Bike to Aardvark Beach

Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

Start at Sea Cloud Park, where you can hop on the bike trail at the park’s eastern edge. Follow it to Belmont Slough, then turn left to begin the journey along the paved Bay Trail.

As the slough opens to the bay, enjoy scenic viewpoints along the route, many with picnic tables and access to the water below. Bright fuchsia sour fig flowers and delicate wild radish blossoms add a cheerful pop of spring.

Continue beneath the San Mateo–Hayward Bridge and emerge on the other side to sweeping views of San Francisco. The Bay Trail winds through Mariners Point and Seal Point—excellent stops for birdwatching, with stilts, grebes, egrets, and coots dotting the shoreline.

Pedal past Coyote Point Yacht Harbor and into Coyote Point Recreation Area, where flower-lined paths, a playground, golf course, and the CuriOdyssey science museum make for fun detours. Just before the trail reaches Airport Boulevard, you’ll arrive at your destination: the hidden gem of Aardvark Beach.

This sandy stretch is perfect for a bayside picnic, with stellar views of the city. Kick back, enjoy lunch alongside seabirds, then retrace your route to Sea Cloud Park.

Getting There: Sea Cloud Park is located on Sea Cloud Drive in Foster City: Map. Hours: 7am to 10pm. Leashed dogs welcome along the entire route.

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner