials I needed. While it’s not your typical hotel in appearance, it definitely works as a great budget-friendly option for travelers who value practicality over luxury. The staff were friendly and helpful, and check-in/check-out went smoothly. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay without compromising on comfort or safety. Perfect for solo travelers, weekend getaways, or even extended stays on a tight budget.
Staying at this motel was a pleasant surprise! The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to the downtown area and easily accessible by public transit. There are plenty of great dining options nearby, so you don’t have to go far for a good meal. The room wasn’t huge, but it was clean, well-maintained, and had all the essentials. The bed was comfortable, and I slept really well. What stood out most was the incredible value for money—great quality without the high price tag. The staff were friendly and helpful, making check-in smooth and stress-free. If you’re visiting Oakland on a budget but still want a reliable, comfortable stay, this place is a top pick. I’d definitely book here again and recommend it to anyone looking for a no-fuss, smart choice.
Staying at Highlander Motel was an absolute delight! This family-run gem stands out from the rest with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The owners are incredibly approachable and genuinely kind—like staying with friends rather than a hotel. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with all the essentials you’d need for a relaxing stay. It’s perfectly located for exploring Oakland and nearby areas—super easy to get around by public transit or car. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting the Bay Area, whether traveling solo, with family, or on a weekend getaway. I’ve already planned my next trip back—Highlander Motel is definitely my top pick.
This place is a complete disappointment and doesn't even meet basic hotel standards. The photos online are misleading—nothing matches what you actually get. Upon arrival, we found no towels, no shower curtain, not even a chair in the room. The heater didn’t work at all, making the space uncomfortable, especially in cooler weather. Parking was chaotic and extremely difficult to navigate. The overall condition of the property felt outdated and poorly maintained. I wouldn’t recommend staying here under any circumstances—avoid it completely if you want a decent experience.
The Continental Lodge is a hidden gem in Oakland—clean, well-maintained, and incredibly affordable. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and hassle-free. We appreciated their warm welcome and quick assistance with any questions we had. While the neighborhood is still evolving, we felt safe throughout our visit. Our car stayed securely parked overnight with no issues at all. For a reliable, budget-friendly option in a city where good deals are hard to find, this motel stands out. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort without the premium price.
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