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    Alviso Marina County Park

    4.4 (238 reviews)

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    scenic mountain view in the background of pink salt marsh
    Annie G.

    This park is beautiful! I love the mountain ridge in the backyard, the pink salt ponds (pink at least in December though I'm pretty sure they last a while), the variety of birds wandering around, the tall marsh grasses, and wooden boardwalk. It's so scenic and enjoyable. Sometimes big bunches of white and grey birds (seagulls or gulls of some sort) will sit out on the water and then suddenly soar up in the sky at genuinely a count of more than 100 which you can see in one of the pics. You'll also see cranes, squirrels, much smaller birds with a yellow belly, and other birds (possibly sparrows). My parents visiting from out of state loved the walk and took some time to read the informational signs. The temperatures are really enjoyable in the morning in the winter, though I've been here multiple times throughout the year and it's always temperate conditions. It would be really nice to have a circular route, but it makes sense that we can't cut through the salt ponds. It's sad to see at the farther end of the route all the trash people have littered -- it's likely volunteers are cleaning it up and gathering it into the bunches that we saw, but omg why?? Why is anyone littering here? People also like to go down right next to the pink water for aesthetic pics despite signs saying not to -- they've barred it off better now but please don't go down regardless! Nesting birds can make their home there and it damages the environment for all the animals who need it. Most people are otherwise quiet and respectful here though and overall it's a beautiful atmosphere. Usually the only louder source of noise is an occasional train passing by. Free parking too

    Steph W.

    Alviso Marina Park has free parking and restrooms, and the area is open from 8 a.m. until sunset. A lot of people mention the nearby salt pond that sometimes turns a bright red color, but we couldn't see that in November. The wide-open space makes it a great place for photos or an easy, relaxing walk with friends or family. It's peaceful, scenic, and a really nice spot to just slow down and enjoy the views. Overall, it's a simple, chill park to visit if you're looking for fresh air and pretty scenery without the crowds. Well it wasn't crowded while we were there, but I can imagine this place being crowded depending on when you go.

    Isaiah G.

    I was in the area decided to go on a walk. Parking is free so I loved that. The parking is small so you may have to park on the street. I really like that there was bathrooms as soon as you talk in. There was some tables and benches as well. There walk way everywhere you go it is dirt not paved. You can also ride your bike. You can get a pretty good walk or run here. One thing I did not like is there's absolutely no shade so make sure you take a hat. Overall nice relaxing walk.

    Arsha T.

    This is one of my favorite spots. It's unique, and a good place for bird-watching sometimes. There's a stream & a salt pond (which is pink in color). In summer, it is pretty dry. Other times, you can see the pink lake. Also, you can't get down to the lake during summer. They have information on boards as well. The bathrooms are pretty clean. The greenery & walk gives village vibes. There are some pretty photogenic spots. The only downside is the smell coming from the pond - it can be pretty strong even for walks.

    Megan Y.

    Definitely a unique spot in the South Bay to disconnect! The trails here go on for miles and miles, most of which are wide enough to accommodate both bikers and pedestrians. In the wintertime it's a little hit or miss, especially in the rainy seasons. Id avoid coming right after a storm since most of the trails are dirt and get very slippery/muddy when wet. There is no shade on the trails, but you get unobstructed views of most of the South Bay on a clear day which is really something! I wouldn't say the immediate foreground is particularly breathtaking, at least not when I went this past weekend, but I'm so glad we have a sanctuary for our wildlife so close to home. Parking was not an issue as there are tons of spots in the lot.

    Sergio A.

    Mostly dog friendly location in Santa Clara. There are a few decks that dogs are not allowed but it's like 1% of the whole thing. The views are jaw dropping! You can see the mountains in the background. Very clean and well maintained. I love seeing the wildlife. I've seen so many different bird species, plants species and I've even seen a seal once. Super special place indeed.

    Crane
    Melinda K.

    This became a tourist attraction for visitors and local influencers due to the red algae in the water that turned the salt pond pink. I enjoyed the scenery of the marsh, where the platform trail is easy to walk, but it gets muddy when you walk on the dirt path. Do not wear your nice, clean shoes if you are not willing to give up. The restrooms have an outdoor boot scraper brush to use after completing the trail. This is a nice place to take photographs during sunset. Expect to be crowded on weekends on sunny days because parking will be full.

    2 herons
    Ying L.

    Fantastic event on the bay, clear weather. The event was very successful with shuttle buses, multi cultural events, pumpkins for the kids, resource booths, and best of all there were free medical care for everyone. My best event is going on the boat and learning all about the slough. Great trip n saw lots of herons, egrets n even a hawk. Hope to go again next year.

    Saydee B.

    What a lovely place for a stroll! There is currently a restoration project underway at this park, and I am so happy to see a community wanting to maintain their habitats. Even though the park lot was full; it was still quiet and everyone was able to enjoy themselves. 10/10 wonderful park.

    Siobhan D.

    My sister came to visit me in San Jose and asked "Can we see a sunset somewhere?" Yelp lead me to Alviso Marina and boy did it deliver! Free parking, no cost to explore. The restrooms were clean. Bring a picnic or some snacks and follow the path to a bench where you can catch the sunset over the Bay, or wander along the salty shoreline and challenge your balance on the rocks. I've come here twice and both times were beautiful sunsets. I believe the park closes at 8:00, so you won't get to stay for a full setting of the sun, but you'll get a nice view. Wear solid shoes like gym shoes, not flats or flip flops, as you'll need to have some support if you are going to walk along the shoreline.

    Jason D.

    It's a very unique and unusual place. The water drys up leaving salt making it look like a plain of snow. Has a very nice flat walking path. I would recommend going.

    Park sign
    Mitchell K.

    Nice peaceful place on the trail system but air traffic is fairly low from the San Jose airport so it will interrupt the calming vibe of birds & insects. You'll find flat walking/cycling trails that connect to a bigger trail system. There will be small wildlife, reptiles, and birds. Fishing is not allowed from the bank... you'll have to bring a boat for that. Duck hunting is allowed in the designated areas but the those areas are far from the trails and only accessible by boat. There are two boat ramps and one of the docks has been sinking for a year and is currently unusable. You can take the channel to SF Bay but it's quiet a distance if you're paddling. There are maybe 60 total parking spots for cars and boat trailer vehicles get about 7 more long spaces. There is informational signage and a memorial for the Jenny Lind steamboat disaster as it launched from Alviso to carry people & cargo toSan Frandisco and farther. Parking is free with you Santa Clara county park pass. There is a public restroom near the parking lot but it gets messy if a lot if people are visiting. One other thing... I have been it's smelly, probably fue to the marsh & low tides at certain tomes of year but it's not often. It would be five stars if the dock had not been in disrepair for so long and the bathrooms should get cleaned more often.

    Juliet T.

    Such a scenic area and 'hidden' gem in the South Bay!! It wasn't packed and the walk was easy going. Not sure where the route leads, but the view is pretty the further you go. It's VERY windy at the beginning/entrance from the par, but it'll be less windy once you keep walking on the route (from my experience at least!). The route here is definitely unassuming until you actually get to the park and see the pink water. Parking was partially full on a Sunday evening, but there were some spots available, and lots of street parking around!

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    9 months ago

    Nice place, seems like another world. Good view.. feels like you're in Iceland or something

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    Alviso Marina County Park Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Alviso Marina County Park

    Is the water pink all year round? Or is a certain time to go?

    All year round due to the salt mines that were historically around the area!

    Is this a good place for bike ride for kids? Thanks!

    Yes, but the trails are currently (Mar 2024) closes for restoration work.

    Which part of the trail are dogs allowed?

    Dogs are allowed in the County Park's pathways and picnic areas, but are not allowed on the trails, levees and boardwalks.… 

    Can you go fishing there?

    Fishing from boats allowed. No shore fishing.

    Is the park still open with all of the Covid19 happenings? Are there any areas that are closed off?

    It's open and closes at sunset. Be aware that you must leave the park at 8:25PM or else you will get fined.

    Does anyone know or remember if there is good signal for phones here? Thanks!

    Yes the signal is decent in most areas of the trail. Have played Pokémon there in the past and had no problems whatsoever. Hope this helps. Enjoy the trail, it's awesome.

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    Review Highlights - Alviso Marina County Park

    The information boards did a great job introducing the salt pond historically and environmentally.

    Mentioned in 15 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    Muwekma Park

    Muwekma Park

    4.4(14 reviews)
    3.1 mi

    I wanted to like Muwékma Park in Sunnyvale, but I wouldn't recommend it--especially for families…read morewith younger kids or those needing extra safety considerations. While it has some inclusive features, many structures don't feel designed with littles or kids with disabilities in mind. There are open stairs and gaps with no barriers, which made it stressful as my son kept running toward unsafe areas. We liked the climbing section with the big slide, but access wasn't very accessible and things got chaotic with kids not taking turns. The open field is nice for activities like kite flying, but again, no barriers meant constant redirection. Also worth noting: the dog park is right next to the baby swings and restrooms, and parking is very limited and easy to miss. Overall, some nice features, but the lack of safety made it more stressful than enjoyable for us.

    This park is convenient to where I live. There are separate off leash areas for small and large…read moredogs. That area isn't pleasant in the afternoon because there is pretty much no shade. It is decent in rain, as it is gravel, but grass. The dog park area is about a 3 star area. The rest of the park is better. It has a very large green field in the center, ringed with a walking trail, picnic areas, and play areas. There is water and bathroom facilities. The parking area is a bit in the small side. If you play Ingress, there are a number of portals here.

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    Muwekma Park - Large field

    Large field

    Muwekma Park
    Muwekma Park

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    Hidden Lake Park

    Hidden Lake Park

    3.9(70 reviews)
    4.2 mi

    Not huge, but it's a great stop, especially when you're biking in the morning hours when the sun…read moreisn't too hot in Milpitas, CA. There aren't many cars on the roads between 10am-12noon, so it's a breeze riding a bike around and resting for a hydration stop here. Tiny public parking lot onsite off Milpitas Blvd. Hidden Lake neighborhood have peaceful homes and nice walking paths to get a glimpse of the small lake sometimes filled with ducks. You can easily walk up and down stairways or bike around the neighborhood area near the homes. Yes, there are picnic tables and families do stop to enjoy small gatherings. Hidden Lake Park is not far from retailers/restaurants/grocery stores/fast foods/etc. Convenient. Not many visitors on weekdays. It's always clean when I stop by seasonally for a morning biking routine. The clouds look great outside today, so it wasn't too hot under the sunshine. Overall, good place to chill before continuing onto Milpitas Blvd. where there's bike friendly streets now. Easy to follow the paths and navigate around town.

    ***the lake itself is part of a community called HIDDEN LAKE as well***…read more OVERALL: Meh. Wouldn't go out of my way to drive here to walk; therefore the 4 stars rating. Due to being part of a community, there are a ton of guest parking (especially near the gates to this park) BUT if you keep driving, the parking lot for this "park" is on the outside (you turn in with the sign "HIDDEN PARK LAKE" in green lettering/tanish brown background and there are a few spots for you to pick from). Two stairways up to other flat cement ground trails. Very quarry lake vibes but not much water. Lake itself is a smaller circular flat cement ground leveled trail. Regarding up the stairs: One way does end up at another park whereas the other way just ends up in another neighborhood/main road. Lack of shade. Lots of ducks. There's few places to sit. Few trash bins. No visible toilets.

    Photos
    Hidden Lake Park - Picnic time!

    Picnic time!

    Hidden Lake Park - Do you think they'll get mad if I bring my plant clipping shears next time I visit?

    Do you think they'll get mad if I bring my plant clipping shears next time I visit?

    Hidden Lake Park

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    Ulistac Natural Area - Stanford Manzanita

    Ulistac Natural Area

    4.4(73 reviews)
    2.2 miNorth San Jose

    Lovely trail but no shaded areas. Parking at the street or at the parking lot of Lick Mill Park…read more Easy trail to explore and enjoy the wild flowers. Not too busy during weekday evening.

    This is not a park, but it's right next to Lick Mill Park if you're looking for certain amenities…read moreor features not offered here. We visited both, this past weekend, and had a wonderful time. Ulistac Natural Area is a great lil spot for running along the trails, bird watching, and observing nature. It's not exactly the season for seeing birds around, or trees and flowers in bloom, as winter is far from over, but on this warm Sunday afternoon, we still found the whole place to be beautiful. We strolled along the different pathways, read the educational boards, learned about the surrounding vegetation, and shared interesting conversation as we passed by birdhouses in trees and plants with funny names. We saw some California coffeeberry, sticky monkeyflower, California buckwheat, California Wildrose (just the thorns for now), and the only color during the winter season coming from the bright pink island mallow flowers (which bloom in late winter) and red toyon berries (lots of this to be seen here). We also saw random mushrooms and lots of sage among the plants and wildlife. My favorite part was spotting the rabbits in the sage, and watching these adorable long-eared cottontails run around (we saw at least 3-4 of them). It's a small nature preserve, but still plenty to see and appreciate, even in the winter. And for runners, it connects to other trails so there's no shortage of space for getting active around here.

    Photos
    Ulistac Natural Area - Oak acorns

    Oak acorns

    Ulistac Natural Area - Winter

    Winter

    Ulistac Natural Area - Autumn flowers

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    Autumn flowers

    Redwood Place Playground - Very cool climbing structures

    Redwood Place Playground

    4.8(4 reviews)
    3.1 mi

    Is this not Muwekma Park?? Whether you consider this Muwekma Park or Redwood Place Playground, this…read morepark is freaking amazing. Since we were in need of finding a little bit of entertainment for our 6 year old prior to dinner, this spot couldn't have been more perfect. The area is extremely spacious, even offering a track where a lot of people were seen taking a stroll. The play structure is clean and obviously well taken care of. There is plenty of sunshine with just the right amount of shade scattered throughout the space. With some further exploring I noticed a few grills, benches, and beautifully made ping pong tables. There were kids of all ages who came to enjoy during out 45 minute visit and everyone was so very friendly. My daughter quickly made friends with 3 other kids and it was tough tearing her away from the park when that time came. 5/5 stars. I'd happily come back and visit again. This spot is highly recommended.

    We went yesterday and had such a great time! The play structure is clean, well-maintained, and has…read moreplenty of shade, which made it really comfortable even during the day. The park offers a nice variety, so there's something for kids of all ages to enjoy. My son ended up making a friend and they played together for over an hour, which says a lot about how engaging the space is. I really appreciated that there are separate areas for younger and older kids, and the climbing structures feel very thoughtfully designed with safety in mind--no large open gaps or risky sections. The location is also a plus--it's tucked away in a corner, which makes it feel like a bit of a hidden gem in Sunnyvale. We'll definitely be back!

    Photos
    Redwood Place Playground
    Redwood Place Playground
    Redwood Place Playground

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    Alviso Marina County Park - parks - Updated August 2026

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