Moraga Travel Guide

Discover all the top attractions, activities, accommodations, and travel tips in Moraga, California with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Moraga

Located in Contra Costa County in East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area, Moraga is a small, affluent town that is known for its stunning natural beauty and biking and hiking trails. With easy access to San Francisco and the surrounding area, Moraga is the perfect getaway for those looking for a peaceful stay in the lap of nature. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Moraga, including the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, where to eat, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Moraga

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art: Located on the beautiful Saint Mary’s College campus, this museum showcases a collection of art from around the world, with a focus on California and the Bay Area.
  • Moraga Adobe: This historic adobe was built in 1841 and is the oldest building in Moraga. It is now a museum showcasing the history of the town and the surrounding area.
  • Hearst Art Gallery: Located on the Saint Mary’s College campus, the Hearst Art Gallery is a beautiful space that showcases works of art from around the world.

Natural Attractions of Moraga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Saint Mary’s Regional Preserve: This 440-acre park has over 5 miles of hiking trails, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Rancho Laguna Park: This park is a favorite spot for locals, with a playground, picnic tables, and hiking trails.
  • Lafayette Reservoir: This picturesque reservoir is surrounded by beautiful hills and has walking trails, fishing, and boat rentals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moraga

Moraga is famous for its hiking and biking trails, with miles of scenic routes that take you through the hills and valleys of the Bay Area. Some popular trails include:

  • Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail: This 7.65-mile trail is popular with hikers and bikers and connects the towns of Lafayette and Moraga.
  • Lamorinda Trail: This 7.65-mile trail connects Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda, with stunning views of the Bay Area.
  • Briones Regional Park: This 6,255-acre park has over 50 miles of hiking trails and is a popular spot for mountain biking, with trails ranging from easy to difficult.

Best Things to Do in Moraga: Activities and Tours

  • Moraga Farmers Market: This weekly market features local farmers and artisans, with fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music.
  • Moraga Art Walk: This annual event showcases local artists and galleries, with a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
  • Moraga Summer Concert Series: This free, family-friendly concert series takes place every summer, with live music from a variety of genres.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moraga

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art and the Moraga Adobe
Day 2 Hike the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail
Day 3 Visit the Hearst Art Gallery and explore the town of Moraga
Day 4 Explore the natural beauty of Briones Regional Park
Day 5 Picnic at Rancho Laguna Park and stroll around the Lafayette Reservoir
Day 6 Enjoy the Moraga Farmers Market and take a bike ride on the Lamorinda Trail
Day 7 Attend a concert at the Moraga Summer Concert Series

Food and Drink Scene of Moraga

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poke Bowl: This Hawaiian dish is a popular choice in Moraga, with fresh fish, vegetables, and rice.
  • Tacos: There are several great taco spots in Moraga, with a variety of fillings and sauces.
  • Burgers: Classic American burgers are a staple in Moraga, with several local favorites.

Local Beverages

  • Saint Mary’s Brewery: This local brewery has a variety of craft beers that are popular with locals and tourists alike.
  • Lafayette Wine & Spirits: This wine shop stocks local California wines, including several wineries from the Napa and Sonoma Valley regions.

Where to Stay in Moraga: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Moraga Country Inn: This budget-friendly inn is located in the heart of downtown Moraga, and is an excellent option for travelers on a budget.
  • The Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa: This luxury hotel is located just a short drive from Moraga, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

What to Buy in Moraga: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Moraga Olive Oil: This local olive oil is made from the olives grown in the hills around Moraga and is a favorite among locals and tourists.
  • Moraga Honey: This locally harvested honey is known for its pure and natural flavors.
  • Moraga Art: Take home a piece of local art from one of the many galleries and exhibitions in Moraga.

Local Culture and Customs of Moraga

Moraga is a small town, and locals are proud of their community. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere, with a focus on outdoor activities and the arts. The town is known for its beautiful parks and natural scenery, and visitors are encouraged to explore the hiking and biking trails and enjoy the local arts and culture scene.

Best Time to Visit Moraga

The best time to visit Moraga is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the hills are green and lush. Summers can be hot, and winters can be chilly, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that some outdoor activities may be limited during the winter months due to rain and mud.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moraga

Do:

  • Do explore the hiking and biking trails in Moraga.
  • Do support local businesses and artisans.
  • Do visit the local museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave valuables visible in your car.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t be noisy or disruptive in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Moraga

Overall, Moraga is a safe town, with low rates of crime and a friendly community. However, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when hiking or biking in remote areas.

Health in Moraga

There are several hospitals and medical centers in the nearby cities of Lafayette and Walnut Creek, should medical attention be required. Visitors should also be careful when hiking and biking and take precautions to avoid injuries or accidents.

Getting to Moraga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Moraga

The nearest major airport to Moraga is Oakland International Airport, which is located about 20 miles away. San Francisco International Airport is also an option, located about 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Moraga

The nearest bus station to Moraga is in Lafayette, which is serviced by several bus lines.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service from the airport or nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Moraga

The best way to get around Moraga is by car or bike, as the town is spread out, and many attractions and activities are located outside of downtown. There are a few local bus lines, but service is limited.

Where to Go Next from Moraga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Francisco: A vibrant city with a rich history, San Francisco is located just 20 miles away from Moraga.
  • Berkeley: Known for its vibrant culture and famous university, Berkeley is located just 10 miles away.
  • Napa Valley: The renowned wine country of Napa Valley is just a short drive away, with stunning vineyards and wineries to explore.

Conclusion

Moraga is a small town with a big heart, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore the local arts and culture scene. With beautiful hiking and biking trails, a variety of outdoor activities, and a warm and welcoming community, Moraga is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway in the San Francisco Bay Area.