Contra Costa County, California: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Contra Costa County boasts over 120,000 acres of protected open space and parks, making it one of the Bay Area’s most underrated outdoor paradises? This East Bay gem offers everything from mountain hikes with panoramic views to historic sites and charming waterfront towns, all within a short drive from San Francisco. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Contra Costa County delivers unexpected delights at every turn.

Getting to Contra Costa County

Located in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area, Contra Costa County is easily accessible by various transportation methods. The closest major airport is Oakland International Airport (OAK), approximately 20 miles from the county’s western border. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is another option, about 35 miles away.

By car, Interstate 680 runs north-south through central Contra Costa County, while Highway 24 connects the area to Oakland and Interstate 80 provides access from Sacramento and San Francisco. BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) offers convenient public transportation with stations throughout the county, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the Bay Area.

Best Time to Visit Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) when temperatures are pleasant (65-75°F) and wildflowers blanket the hillsides of Mount Diablo and other natural areas. Fall (September to November) offers similarly comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds.

Summer (June to August) brings warmer temperatures, especially in the eastern parts of the county where readings can exceed 90°F. However, this is ideal for water activities along the Delta. Winter (December to February) sees occasional rainfall but remains relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F, making year-round exploration possible.

Getting Around Contra Costa County

While having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Contra Costa County’s diverse attractions, several public transportation options are available. BART connects major towns including Richmond, El Cerrito, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Concord, and Pittsburg. County Connection and Tri-Delta Transit bus services complement the rail system, reaching areas not served by BART.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the county boasts an extensive network of bike trails, including the popular Iron Horse Regional Trail that runs 32 miles through the San Ramon Valley. Many towns are also pedestrian-friendly, particularly the downtown areas of Walnut Creek, Lafayette, and Martinez.

Where to Stay in Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Walnut Creek serves as a central hub with several upscale hotels and easy access to shopping and dining. The Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa provides luxury accommodations in a convenient location near Highway 24 and BART.

For business travelers, Concord and San Ramon offer modern hotels near corporate centers. Budget-conscious visitors might consider options in Pleasant Hill or Martinez, which provide good value while maintaining accessibility to major attractions. Waterfront accommodations in Pittsburg or Antioch offer unique views of the Delta for those seeking a different perspective.

Mount Diablo State Park: The Crown Jewel

Rising 3,849 feet above the surrounding landscape, Mount Diablo stands as Contra Costa County’s most iconic natural landmark. On clear days, the summit offers extraordinary views spanning 40 of California’s 58 counties—one of the largest viewsheds in the western United States. The 20,000-acre state park surrounding the mountain features over 150 miles of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.

The Summit Visitor Center, housed in a historic stone building constructed in the 1930s, provides fascinating exhibits on the area’s natural and cultural history. Don’t miss the short but scenic Summit Trail, which circles the peak and offers 360-degree panoramas. For wildflower enthusiasts, the Mitchell Canyon area explodes with color during spring, while Rock City’s unique sandstone formations delight climbers and families alike.

Entrance fees are $10 per vehicle, and the park is open from 8 AM until sunset. For the best experience, arrive early in the morning to secure parking at popular trailheads and enjoy clearer views before afternoon haze develops.

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve

Step back in time at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, where California’s largest coal mining operation once thrived. This 6,000-acre park in Antioch preserves the fascinating history of five mining towns that boomed in the late 19th century. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this industrial past while enjoying spectacular wildflower displays and unique sandstone formations.

The Sidney Flat Visitor Center, housed in a reconstructed mining powerhouse, offers exhibits on both the natural and human history of the area. During spring and summer, guided tours of the Hazel-Atlas Mine provide a rare opportunity to venture underground and experience mining conditions firsthand. The nearby Rose Hill Cemetery, final resting place for many miners and their families, offers a poignant glimpse into the hardships of frontier life.

Hikers will appreciate the preserve’s 65 miles of trails winding through oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands. The Stewartville Trail leads to panoramic ridge views, while the Chaparral Loop showcases native plant communities. The park charges a $5 parking fee on weekends and holidays (April-October) and is open from 8 AM to sunset.

Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area

The Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area offers a peaceful retreat just minutes from Highway 24. This 925-acre park features a picturesque man-made lake surrounded by oak-studded hills, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. The paved 2.7-mile Lakeside Trail is perfect for casual walkers and families, while the more challenging 4.7-mile Rim Trail rewards hikers with spectacular views of the reservoir and surrounding valleys.

Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck catching rainbow trout, catfish, bass, and bluegill, with regular fish stocking enhancing opportunities throughout the year. Rental boats (rowboats, pedal boats, and canoes) are available for those wanting to explore the 126-acre reservoir from the water. No swimming is allowed, but the reservoir’s peaceful setting makes it ideal for photography and wildlife watching.

The recreation area includes several picnic sites with barbecue pits, playgrounds for children, and clean restroom facilities. Parking fees apply ($7 weekdays, $9 weekends), and the park is open from 6 AM to sunset, with extended summer hours.

Historic Sites and Museums

John Muir National Historic Site

In Martinez, the John Muir National Historic Site preserves the 14-room Victorian home and surrounding fruit ranch where the famous naturalist and father of the National Park Service lived from 1890 until his death in 1914. Visitors can tour Muir’s home, filled with original furnishings and personal items, and explore the surrounding 325 acres of oak woodland and orchards that inspired his conservation efforts.

The site includes a visitor center with exhibits on Muir’s life and legacy, as well as the Martinez Adobe, a Spanish colonial building dating to 1849. A short trail leads to the summit of Mount Wanda, named after Muir’s daughter, where the conservationist often took evening walks with his children. Admission is free, and ranger-led programs offer deeper insights into Muir’s profound influence on America’s environmental movement.

Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site

Literature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site in Danville, where America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright wrote his final and most acclaimed works. The Tao House, O’Neill’s home from 1937 to 1944, is preserved much as it was during his residence, offering visitors a glimpse into the environment where masterpieces like “The Iceman Cometh” and “Long Day’s Journey Into Night” were created.

Due to limited parking, the site is accessible only by shuttle from downtown Danville. Reservations are required for tours, which are offered Wednesday through Sunday. The property’s serene setting in the San Ramon Valley, with views of Mount Diablo, reflects the tranquility O’Neill sought for his creative work. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.

Family-Friendly Activities

Lindsay Wildlife Experience

The Lindsay Wildlife Experience in Walnut Creek offers a unique opportunity for families to connect with native California wildlife. As one of the oldest wildlife rehabilitation centers in the United States, it provides care for more than 5,000 injured and orphaned animals annually. The center’s museum features over 50 species of live animal ambassadors—creatures that cannot be released back into the wild due to permanent injuries.

Interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages, with opportunities to observe wildlife up close during daily animal presentations. Children particularly enjoy the hands-on discovery room and the chance to watch wildlife hospital procedures through a special viewing window. The center is open Wednesday through Sunday, with admission at $12 for adults and $10 for children and seniors.

Waterworld California

During hot summer days, Waterworld California in Concord provides welcome relief with over 35 water attractions suitable for all ages. Thrill-seekers can brave the Break Point Plunge, a 270-foot free-fall water slide, while families with young children enjoy the gentler waves of the Breaker Beach wave pool and the interactive features of Lil’ Kahuna’s Waterworks.

The park typically operates from May through September, with varying hours throughout the season. Admission prices range from $30 to $45 depending on height and online discounts. Cabana rentals offer a comfortable home base for families planning a full day at the park.

Outdoor Recreation Beyond Hiking

Delta Water Adventures

Eastern Contra Costa County borders the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, offering exceptional opportunities for water recreation. The Delta’s 1,000-mile network of waterways creates a paradise for boating, fishing, and water sports. Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley serves as an excellent introduction to the Delta ecosystem, with kayak rentals and guided paddle tours available on weekends.

Fishing enthusiasts target striped bass, sturgeon, and catfish in these productive waters. Several marinas in Pittsburg, Antioch, and Bethel Island provide boat launches, equipment rentals, and fishing guides. For a unique perspective, consider a Delta cruise from the Pittsburg Marina, offering narrated tours that highlight the area’s ecological importance and rich history.

Cycling the Iron Horse Trail

The Iron Horse Regional Trail, built on a former Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way, provides 32 miles of paved, multi-use path connecting Concord to Pleasanton. This car-free corridor passes through Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, and San Ramon, offering cyclists a safe and scenic route through central Contra Costa County. The flat grade makes it accessible for riders of all abilities, including families with children.

Numerous access points and parking areas along the trail allow for rides of varying lengths. Several bike rental shops in Walnut Creek and Danville cater to visitors without their own equipment. The trail connects to BART stations in Concord and Pleasant Hill, facilitating car-free day trips from other parts of the Bay Area.

Dining Experiences

Culinary Hotspots

Contra Costa County’s dining scene reflects its diverse population and agricultural heritage. Walnut Creek stands as the county’s culinary capital, with Locanda Ravello and Va de Vi offering upscale dining experiences. The city’s restaurant row along Main Street and Locust Street features cuisines ranging from contemporary American to authentic international options.

Lafayette’s vibrant food scene includes the acclaimed Postino, housed in a historic brick building, and Reve Bistro, known for exceptional French cuisine. In Martinez, the county seat, visitors can enjoy waterfront dining at The Dead Fish, offering spectacular views of the Carquinez Strait alongside fresh seafood.

Farm-to-Table Experiences

Eastern Contra Costa County’s agricultural heritage shines through its farm-to-table offerings. Brentwood’s U-pick farms allow visitors to harvest their own cherries, peaches, and apples seasonally. The Farmers’ Market at Todos Santos Plaza in Concord (Thursdays year-round) showcases local produce, artisanal foods, and live music in a community atmosphere.

For wine enthusiasts, the vineyards of Contra Costa County offer tasting experiences without Napa Valley crowds. Hannah Nicole Vineyards in Brentwood and Viano Vineyards in Martinez produce award-winning wines from grapes grown in the county’s Mediterranean climate. Many local wineries host weekend tastings and special events throughout the year.

Shopping Destinations

Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza stands as Contra Costa County’s premier shopping destination, featuring upscale retailers like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Apple in an attractive outdoor setting. The surrounding downtown area complements the mall with boutique shops, art galleries, and specialty stores along pedestrian-friendly streets.

For a different shopping experience, visit the charming downtown districts of Lafayette, Danville, and Orinda, where independent retailers offer unique items in historic settings. Antique enthusiasts should explore Martinez and Antioch, where several shops specialize in vintage treasures and collectibles.

The Sunvalley Shopping Center in Concord provides a more traditional mall experience with over 160 stores, while The Streets of Brentwood offers an open-air shopping environment in eastern Contra Costa County. For local crafts and artisanal products, the county hosts numerous farmers markets and craft fairs throughout the year.

Practical Tips for Visitors

When planning your visit to Contra Costa County, consider these practical tips to enhance your experience:

Seasonal Events Worth Planning Around

Contra Costa County hosts numerous events throughout the year that showcase its diverse communities and cultural heritage:

For performing arts enthusiasts, the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek presents year-round programming including theater, music, and dance. The California Symphony, based in Walnut Creek, performs a regular concert series at the Lesher Center from September through May.

Day Trips from Contra Costa County

Contra Costa County’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the greater Bay Area. San Francisco lies just 20-30 minutes west of Richmond via BART, offering world-class attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Union Square. Oakland’s revitalized downtown, with its thriving restaurant scene and cultural institutions, is even closer.

Wine enthusiasts can reach Napa Valley in under an hour from most parts of the county. For a less crowded wine experience, consider the Livermore Valley Wine Country, just 30 minutes south of Danville. Nature lovers might venture to Point Reyes National Seashore (90 minutes northwest) for dramatic coastal landscapes and wildlife viewing.

For family adventures, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo offers thrill rides and animal attractions about 30 minutes north of Richmond. In the opposite direction, tech enthusiasts can explore Silicon Valley’s Computer History Museum and other tech-focused attractions within an hour’s drive.

Why Contra Costa County Deserves Your Visit

Contra Costa County offers a refreshing alternative to the Bay Area’s more trafficked destinations. Here, you’ll find breathtaking natural landscapes, fascinating historical sites, and vibrant communities without the crowds and high prices of San Francisco or Napa. From the summit of Mount Diablo to the waterways of the Delta, from historic downtowns to modern cultural attractions, the county presents a diverse tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, culinary delights, or simply a peaceful retreat, Contra Costa County delivers with authentic charm and surprising variety. As locals often say, it’s the Bay Area’s best-kept secret—though perhaps not for much longer. Start planning your visit today and experience the unexpected treasures of California’s “opposite coast.”