Why Berkeley, California Should Be Your Next Vacation Spot
Hidden Gems, Iconic Culture & Bay Area Charm
If you’re dreaming of a California getaway that blends natural beauty, eclectic culture, world-class food, and intellectual vibes—Berkeley is calling your name. Often overshadowed by its big-city neighbors San Francisco and Oakland, Berkeley is a vibrant, walkable city with its own rich story, and it’s the perfect place for a laid-back but deeply enriching vacation.
What Makes Berkeley a Must-Visit Destination?
1. A Walk Through History at UC Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley isn’t just one of the world’s top universities—it’s also a hub of free speech history, gorgeous architecture, and campus energy. Take a stroll through Sather Gate, climb the Campanile (Sather Tower) for sweeping Bay views, or visit one of the many museums and galleries open to the public.
2. Gourmet Ghetto: Where California Cuisine Was Born
Berkeley is a foodie haven, thanks to its roots in the farm-to-table movement. The Gourmet Ghetto—home to the original Chez Panisse—offers a collection of must-try cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that put quality, sustainability, and flavor first.
Don’t miss:
- Cheeseboard Pizza Collective: Creative vegetarian pizzas, made daily with love (and live jazz on select days).
- Gregoire: French-Californian comfort food in a takeout box.
- Saul’s Deli: A modern Jewish deli with classic bagels and pastrami.
3. Outdoor Adventures Without Leaving Town
Berkeley is surrounded by green hills, redwood groves, and scenic trails. Whether you’re hiking Tilden Park, strolling the Berkeley Marina, or taking in panoramic views at Grizzly Peak, this city brings you close to nature—without the crowds.
4. Arts, Culture & Indie Everything
From the Berkeley Repertory Theatre to indie cinemas like Rialto Elmwood, the local arts scene is thriving. Music venues, poetry readings, and art fairs are part of the city’s everyday rhythm.
5. A Laid-Back, Local Vibe
Berkeley blends small-town charm with big-city access. You’ll find friendly neighborhoods, leafy streets, and locally owned shops—and thanks to BART, you’re just 25 minutes from San Francisco if you want a city fix.
Where to Stay in Berkeley
Skip the standard hotel chain and go for a furnished vacation rental in North Berkeley, Elmwood, or near the campus. You’ll get better value, local charm, and home-like comfort—perfect for longer stays, family trips, or remote work setups.
Look for amenities like:
- Fast Wi-Fi for digital nomads or workcations
- Walkable access to cafes, parks, and BART
- Fully equipped kitchens and laundry
- Self check-in and extended stay options
(Tip: Properties in North Berkeley offer peaceful, picturesque surroundings just minutes from downtown. link to Sacromento listings. Staying in downtowns will put you within walking to BART and the University).
Secret Eats in Berkeley and Surrounding Cities
Local Favorites, Hidden Gems & Off-the-Radar Deliciousness in the East Bay
Berkeley and the East Bay are a food lover’s paradise—but the best bites aren’t always in the guidebooks. If you’re visiting and want to eat like a local, skip the tourist traps and explore these secret spots and neighborhood favorites that East Bay residents keep close to the vest.
1. Kiraku (Berkeley)
What to order: Uni udon, wasabi octopus, grilled skewers
Tucked next to a convenience store on Telegraph Ave, this authentic Japanese izakaya is a sleeper hit. With a cozy, minimalist interior and a constantly rotating specials board, Kiraku nails that Tokyo-after-dark vibe.
Local tip: Reservations highly recommended—this is a local date night favorite.
2. Tacos El Rey (South Berkeley)
What to order: Tacos al pastor, birria plate
You’ll spot this tiny taco truck parked near Ashby and Shattuck, often with a line of loyal regulars. Their handmade tortillas, generous portions, and slow-cooked meats make this one of the best street food secrets in the area.
Local tip: Cash only. Bring napkins—it’s messy in the best way.
3. La Note (Downtown Berkeley)
What to order: Lemon gingerbread pancakes, smoked salmon tartine
While not entirely unknown, La Note still feels like a hidden gem. This Provençal-style bistro serves up some of the best brunch in town, with a romantic back patio that feels like a French courtyard.
Local tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid long waits. It’s worth waking up early for.
4. Ippuku (Berkeley)
What to order: Chicken heart yakitori, housemade soba
This dimly lit, wood-paneled spot feels like a true Tokyo izakaya—dark, stylish, and slightly mysterious. The skewers are grilled to perfection, and the sake list is serious.
Local tip: They don’t allow kids, making this the ideal place for a quiet adult dinner.
5. Little Shin Shin (Oakland - Rockridge)
What to order: Garlic eggplant, dry-fried string beans
A longtime local favorite in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood, Little Shin Shin is one of those places where locals have “their” dish and swear it’s the best Chinese food in the East Bay.
Local tip: Order family-style and trust the daily specials—they’re always fire.
6. Rasa Caffe (Berkeley - Southside)
What to order: Chai latte, spiced mocha, vegan pastries
An artsy, soulful coffee shop near UC Berkeley, Rasa blends African, Caribbean, and Indian influences into its menu and ambiance. It’s a peaceful hideaway with incredible house-made chai.
Local tip: The backyard patio is a hidden oasis. Great spot to write or read.
7. Cholita Linda (Oakland - Temescal)
What to order: Fish tacos, plantain chips with salsa
Bright and colorful with Latin American street food flavors, Cholita Linda is beloved for its Baja-style tacos and tropical vibes. While Temescal Alley gets more foot traffic, this spot stays under the radar for first-timers.
Local tip: Grab a spot in the back courtyard—it feels like a mini vacation.
8. Donato & Co. (Elmwood - Berkeley)
What to order: Squid ink pasta, lamb sugo
Elmwood’s upscale Italian dining scene gets a major win with Donato & Co. With house-made pasta and elegant plating, it’s the perfect low-key splurge meal without the downtown fuss.
Local tip: Weekday happy hour at the bar offers great wine and small plate deals.
Final Thoughts: The East Bay’s Culinary Underground
From taco trucks and family-run bakeries to izakayas and French-inspired cafés, Berkeley and the surrounding cities are bursting with culinary surprises. Skip the Yelp top 10 and follow the locals—you’ll discover bold flavors, real stories, and a food scene that’s as diverse and authentic as the East Bay itself.
Ready to taste your way through the East Bay? Book your stay in Berkeley and eat like a local from day one.
