Bike to the Brews and Views

Alamedans like to joke that they enjoy “island living.” Things are a bit slower and a bit more chill at this island city on San Francisco Bay. And the craft beer and spirits boom has a firm foothold in its utterly cool industrial westside. Sure, you can easily drive to this spot and enjoy beers from Faction or Almanac. But to really get into the island swing of things, ride your bike! From Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach you can cycle mostly quiet streets.

There’s a large parking area at the beach. From there, pedal west along the shoreline, passing pocket beaches and condos with killer views. Continue toward Alameda Point (watch for Bay Trail signs as the route briefly leaves the shoreline), and you’ll arrive at a standout sight: the USS Hornet, a massive aircraft carrier that served in WWII and recovered the Apollo 11 astronauts. Today it’s a museum open to visitors.

Continue pedaling to the industrial area, home to historic hangars and plenty of options for food and drinks. Hangar 1 Vodka is here, an Alameda staple and awesome spectacle, true to the naval hub history of the city, with plenty of aviation details and a great patio.

Beer enthusiasts should ride straight to Faction Brewing. The reinvented airplane hangar turned craft brewery has been creating some of California’s best IPAs and pale ales since 2013. And the massive patio’s view is just as impressive as its beer list: unobstructed vistas out to San Francisco and the Bay Bridge. Enjoy a fresh pint and food from whatever food truck is on site (calendar of food trucks). Tip: Bring a jacket because the bay breeze can really kick up here.

Just down the street is Almanac Beer Co, with, you guessed it, tasty IPAs! And actually a lot more. They pride themselves on “farm to barrel” brewing to make sustainably sourced beers. Their outdoor seating is more wind protected than Faction’s, and also has great food trucks on site. Return the way you came. You’re on a roll!

NOTE: If you plan to wade into water, please check Swim Beach Conditions first.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In the episode, Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss their bike ride in Alameda and visiting breweries and the USS Hornet.

Directions: From Robert Crown Memorial State Beach (map), cycle west on the shoreline bike path, passing parks and condos. As the shoreline path ends at Central Ave., continue inland, following the Bay Trail route: cross Central and head along neighborhood streets via Fifth St. and the car-free Santa Clara Ave. Turn left on Lincoln Ave. and cross Central Ave. again, where you’ll rejoin the Bay Trail toward Encinal Boat Ramp. Follow the path past the boat ramp and continue west into Alameda Point. The route brings you to the USS Hornet. Continue along Ferry Point Rd. for about a mile to reach Almanac Beer Co. To visit Faction Brewing, turn left on W. Tower Ave., then right on Monarch St.