Lake Anza, Tilden Park, Berkeley

Lake Anza is a pleasant spot to let your kids play in the sand after visiting the other attractions in Tilden Park. You can take in the serene green waters of the lake and the beautiful forests beyond. The coarse brownish sand is nice for building sand castles. From May 31 to mid-September there is an entrance fee and lifeguards on duty. Swimming is possible if you're willing to risk getting swimmer's itch from the bacteria levels. There is a snack bar with colorful umbrellas above the lake (but without a view), restrooms and changing rooms. You will feel rejuvenated by nature after resting here on the beach.

There is also a large lawn near the parking area where you can picnic and walk around the lake without paying an entrance fee.
Make sure you see the even nicer parts of Tilden Park: the carousel, the animals enjoying the fresh air and forest at Little Farm, and the stunning botanic garden. There are also steam train rides through the redwoods.
After, head over to Solano Avenue in Berkeley for a delicious sandwich!

Directions

From May 31 to September 14 (and Sept 20 & 21) there are entrance fees and lifeguards from 11am-6pm. Cost is $3.50 for adults aged 16 and up, and $2.50 for seniors and kids 1-15 years old.
Lake Anza is within Tilden Park, a huge nature area that you must drive around to get places. Once in the park, there are signs everywhere so it's easy to find the lake.
From Highway 24, exit at Fish Ranch Rd and head north on Fish Ranch Rd. Turn right on Grizzly Peak Blvd. After 3 miles, turn right on Golf Course Rd. After one mile, turn right on Shasta Road. Turn left on Wildcat Canyon Rd. Once in Tilden Park, follow the signs to Lake Anza. You will turn right on Lake Anza Rd. There is a huge parking lot.

Click on map for interactive view