Alameda started out as a peninsula, but some government hotshots in 1902 decided to show off their trench-digging skills and made Alameda an island. In contrast, Alameda’s other “island”, known as Bay Farm Island, became a peninsula (due to land reclamation) although it started off as an island. The only way in and out of the city, by car, is via the Posey-Webster Tube (aka Oakland-Alameda Tunnel) or one of four drawbridges.
Of course, if you take one of the ferries leaving Alameda, you can be at the San Francisco Ferry Building, a Giants game, or Angel Island in about 20 minutes. And as a bonus, on the last Friday of the month, the commuter ferry throws a party with live music during commuting hours. You can enjoy an end of the week drink while listening to live music. Given the crazy traffic we have these days this is a much more relaxing commute option.
Alameda housing stock is quite diverse including the largest stock of Victorian houses within the East Bay. Alameda has approximately 3,000 Victorian houses which comprise 9% of all single-family houses. Many prospective home buyers have Alameda on their home buying radar due to the walkable charm of the city and it’s close proximity to San Francisco and Oakland.
Due to Alameda’s proximity to the Bay, wind surfers and kite boarders can usually be seen at Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach. From the beach there are also views of the San Francisco skyline and the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge. Speaking of views Alameda Pointe has some relaxing places to enjoy beautiful views along with some great food and drink options at Rock Wall Winery, Building 43 Winery, Hangar 1, St. George Spirits and Faction Brewing.
