When I’m asked what my favorite things to do on the Bay are, my mind starts to wander over all sorts of things, some of which may not be appropriate for this site but I’ll share them below for quasi-notoriety and fun. What I think people are asking is, “if you had this boat, what are some fun PG activities you would choose to do on a weekend.”
Oh man! I love this question. First! I’d circumnavigate Angel Island, and I’d hope to reserve a mooring ball for the night. Whether successful of not, I’d land on Angel Island (either on the dock or by skiff) and I’d spend about three hours touring the island by foot, then I’d grab a beer at the bar in Ayala Cove. I’d then head into Richardson’s Bay and do a quick drive by, all the way to Strawberry, of all the sites there (diversity from the water at its finest). Out in the Golden Gate, if weather permitted, I’d anchor in the cove just under Bonita Lighthouse, and maybe even swim to black sand beach and get some 100% coverage sun tan. Back on the boat I’d putt by the San Francisco Water Front, maybe stopping at pier 1.5 for a drink at La Mars. Then I’d head to Clipper Cove for an calm anchorage. If there was time I’d pull into the Jack London Square public dock and grab another drink at Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon.
On day two, I’d head to the Berkeley Circle, and catch a few Leopard Shark during the early morning calms, drink dark coffee, and wake with the sun. Then I’d pull into Marina Bay Yach Harbor and either gently dock in front of Lara’s Fine Dining or ask Steve Orosz permission to use the HM Dock (he probably will say yes if there are no planned moorings). On foot I’d hike to one of the many quaint outdoor food and music experiences that are popping up just outside of Point Richmond. Back on the boat I’d cruise around Brickyard Cove and Richmond Yacht Club, then around Red Rock, and anchor in Anchorage 5 if the currents aren’t too heavy for the boat, and paddle over to one of the Red Rock Beaches, maybe even climb the hill using the sketchy line some climber had left there from 2015.
Depending on time allowances and currents, I’d either break for food around the San Rafael Creek area (Loch Lomond is a good option – too bad Terrapin Crossroads is gone) or I’d head straight for China Camp, where I’d anchor again for the night, catch sunset, and once again fish for Leopard Shark – this time drinking wine.
If I had more time, there is so much more to do! And no, I would not go to Sam’s.
Here is some of that personal go-to activity…
