Contra Costa County Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Contra Costa County, including places to visit, hiking routes, food scenes, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Contra Costa County

Located in the beautiful region of East Bay within the greater Bay Area of California, Contra Costa County boasts a diverse range of natural attractions, culturally significant landmarks, and outdoor adventures.

Filled with stunning valleys and rolling hills, this county is home to bustling cities, charming small towns, long stretch of beaches, and scenic views. With plenty of things to see and do here, visitors will undoubtedly have an unforgettable experience.

List of Places to Visit in Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County is a destination that offers a wide array of attractions and activities for tourists to indulge in. Visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage, witness the stunning natural beauty, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, fishing, camping, and more. Here are the must-visit places in Contra Costa County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Blackhawk Museum: For art and history aficionados, the Blackhawk Museum boasts an extensive collection of classic, rare, and unique automobiles, artifacts, antiques, and art.
  • John Marsh House: A National Historical Landmark, built-in 1856, the John Marsh House has extensive vineyards and showcases the life and work of the physician and pioneer.
  • Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site: A popular tourist attraction, the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site is the home of America’s only Nobel Prize for Literature-winning playwright, Eugene Gladstone O’Neill.
  • Shell Ridge Open Space: A perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Shell Ridge Open Space offers scenic hiking trails, picnicking, and stunning views of Mount Diablo.

Natural Attractions of Contra Costa County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Diablo State Park: Sitting at an elevation of 3,849 feet above sea level, Mount Diablo State Park offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area, hiking, camping, rock climbing, stargazing, and more.
  • Iron Horse Regional Trail: A 33-mile paved trail that crosses the communities from Concord to Livermore, the Iron Horse Regional Trail is an ideal destination for hiking, biking, or skating and offers stunning views.
  • Contra Loma Regional Park: Located in Antioch, this park offers amenities such as a lake for swimming, fishing, and boating as well as a picnic area, hiking trails, and a campground.
  • Todos Santos Plaza: A family-favorite destination, Todos Santos Plaza features outdoor music, movies, and other events held throughout the year along with terrific restaurants and cafes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County has established itself as an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. It features hiking and biking trails that offer a diverse range of views and environments. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Contra Costa County:

  • Lafayette Reservoir Rim Trail: A challenging and hilly route, the Lafayette Reservoir Rim Trail is approximately four miles long and offers stunning views of the reservoir and surrounding hills.
  • Briones Regional Park: With over 50 miles of hiking trails, Briones Regional Park is a favorite destination among locals and tourists alike. The park offers a range of trails suitable for all levels of hikers and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills, bay, and Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Bay Area Ridge Trail: The Bay Area Ridge Trail is a go-to destination for hikers who are looking for scenic views of the Bay Area. It offers over 550 miles of hiking trails that cross parks and open spaces to highways and cities.
  • Iron Horse Trail: The Iron Horse Trail is a paved trail stretching 32 miles through a corridor in the heart of the county. It provides a safe place for residents to bicycle, walk or run and offers breathtaking views of the valley and the Mount Diablo hills.

Best Things to Do in Contra Costa County: Activities and Tours

Contra Costa County offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Contra Costa County:

  • Napa Valley Wine Train: Take a relaxing tour of the Napa Valley on this historic railroad. The tour includes a delightful gourmet lunch with wine.
  • Diablo Rock Gym: A great spot for rock climbing and bouldering, Diablo Rock Gym is an indoor climbing facility in Concord.
  • Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Concord: A summer family destination that offers a variety of water rides and activities.
  • Walnut Creek Farmers’ Market: This outdoor market is held on Sundays and features a wide range of local produce, artisanal foods, and baked goods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County has endless opportunities for visitors to explore. Here is a week-long itinerary to get the most out of your visit to Contra Costa County:

Day 1-3: Explore the many hiking trails and outdoor attractions, including Mount Diablo, Black Diamond Mines, and Iron Horse Regional Trail.

Day 4-5: Visit the John Marsh House and the Blackhawk Auto Museum, and take a relaxing trip on the Napa Valley Wine Train.

Day 6-7: Take in the view at the Todos Santos Plaza and Walnut Creek Farmers’ Market, and finish with a visit to the Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Concord.

Food and Drink Scene of Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County provides a bountiful food scene that incorporates organic and sustainable local produce, regional recipes, and global cuisine. Here is a list of dishes, local beverages, where to stay, and products to buy:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Prawn South Indian-style curry: This fragrant, aromatic, and spicy dish is filled with fresh prawns, mixed with Indian spices and coconut cream, served with naan bread.
  • Grilled Lamb Chops: Locally produced and a consistent favorite, marinated with garlic, herbs de Provence, and potatoes.
  • Tri-tip Sandwiches: Carefully roasted on open flames with the significant amount of hickory, a tri-tip sandwich is a local favorite.

Local Beverages

  • Napa Valley wine: Due to its nearby location, Contra Costa County offers an impressive selection of California’s best vineyards and wineries.
  • Local breweries: The county offers a wide range of local breweries.

Where to Stay in Contra Costa County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Contra Costa County offers a range of accommodations for travelers of all budgets.

  • The Inn at the Tides: Features rustic wood interiors, located on Sonoma Bay.
  • Hotel Winters: A chic and modern hotel near Davis that features a spa and restaurant.
  • Graduate Berkeley: A historic hotel located near the University of California, Berkeley, in the heart of the Bay Area.

What to Buy in Contra Costa County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive oil: Contra Costa County boasts award-winning olive groves, producing extra-virgin olive oil.
  • Wine from Napa Valley: Contra Costa County is within proximity to the Napa Valley area. Hence, it is home to some of America’s most prestigious vineyards and wineries.
  • Ceramics, painting, sculpture: The county features numerous shops selling handcrafted ceramics, paintings, and sculptures, making a perfect souvenir for history enthusiasts.

Local Culture and Customs of Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County’s culture and customs are deeply ingrained in the county’s rich history, which spans centuries. Its culture is a melting pot of various cuisines, music, art, drama, and other forms of creative expression. The county embraces a live-and-let-live philosophy and welcomes visitors from all walks of life with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County is home to several micro-climates depending on the region. As a result, it gets the year-round California sunshine. Spring typically has plenty of wildflowers, filled with colorful, fragrant blooms. Summers are typically hot and dry, with warm evenings, making it ideal of outdoor adventures. Autumn is perfect weather for Hiking around Mount Diablo when the leaves turn golden. December to January is a good time to visit with light showers, fewer crowds and relatively comfortable temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Contra Costa County

Do:

  • Take in the stunning views of Mount Diablo and the Bay Area from the Iron Horse Trail.
  • Venture out and explore the numerous hiking trails throughout the county.
  • Explore the local food and beverage scene.

Don’t:

  • Litter and pollute the natural environment in any way.
  • Trespass on private properties and private hiking trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County is generally a safe destination. Crime is rare in the hiking trails and public spaces if you take necessary precautions. Also, don’t leave any valuables in sight in your car and always park where lots are supervised.

Health in Contra Costa County

Global health organizations continue to advise travelers to visit local health clinics for vaccines and precautionary measures before travel. Visitors are also advised to use sunscreen, have enough water to stay hydrated and carry an insect repellent.

Getting to Contra Costa County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Contra Costa County

  • Oakland International Airport
  • San Francisco International Airport
  • San Jose Airport

Bus Stations Near Contra Costa County

  • Greyhound Station in Oakland
  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)

Other Options to Get to Contra Costa County

  • Amtrak station in Martinez is the nearest train station.
  • The quickest way to get to Contra Costa County from San Francisco is by car, with a journey time of around 40 minutes.

How to Get Around in Contra Costa County

Public transportation is pretty limited in Contra Costa County. The Iron Horse Trail is a bike-friendly path that traverses several cities in the county. These are the top transportation options to get around in Contra Costa County:

  • Rental cars
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft
  • Bike-sharing is available in some cities like Martinez and Pleasant Hill

Where to Go Next from Contra Costa County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Contra Costa County is perfectly located near several other popular destinations that visitors might choose to explore next. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • San Francisco: One hour from Contra Costa County, visitors can explore the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Fisherman’s Wharf.
  • Napa Valley: A 45-minute drive from Contra Costa County, visitors can explore the lush vineyards and world-renowned wineries known for their Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel.
  • Lake Tahoe: A 3-hour drive from the county, Lake Tahoe offers a stunning natural setting perfect for boating, swimming, camping, and skiing.

Conclusion

Contra Costa County offers a rich blend of natural attractions, interesting historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and a diverse food and drink scene. With its sunny weather, pristine parks, scenic views, and easy access to nearby destinations like San Francisco, Napa, and Lake Tahoe, visitors to the county will enjoy an unforgettable experience.



    Antioch
    Brentwood
    Clayton
    Danville
    Discovery Bay
    El Cerrito
    Lafayette
    Martinez
    Moraga
    Orinda
    Pinole
    Pittsburg
    Richmond
    San Ramon
    Walnut Creek