Alviso Marina County Park image

Alviso Marina County Park

Tourist attraction Park Hiking area Bird watching area Boat ramp Cycling park

One of the Most Reviewed Parks in San Jose


Address

1195 Hope St, Alviso, CA 95002

Website

parks.sccgov.org

Contact

(408) 262-6980

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (3.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: (Easter), 8 AM to 5 PM, Hours might differ
  • Monday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: sunset (33) park (29) walk (29) parking (24) trail (20) trails (18) beautiful (18) salt (16) water (15) nice (14)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 3/5 Max U. 2 years ago on Google
    The spot is really quite cool, but it could do with some additional clarity around the walking paths that go around the ponds. While the park itself is very small it opens into probably 20 miles worth of trails, some of which have fallen into the ponds and some that are under construction. We walked about 4 miles when we realized the final mile of our loop was under repair and not accessible, which was a big bummer. Cool area tho and we got our steps in.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Locale C. 9 months ago on Google
    Update 08.05.2023: Returning to this enchanting sunset spot was a fantastic decision! We were treated to one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever witnessed. While waiting for the sun to set, we enjoyed leisurely walks around the area. The walking trail is well-maintained, and it’s heartwarming to see both bikers and families with strollers enjoying the space. If you plan to catch the sunset, make sure to bring a jacket. The breeze can be quite chilly even during the summer months. But the chilly air is a small price to pay for the mesmerizing sunset views that await. This spot has it all - natural beauty, tranquility, and a touch of adventure. A must-visit for sunset enthusiasts and families alike! ********* Had a quick, but wonderful, first-time visit to this park. The sunset was exceptionally beautiful, and we were delighted by the abundance of beautiful wildflowers. Parking was plentiful, easy, and free, making the experience even better. Can’t wait to come back and explore the trails!
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John Z. 2 years ago on Google
    One of my favorite parks for biking and walking. The parking lot is busy during the weekend when weather is good. There’s a restroom next to the parking lot. As of Jan 8, 2022, the road is blocked at some point (see the red arrow on my photo please) so you are unable to pass it. Planning ahead accordingly.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alicia 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful place to take a scroll and enjoy the scenic views. The trail is mostly flat with no shades. I went on a weekend with nice weather. There was little wind and the park was surprisingly empty. On a good weather day, the salt pond has beautiful refraction and reflection. The water presents a dreamy layer of many shades of red/pink/orange and the still water reflects the mountains like a mirror.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kavita N. 1 year ago on Google
    It was an amazing experience of the bay area with windy weather and beautiful sunset. The walk on the trail is mesmerizing and relaxing. The superb volunteers do guide the people about the closure time of the parking and regular announcements are made. Overall , great time spent with family and nature.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sai Srihitha Reddy T. 8 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful place. You cannot sit or have picnic from what I experienced but you can get some stunning picture. The salt lakes are a sight to behold. You can also have a walk along the trails. It's a nice place to pass some time on a sunny day.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ruchi S. 8 months ago on Google
    More than what i expected 🙂. Salt Pond is mesmerizing. Take a stroll alongside pond which has reddish/ brownish water color. This place is good for stroll, bird watching, Hiking, relax and watching sunset. Sunsets are more popular, you can see many people waiting with their cameras 📷 Definitely will be visiting again 🙂 Please be careful - there is no proper way to go near the pond - paths are narrow, uneven and steep. Be cautious while stepping down or climbing up. Restrooms and Free parking available.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Krishna D. 2 years ago on Google
    I have been to this trail two times, once on foot and once on my bike. The 9 mile out and back loop is pretty scenic and flat throughout. The trail itself is a bit patchy at places and some sections were still under construction. The part where the trail ends is actually quite smelly and the stench is very avoidable especially towards the end of the hike when you are breathing heavily. Other than that, it is not very crowded and parking hasn't been difficult. You can part streetside too right outside the park. Good trail overall.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Negar S. 2 years ago on Google
    Average park good for a light hike in the evening. It’s windy and could give a headache if you’re sensitive but overall it’s pretty nice. We went there on a Friday evening and it wasn’t that crowded when we got there but when it was around sunset it got pretty busy. Recommend this place for a light exercise during the week.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sunita B. 1 year ago on Google
    A great place for sunsets and sunrises. I have been few times now and I have always loved the sunsets from here. The Park closes sometime before sunset but you can still Street park and enter the park (if rushing, been there done that)
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kellybee N. 3 years ago on Google
    Today was such a beautiful day take kids out for some fresh air and the beautiful sunset happens to take our breath away in the fields of amber gold. Kids enjoy the fresh air as the pandemic we are always home. On our way home we catch the train go by... it's nice now as 6pm or 7pm Spring it's still bright out rather than dark... come and take a nice walk on the path-
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neal 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful park with restrooms and pink salt pond. There are benches, educational signs, and things that look like one side of a shed. There is a water fountain and a picnic area near the restrooms. Lots of people were going to the edge of the pond, even though there were signs saying it's prohibited. The park is incredibly scenic and there should be public transit options so more people can access it.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Beverly W. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s very windy here and you will need jacket. It’s dog friendly but will need to have leash on the whole time. The trail is very long. Nice views of mountains on both sides. Parking is easy too. The place is smaller than I expected.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 sumeet s. 2 years ago on Google
    It is a decent place to go for an evening walk, watch the sunset or admire the landscapes. The houses around look really dilapidated but the scenery makes up for it. I recommend coming to this place, specially if you live close by.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Victor-Manuel V. 1 year ago on Google
    Haven't been here in a long time especially never rode all the way for Menlo Park to here on my mountain bike was really excited to ride the trails but unfortunately they're all closed due to construction have no idea what they're doing to the marsh hopefully they're not destroying it they're helping it but I wanted to ride to the end of the trail because that's the closest you can get to the old ghost town that used to be around way back in the 1800s people used to actually think living on the marsh was a good idea until their houses started sinking into the mud anyways used to come here a lot back in the day beautiful views but like I said with the construction right now it's not worth to come here thank you for taking the time to read my short review 😎
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Gerard B. 2 years ago on Google
    The two section parking lot is at a dead end and right on the edge of "the bay" (it's more like marshes and levies in this area of the the bay). Both parking areas are large and the far one is generally used more so for boat launching. There's a well maintained bathroom on site. Off the initial parking lot there is access to trails that snake North all the way to just below the Dumbarton bridge. There's even a ghost town (Drawbridge) you can view from afar if you follow the trail along the railroad tracks
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joseph D. 11 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place for a walk or bike ride. It was so cool walking close to the salt pond and seeing all the crystallized salt on the shore.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Juliet J. 7 months ago on Google
    One of the unique placeS to visit in the Peninsula. You will like the walk along the salt bed. The unique salt crystals glitter when hit by the morning sun rays. The sunset time is also great to see the beauty. It's easy to find using Google map.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harshvardhan S. 2 years ago on Google
    Best place for a calming morning or evening walks. The trail is pretty long and you get lots of spots for leisure photos. Did I mention that you get superb view of the sunrise and sunset here?
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Venkatesh Babu A R. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow! This is my best place yet for Casual walks with your loved ones around sunset time 🤩 really great scenery! Just beautiful 🤩
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 swati d. 2 years ago on Google
    This 20.6 acre bayside park, located along Alviso slough and adjacent to the salt ponds and marshes of Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. We arrived in the morning and went for stroll. There were so many beautiful birds flying over your head. The trail remains lightly crowded- people biking and walking. It’s one of the most peaceful walk around water lands and mountains. We bought sandwiches for breakfast and enjoyed them by the river- wonderful Saturday morning!! Though small in size, the Park offers a great deal of activities within its boundaries and on into the Wildlife Refuge. The pathways and boardwalks of the County Park and trails around the ponds in the adjacent Wildlife Refuge, and the regional trails which include the San Francisco Bay Trail and San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail, offer fantastic views of the mountains surrounding the bay, and of the wildlife that call these ponds home. Hiking, biking and bird watching are favorite activities in both the park and the refuge, while picnicking and strolling along the manicured pathways can be enjoyed within the County Park. Dogs are allowed in the County Park's pathways and picnic areas, but are not allowed on the trails, levees and boardwalks. While bikes are allowed on all pathways and trails in the park, please walk your bikes on the boardwalks.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martin M. 2 years ago on Google
    Spectacular sunset views right by the bay waters and with Mission Peak in the backdrop! As the sun sets, you see different colour bands on the mission peak hills on the background. The foaming waters of the salt ponds have an unpleasant smell, but the wind breeze blowing inwards greatly lessens the odour. There are lots of small birds in the wetlands and their chirps fill the air. The park closes promptly at sunset and a vigilant volunteer reminds you on his megaphone before proceeding to issue citations for cars still parked there after sunset. I recommend parking on the street outside the park gates to avoid the potential for a parking citation.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 MoonRule 1 year ago on Google
    It's so windy and bright which can cause you to have headaches. Please bring water and medications just in case. Also, bring ear plugs if you can because your ears will feel like it's bring stab constantly. When we were on this hike, it was so beautiful until we found out our loop path was under construction. We were so close but yet so far. It hurts so bad to walk all the way back again lol. Go early to enjoy the walk and wear sunscreen.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ahmed N. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice and flat hiking trail over the bay where you can enjoy the nature and watch a lot of birds. The view at the sunset is amazing, but you have to enter the parking before closing hours. Make sure to check the open trails since some trails are closed due to construction work.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ymun 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful place for a stroll. Very relaxing. Flatland with no elevation. Dogs allowed but has to be on leash. A portion of the loop is still under maintenance so allocate enough time to turn back. Can be windy and cold so jacket up!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vincent T. 2 years ago on Google
    Flat walking trail with a lot of wildflowers. The path that I took didn't have a loop back so this is one of those trails where you can choose when to turn back. This walk is great for beginners!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Bast 1 year ago on Google
    My Bay Area friends who lived here more than 10 years haven’t discovered this place. Yet it’s a must go around sunset time. Can’t believe how can this place been missing out if you are around this area. The reflection is more than awesome.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adeline C. 9 months ago on Google
    We had a great time at the Salt ponds. The kids were so excited to see and touch the salt. It's a nice place to just go for a stroll. You would almost forget that you're in the heart of the Silicon Valley. It's very peaceful!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Satheesh C. 6 months ago on Google
    The Park has stunning views during sunset. The trails are flat and easy. Some of the areas were closed. There are free parking at site, but the parking lot is relatively small. You can bike on the trails and are wheel chair friendly.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephanie P. 5 months ago on Google
    Such a beautiful place to walk, run, or bike! The views of the salt ponds get better as you keep going down the path. You’ll see birds and squirrels along the way! They have picnic tables so great place to eat before or after as well!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aishwarya P. 3 years ago on Google
    one of the best trails in south Bay ❗

  • 4/5 Faith S. 3 years ago on Google
    Really nice place to go kayaking. The water was really nice. Alviso is a neat little town. If you enjoy the water or just like taking walks, I recommend checking it out.

  • 5/5 Dovalyn H. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful quite park located at the most southern tip of San Jose, running along sloughs and estuaries. Nice walkable trails, some for walking and some for biking. Dogs are allowed in some areas, please take note of the signs. You can also bring your own kayak and motorized boat as there is a boat launch. On this day there were no rangers present nor were there any type of monetary fees collected. Please keep this park beautiful, it is quite a gem as is the neighborhood.

  • 5/5 Town T. 3 years ago on Google
    Big park and plenty of space. If your worried of going to a crowded place this isnt it.

  • 5/5 shruti c. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s a perfect spot to spend your evening, beautiful sunset perfect colors of sunset and a spot where you can click some really amazing shots .....pre wedding shoots, maternity shoot or weather it’s for modeling I love this rustic place. It’s a hidden gem you must go ....just carry a mosquito repellent as that’s the only drawback after sunset ...for seeing the color pop up wait 10-15 mins after sunset .....m sure you will fall in love with the place and views

  • 5/5 hock y. 6 months ago on Google
    This place looks like an alien land, the reddish colors of the salt ponds and surroundings render it an ethereal feel. You can walk along the shore of the ponds or the trail right next to it. Both afford a very pleasant walk. There is a restroom at the parking lot.

  • 5/5 Stephen M. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to launch a kayak, boat or SUP. Amazing birding especially at low tide. Please respect all rules and stay clear of dock unless you are launching.

  • 5/5 Niraldo M. 9 months ago on Google
    Nice place for a walk or trail. Part of the trail is closed due to construction on the area. Bring water, sunscreen and your sunglasses :)

  • 5/5 Rachelle T. 9 months ago on Google
    Great opportunity to check out the marshland on a pontoon boat. We learned a lot, got to see seals and appreciate nature. The guides are great, it was a fun experience.

  • 5/5 Subhankar D. 9 months ago on Google
    Nice small park with awesome views of the bay for an afternoon stroll. Leftmost trail through the double doors will take to the red salt pond a MUST see ! On a clear day you can see the Dumbarton bridge. It also has a boat launching area. Lots of parking and not very crowded. With the huge doors to nowhere, it’s a good photo opportunity and great place to watch sunset !

  • 5/5 Aditya V. 11 months ago on Google
    Nice park. Good hikes, great views. One of the great sunset points in bay area.

  • 5/5 Matthew G. 11 months ago on Google
    A nice park with ample parking and restrooms. I believe there is a boat launch as well. Trails stick out into the wetland grass and bay providing lovely vistas of the bay and surrounding hills. You can view birbs, construction equipment as well as the red waters of the evaporation ponds.

  • 3/5 Shruti K. 2 years ago on Google
    Small but scenic place for hiking, spending time in nature and watching the sunset. Avoid visiting on a rainy day.

  • 5/5 AJJ 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely place to visit at evening. I went at around 6 ish when it was cloudy and it looked absolutely gorgeous. The lake was clean (saw some white lather along the sides) and it felt very calm. A short hike around the lake is a good option for evening walk. Less crowded as well.

  • 5/5 Home 3 years ago on Google
    Nice trail.

  • 3/5 Imran A. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place for biking and a leisure walk. The path is not paved though, made up of gravels and loose dirt. Sometimes there's also a slight odor in the air due to reclaimed water but it does not bother much.

  • 5/5 Nikhil K. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome peaceful place

  • 5/5 Humberto R. 3 years ago on Google
    I loved it! I went for a run for the first time there and it didn't disappoint. The dirt roads are a great alternative to pave roads. Less impact on your knees. The views of the water and mountains inspire you to enjoy the scenery and run and the freshness of the ocean's breeze keeps you cool while running. There were some people, but the further in I went, the less people I saw. I also didn't find it difficult to find parking, but I think I just got lucky that day. It seems this park gets busy. There are public restrooms. The park is open from sunrise to sunset. One last thing: when you're here, walking, running, or meditating, it really feels that you are in a different world. ??

  • 5/5 irene d m. 3 years ago on Google
    Accidentally came across this spot. Legit lil chill spot to catch the sunset ? ???

  • 4/5 Super Sweet J. 3 years ago on Google
    We went to the park around 10am on a Sunday. The 1st parking lot already full but the 2nd parking lot had a lot space left, parking should not be a problem. I saw several people came here to bike. Some came to kayak. My family and I came to hike, walk around the pond. It’s really hot, so dress appropriately and bring a lot of water. With kids, it took us about two hours to complete the loop. There were a lot of birds to watch. The pond itself was interesting as the water had brown red color in some areas. Overall the park is good for hiking and biking. But it’s really hot with no shade at all, so only four stars from me.

  • 5/5 Flavio T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to ride a bike!

  • 5/5 Kara C. 3 years ago on Google
    Love to have a walk here.

  • 5/5 Leigh K. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely walk

  • 4/5 Geo S. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice open space with long flat trails. View of the bay and surrounding area.

  • 5/5 Sal C. 3 years ago on Google
    9 miles of slight gradients and lots of ? ? and stingray watching

  • 5/5 Alvaro B. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It's a nice place I loved it (Original) Es un bonito lugar me encanto

  • 5/5 Sri R. 3 years ago on Google
    Always fun to visit and watch the sunsets.

  • 5/5 Xiaotong L. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful park with salt pond and wild view. Good for a short walk. No dogs are allowed and parking is free.

  • 4/5 Alex M. 3 years ago on Google
    Wanna feel like you're in the middle of the Silicon Valley but be completely by yourself. Follow the path that surrounds the salt marsh to the northern most point. You will be exactly between Google/Mofett Field & the Tesla Factory right there on the bay.

  • 4/5 Joshua R. 3 years ago on Google
    Easy in and out with no fees and ample parking. Friendly boaters help a noobie out. Water is pretty calm and deep. Only complaint is that the end of the channel is obstructed, according to nautical chart, so no Bay access, at least for drafts >1ft.

  • 5/5 Alex G. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice relaxing hiking and biking around the salt ponds. Lots of nature to observe. Good bathroom facility.

  • 5/5 Prachi D. 3 years ago on Google
    Alviso park has some mesmerising scenic beauty. It has trails to walk on and also for riding bicycle. It has small section of ocean water which makes the view more beautiful. Do visit and enjoy the beauty. Remember to maintain social distancing and stay safe.

  • 5/5 g a. 3 years ago on Google
    Always a good rating here! I grew up in milpitas and would come to this marina with my dad. He would do carpenter work at the Alviso Yacht Club that used to be there. When my father was a teenager, he would be able to catch smelt there in the river. The marina used to be full of boats and regularly had boats of all sizes including a few real yachts. Today it has changed so much.

  • 4/5 John P. 3 years ago on Google
    I always loved walking around here at dusk. I happened to catch a beautiful sunset, but the park attendant said they give tickets if you walk in the after the vehicle gate is closed now. Not sure if it was just due to covid-19 or what.

  • 5/5 Swethaa R. 3 years ago on Google
    Ideal spot for sunset walk. Loved the trail around the bay and the well paved piers. Spotted a lot of professional photographers doing wedding and baby shower photo shoots.

  • 3/5 Kenia N. 3 years ago on Google
    I recommend to those people that like to walk or also bike riding it's a nice place to watch the sunset

  • 5/5 Gautam C. 3 years ago on Google
    Pretty pretty place , must visit , carry your own water and snacks ( you can plan a picnic here )

  • 5/5 Sal D. 3 years ago on Google
    I get tacos from Tacos Del Oro then park here and eat em. Nice views

  • 5/5 Jose M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place for an early morning bike ride.

  • 4/5 Kymberly S. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice easy walk, open space, great place to catch sunsets or take pictures.

  • 5/5 Aleks L. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome park and a nice long hike!

  • 4/5 John K. 3 years ago on Google
    Santa Clara is really putting Aviso into a tourist attraction;with hints of Old Southbay and modern upgrades. Im definitely returning for a whats New in Aviso'

  • 5/5 C L. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to walk and bike

  • 5/5 Arcelia A. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful !!!!

  • 5/5 Davin P. 3 years ago on Google
    Paddled 10miles. The alviso slough goes all the way out to the bay! Day use and parking are free!

  • 5/5 Kathleen J. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful sunsets, breezes, historic.

  • 5/5 Sarah M. 3 years ago on Google
    This is my favorite place to go and just be. It is so peaceful and so much walking space.

  • 3/5 Chaitanya B. 3 years ago on Google
    Decent hike. Flat terrain. No foliage so pretty much out in the open. Today it was sunny so a hike from 9am to 2pm was entirely under the sun. Not much wildlife apart from the odd cranes/seagulls [not sure exactly]. Easily accessible hike via car.

  • 5/5 Carol G. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to take a walk in nature. There is no shade, but the ocean breeze keeps it cool.

  • 5/5 C W. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and clean! Gorgeous sunset, many of the paths are dog friendly which is amazing

  • 5/5 cin n. 3 years ago on Google
    Bunch of parking space during quarantine

  • 5/5 Jose B. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this place. Great time to relax and chill.

  • 3/5 Andrew S. 3 years ago on Google
    Rude rangers scare people away at sundown.

  • 5/5 Dileep K. 3 years ago on Google
    Good walk

  • 4/5 Lisa M. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice place, easy access to launch the kayak. Quite windy though.

  • 5/5 Chandra M. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place for biking. Not much shade though

  • 5/5 Karthik N. 3 years ago on Google
    So many birds, huge place

  • 4/5 Sveta L. 3 years ago on Google
    For the ones looking for a calm and peaceful place


Call (408) 262-6980 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Activities
    • ✓️ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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