Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline

Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline in Point Richmond packs several attractions into about 300 acres: a tree-shaded picnic lawn around a saltwater lagoon, a sheltered swimming cove, a fishing pier at a historic ferry terminal, and grassy hills with wide views. It is named for State Senator George Miller Jr. and Assemblyman John T. Knox, a Point Richmond resident. A mile-long path for walking, running, and cycling circles the lagoon, which is home to many waterfowl, and the Ferry Point Loop of the San Francisco Bay Trail encircles the park.

At the north end, Keller Beach, a gift from the City of Richmond, lets visitors wade and swim in the bay; there are no lifeguards, and restrooms and picnic tables are close by. At the south end, the Ferry Point pier is known for starry flounder, perch, sand dab, and striped bass, and an accessible ramp at Ferry Point Beach lets kayakers reach the water. Both are San Francisco Bay Water Trail sites. The hike up the hills rewards clear days with views of Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco skyline, Brooks Island, and the East Bay hills, and steady winds make it a good kite-flying spot.

Dogs must be leashed west of Dornan Drive and are not allowed in the lagoon, and alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park. Reach it by driving south through the tunnel on Garrard Boulevard; the Golden State Model Railroad Museum is across from the entrance.