Bayfront Park

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Description

Tucked just along the edge of San Francisco Bay, Bayfront Park in Millbrae, California, offers a surprisingly peaceful retreat only minutes away from one of the world’s busiest airports. Despite its smaller size, this bayside park has earned a special place in my routine whenever I visit the area. Imagine standing on the shoreline watching planes touch down with the blue waters shimmering beneath – it’s one of those unique local experiences you wouldn’t want to miss. The park sits right along Old Bayshore Highway, extremely close to the SFO terminals, making it a convenient stop for both travelers waiting for a flight and local residents looking for a breath of fresh air. It’s amazing how much beauty is packed into this small slice of bayside land.

Bayfront Park isn’t your typical urban green space. Here, you won’t find crowded playgrounds or bustling sports fields. Instead, you can follow a gently winding walking trail that hugs the bay. You’re treated to unobstructed views of the water, the distant Peninsula hills, and – most memorably – the constant, mesmerizing choreography of airplanes gliding overhead. The park attracts a variety of visitors: joggers and families with strollers, plane spotters with binoculars, photographers keen on capturing SFO’s frenetic activity, and occasional travelers stretching their legs between flights. There’s a refreshing mix of solitude and subtle excitement here, a welcome change of pace compared to the usual tourist spots.

Key Features

• Bayside Walking Trail: The paved pathway loops through the park, ideal for easy walks, jogging, or a leisurely bike ride. You get uninterrupted views of the water and the skyline.
• Benches with Scenic Views: Several strategically placed benches allow you to soak in the sight of arriving and departing planes. These seats double as perfect picnic spots and are especially popular with families and aviation fans.
• Outstanding Plane Spotting: Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or a casual visitor, the close proximity to SFO means you’ll witness aircraft taking off and landing almost nonstop. There are few places in the Bay Area with such a clear vantage point.
• Accessibility: The entrance and parking lot are both wheelchair accessible. Paths through the park are flat, smooth, and easy to navigate for anyone using a stroller or mobility device.
• Dog-Friendly: Leashed dogs are warmly welcomed at Bayfront Park, and you’ll see plenty of locals enjoying a stroll with their furry companions.
• Good for Kids: The gentle walking paths and open space make it a fantastic spot for families to introduce little ones to hiking close to the city, with the added bonus of plane watching as built-in entertainment.
• Serene Bay Views: If you walk the perimeter, you’ll spot small waterfowl, tidal pools, and tidal marsh grasses at the edges, providing great photo ops, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Rest Stop for Travelers: Since it’s located minutes from the airport, Bayfront Park is perfect for those with a layover or a little extra time before or after a flight.

Best Time to Visit

While Bayfront Park is open year-round, you’ll find each season adds its own flavor. I personally prefer visiting in the late afternoon, right before dusk. The golden-hour light dances on the bay’s surface, and the rush of flights into SFO increases. Early mornings are equally gorgeous – it’s quieter, and you’re more likely to encounter regulars out for their morning jogs or dog walks.

Spring and fall bring cool, clear air and fewer crowds. In summer, the breeze off the water keeps things comfortable even on warmer days (though you might want a light jacket handy for the occasional gust). Winter can be cool and foggy, but the moody bay atmosphere adds an entirely different charm. Sunrise and sunset are absolutely worth timing your visit for, whether for photography or simply a moment of calm.

One note: because the park is exposed, bring a hat or sunglasses for mid-day visits, and check the local weather before you head out – the wind can pick up.

How to Get There

Getting to Bayfront Park couldn’t be easier, which is a big part of its appeal. The park is located at 2-198;1-99 Old Bayshore Hwy, Millbrae, CA 94030. If you’re traveling by car, simply exit at Millbrae Avenue from US-101 and follow the signs toward the water. There’s a conveniently sized parking lot near the entrance. Parking is free, and I’ve always managed to find a spot, though weekends can be a bit busier. If you’re headed here from SFO, you’re barely a five-minute drive away; it makes for a fantastic detour either before heading into the city or after dropping off a rental car.

Prefer public transportation? The Millbrae BART/Caltrain station is within two miles. While it’s technically walkable, you’ll want to use a rideshare app or taxi for a more direct route, especially with luggage or kids in tow. For those cycling the Bay Trail, there’s a direct path from the park connecting to several miles of dedicated bike lanes along the waterfront.

Be aware that Old Bayshore Hwy can be a bit tricky to navigate for first-timers due to airport traffic – just follow the signage, and you’ll soon find yourself at the park’s entrance.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring Binoculars or a Camera: If you love watching airplanes up close, bring something for a better view. The variety of airlines and aircraft types is impressive. For photographers, zoom lenses capture amazing plane silhouettes against the bay backdrop.
• Pack a Snack or Picnic: There aren’t food vendors at the park, but packing a simple lunch or some snacks turns an ordinary visit into a mini-bayfront picnic. Local markets in Millbrae are only a short drive away.
• Wear Layers: Bayfront Park is famously breezy thanks to its open location by the water. Even on a sunny day, the wind can pick up, so plan accordingly. A windbreaker or hoodie has saved me more than once.
• Leash Up Your Dog: Dogs are welcome but must remain on-leash. There’s ample space for even larger breeds to stretch their legs, and the path is perfect for walks.
• Respect the Wildlife: Look for small wading birds and occasionally a curious rabbit in the grass. Avoid feeding wildlife or disturbing habitats along the shore.
• Restrooms: There are basic restroom facilities near the parking lot, but I’d suggest using them early in your visit, as maintenance is sporadic during less busy times.
• Plan Ahead if Passing Through: If your visit is timed around airport arrivals or departures, allow a bit of extra time as local traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours.
• Kid-Friendly Exploration: For families, Bayfront Park is ideal for introducing younger children to hiking trails and outdoor exploration without a major time commitment. The planes provide endless entertainment, and it’s flat enough for strollers and scooters.
• Stay Safe After Dark: While the park feels safe during the day, it gets quiet at night. Daytime or early evening visits feel most comfortable for most travelers.

After several visits over the years, Bayfront Park continues to charm me with its unlikely combination of tranquility and movement. Whether you come for a peaceful walk, a chance to spot planes, or simply to soak in a lesser-known stretch of the San Francisco Bay shoreline, it delivers an experience that is both memorable and relaxing – conveniently located right at the water’s edge, next to the general hustle of the airport. This small park proves that sometimes the most unexpected places can offer the most satisfying travel moments.