El Cerrito, CA

El Cerrito, CA

Hillside haven with Bay views and community spirit

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Things to know

Discover El Cerrito.

El Cerrito Hills Natural Area

El Cerrito Hills Natural Area

Nature

Explore over 80 acres of preserved open space with miles of hiking and biking trails. The ridge-top paths offer panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais. It's the city's backyard escape for nature lovers.

El Cerrito Plaza & Del Norte BART

El Cerrito Plaza & Del Norte BART

Shopping

The historic Plaza is a community hub anchored by a popular farmers' market and diverse shops. Adjacent to the Del Norte BART station, it's a prime transit-oriented district connecting residents to the entire Bay Area with ease.

San Pablo Avenue's Global Eats

San Pablo Avenue's Global Eats

Food

This central corridor is a culinary tour, featuring fantastic family-run spots. Savor authentic Salvadoran pupusas at Los Moles, hand-pulled noodles at Great Wall, or fresh sushi at Kansai—all without leaving the neighborhood.

things to do

Things to Do in El Cerrito

El Cerrito balances outdoor recreation with local culture. Its hills provide the backdrop for hikes and views, while its commercial corridors offer unique finds and flavors.

Hike the Hillside Trails

Nature

Tackle the trails in the Hillside Natural Area or the Ohlone Greenway. The Madera Open Space offers a quieter, dog-friendly loop with rewarding vistas of the Bay and the city below.

Browse Down Home Music

Culture

Visit this legendary institution, one of the best independent music stores in the Bay Area. Spend hours flipping through an immense collection of new and used vinyl, CDs, and DVDs across every genre imaginable.

Grab a Bite on San Pablo Ave

Food

Embark on a casual international food crawl. Start with dim sum at East Ocean, enjoy a burger at Nations Giant Hamburgers, and cap it off with a scoop from the beloved Fentons Creamery just over the border in Oakland.

Visit the El Cerrito Farmers' Market

Shopping

Join locals every Tuesday at the El Cerrito Plaza for one of the area's best farmers' markets. Stock up on fresh, seasonal produce, artisan breads, flowers, and prepared foods from regional farmers and vendors.

Walk or Bike the Ohlone Greenway

Nature

This paved, multi-use path follows the BART line from El Cerrito to Berkeley. It's a perfect route for a safe, car-free bike ride, jog, or stroll, passing through several neighborhood parks along the way.

Catch a Show at the Cerrito Theater

Culture

Experience a movie at this beautifully restored 1937 art deco theater. They serve food and drinks to your seat, featuring first-run films, classics, and special community events in a unique historic setting.

neighborhoods

Neighborhoods to Explore

El Cerrito's neighborhoods each have a distinct character, from flatlands convenience to secluded hilltop retreats, all united by strong community ties.

Fairmont District

Convenient & Central

Centered around the El Cerrito Plaza BART station, this is the city's most walkable and transit-rich area. It's a mix of apartments, condos, and single-family homes with immediate access to shopping, the library, and the Plaza itself.

Arlington / Castro

Hillside Retreat

Perched in the northern hills, these winding streets offer some of the most spectacular Bay views and larger, custom homes. It's a quiet, residential area with a secluded feel, yet still close to city amenities.

El Cerrito Highlands

Family-Friendly

Located in the central-southern hills, this established neighborhood is known for its excellent public schools, community spirit, and easy access to the Hillside Natural Area trails. Homes range from mid-century to modern.

San Pablo Avenue Corridor

Eclectic & Evolving

More a vibrant strip than a traditional neighborhood, this is the city's main commercial and cultural artery. It's densely packed with diverse restaurants, quirky shops, and apartment buildings, reflecting the city's eclectic mix.

Portola / Moeser

Quiet & Established

A peaceful neighborhood in the northwestern flats, featuring tree-lined streets and a mix of charming older homes. It's close to the popular Arlington Park and has a strong sense of community, with easy freeway access.

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