The 30 Best Picnic areas with water features in California

Don Nottoli Park is a picturesque park located at 10050 East Taron Drive in Elk Grove, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a beautiful outdoor space for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and have fun with family and friends. The park features lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities, making it the perfect destination for a day out in the sun. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely stroll, host a picnic, or engage in some outdoor activities, Don Nottoli Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Patwin Park is a charming and picturesque park located in Vacaville, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush greenery, winding walking paths, and a serene pond perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. With its beautiful landscape and tranquil atmosphere, Patwin Park is the ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and connect with the natural beauty of California. Whether you're looking to enjoy a scenic hike, have a family outing, or simply soak up the sun, Patwin Park is a must-visit destination in Vacaville.

Brigadoon Park is a picturesque and serene park located on Brigadoon Way in San Jose, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush greenery, winding walking paths, and a tranquil pond. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Brigadoon Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Silicon Valley.

May Nissen Park is a beautiful 12.2 acre community park located at 685 Rincon Avenue in Livermore, California. Named after the longtime Livermore teacher, May Nissen, this park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park was renovated in 2019 and now features the May Nissen Swim Center, group picnic reservation areas, basketball courts, restroom building, horseshoe pits, multi-use sports field, tennis courts, pickleball courts, baseball/softball field, dog park, and a preschool. The baseball/softball field was renovated in 2009 and renamed the Randy Johnson Junior Giants Field in honor of hometown hero, Randy Johnson, a Hall of Famer and five-time winner of the Cy Young award. Reservations are available for Group Picnic Site Rentals, where visitors can secure a specific location and date for their event. The park is also home to a dog park, one of seven throughout Livermore, each with its own unique design within an enclosed area.

Vista Meadows Park is a picturesque park located at 2450 Westminster Way in Livermore, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush green meadows, scenic walking trails, and beautiful picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day out with family and friends. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply take in the stunning views, Vista Meadows Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Los Paseos Park is a charming park located in San Jose, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park is a popular tourist attraction, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the winding pathways, relax on the lush green lawns, or have a picnic with family and friends. The park also features playgrounds for children, making it a great destination for families. With its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, Los Paseos Park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Robertson Park, located at 3200 Robertson Park Road in Livermore, California, is a 110.3-acre neighborhood park that offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park features a tot lot, picnic tables, a dog park, restroom facilities, a disc golf course, and an Equestrian Center. Additionally, Robertson Park has a sports facility with two multi-use synthetic turf fields and one multi-use grass field available for rent. Please note that the Covered Arena is currently closed for maintenance, with the reopening date to be determined. The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District, which oversees Robertson Park, is dedicated to providing accessible facilities and communication channels for all members of the public. The district has a policy of maintaining an accessible website that complies with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) and is compatible with commercial screen reading software. Feedback is welcomed, and any accessibility issues are addressed promptly.

Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, located at 550 Palm Avenue in Morgan Hill, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction situated at the western edge of the Coyote Valley. Just 20 miles from downtown San Jose, this preserve offers a rural and wilderness experience for visitors. The multi-use trail is perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to enjoy. On August 13, 2015, the Arrowhead Trail at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve was certified by the National Park Service as an official interpretive site of the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Trail. The 4-mile Arrowhead Loop Trail offers stunning views of Mount Hamilton, Mount Umunhum, and the entire Coyote Valley. Visitors can learn about the area’s wildlife, cultural resources, and water resources through educational panels.

Skypark is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 361 Kings Village Road in Scotts Valley, California, United States. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Skypark offers visitors a serene and natural setting to relax and unwind. With its lush greenery, walking trails, and picnic areas, Skypark is the perfect destination for a day out with family and friends. The park also features a playground for children, making it a great spot for families to enjoy quality time together. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors, have a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area, Skypark is a must-visit destination in Scotts Valley.

American Legion Park is a picturesque park located in Stockton, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful and scenic escape for visitors to enjoy nature and relax in a tranquil setting. The park features beautifully landscaped grounds, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children. American Legion Park is a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind and connect with the outdoors. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, this park is a must-visit destination in Stockton.

Dennis The Menace Playground is a popular tourist attraction located at 777 Pearl Street in Monterey, California, United States. This whimsical playground is inspired by the mischievous character Dennis the Menace and offers a fun and interactive experience for children and families. With colorful play structures, slides, swings, and climbing walls, this playground is a perfect place for kids to let their imaginations run wild and burn off some energy. The playground is surrounded by beautiful greenery and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation. Visit Dennis The Menace Playground for a memorable and entertaining experience for the whole family.

El Estero Park is a picturesque park located at 725 Pearl Street in Monterey, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, serene lake, and beautiful walking paths. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or rent a paddle boat to explore the tranquil waters. The park also features playgrounds for children, a skate park, and a picnic area for families to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out in nature or a fun-filled afternoon with loved ones, El Estero Park is the perfect destination for all ages.

Berwick Park is a charming and scenic park located in Pacific Grove, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and relaxing moments in nature. The park features well-maintained pathways, lush greenery, and benches where visitors can sit and admire the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon or take in the sights and sounds of the ocean, Berwick Park is a must-visit destination in California.

San Carlos Beach Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 100 Reeside Avenue in Monterey, California, United States. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great place to relax, swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the sunshine. The park features a sandy beach, picnic areas, and convenient amenities such as restrooms and showers. Visitors can also explore the nearby tide pools and watch the local wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and families alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to unwind or an exciting place to explore the outdoors, San Carlos Beach Park has something for everyone.

Franich Park is a charming and picturesque park located on Menasco Drive in Watsonville, California. This popular tourist attraction is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush greenery, beautiful walking trails, and a playground for children to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax with a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, Franich Park is the perfect destination. With its serene atmosphere and stunning views, it's no wonder why this park is a must-visit spot in Watsonville.

Almaden Lake Park is a picturesque park located in San Jose, California, United States. Situated at 6099 Winfield Boulevard, this popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as picnicking, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The park also features a beautiful lake where visitors can rent paddle boats and kayaks. With its lush greenery and stunning views, Almaden Lake Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Williams Hill Campground, located in Bradley, California, offers a picturesque setting in southern Monterey County. Situated over 2,700 feet in elevation, the campground provides stunning views of the Salinas Valley and features a variety of amenities for campers. Campers can enjoy level RV pads, fire rings, shade structures, picnic benches, vault toilets, and an informative kiosk with a map and interpretive panel. While reservations and fees are not required, there is a 14-day camping limit within any 28-day period. It is important to practice good camping ethics and pack out all garbage upon departure, as there is no electricity, running water, or trash collection on site.

DeVaul Park Playground is a vibrant and exciting recreational facility located in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. This family-friendly park offers a wide range of amenities for children of all ages, including playground equipment, swings, slides, and climbing structures. With plenty of open space for running and playing, DeVaul Park Playground is the perfect place for kids to let off steam and enjoy the great outdoors. The park is well-maintained and clean, making it a safe and welcoming environment for families to gather and have fun. Come visit DeVaul Park Playground and create lasting memories with your loved ones in this beautiful setting.

Biddle Park is a charming park located at 3500 Lopez Drive in Arroyo Grande, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and plenty of open green spaces for picnics and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, take in the scenic views, or simply relax and unwind in this serene oasis. With its convenient location and tranquil atmosphere, Biddle Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Pioneer Park is a charming and historic park located at 1150 West Foster Road in Santa Maria, California. This beloved tourist attraction offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich pioneer history, with beautifully maintained gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails. The park also features a playground for children, making it a perfect spot for families to spend a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you're looking to learn about the region's past or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Pioneer Park is a must-visit destination in Santa Maria.

Orcutt Community Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 5800 South Bradley Road in Orcutt, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and plenty of open space to relax and unwind. The park also features playgrounds for children, picnic areas for families and friends to gather, and sports facilities for those looking to stay active. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon in nature or engage in some outdoor recreation, Orcutt Community Park is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages.

Calle Barquero Open Space is a beautiful park located at 5100 University Drive in Santa Barbara, California. This serene and peaceful open space offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The park is well-maintained and provides a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to unwind or a scenic spot to enjoy with friends and family, Calle Barquero Open Space is the perfect destination.

Goleta Beach Park is a picturesque waterfront park located at 5986 Sandspit Road in Goleta, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach, have a picnic in the grassy areas, or take a dip in the ocean. The park also features a playground, volleyball courts, and BBQ pits for a fun day out with family and friends. With its beautiful scenery and range of recreational activities, Goleta Beach Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea.

Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a stunning park located at 1500 Santa Barbara Street in Santa Barbara, California. Once the site of the El Mirasol Hotel, this downtown block is now home to a beautiful botanical collection featuring 75 different tree and plant species, a peaceful pond, a sensory garden with audio posts and Braille signs, a demonstration garden showcasing low water use plants, benches, walking paths, picnic areas, and a charming gazebo. This park is often referred to as the "crown jewel" of City parks. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the garden free of charge and are encouraged to join the dedicated team of volunteers who help maintain this beloved park. Every Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., volunteers of all experience levels can participate in tasks such as pruning, mulching, deadheading, and weeding under the guidance of Parks staff. Drop-in volunteers are always welcome and should meet at the big shed on the Santa Barbara Street side of the park. If you have your own hand tools and gloves, please bring them along, although a limited supply is available for use. Come and be a part of preserving this special green space in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Chase Palm Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 323 East Cabrillo Boulevard in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This park is divided into two areas on either side of Cabrillo Boulevard. The Ocean Side features a narrow park next to East Beach with an open grassy area, a bike path/walkway from Stearns Wharf to East Beach, and hosts the Sunday Arts and Crafts show. The Mountain Side is a 10-acre area of the park that includes fountains, a lagoon, and the shipwreck playground designed for children ages two to twelve. The park's stage is home to Concerts in the Park, a free summer concert series organized by the city. Chase Palm Park offers both indoor and outdoor rental spaces that are popular for parties and weddings. It is a beautiful and versatile park that offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Located at 1400 Santa Barbara Street in Santa Barbara, California, Alameda Park is a historic two-block park and popular tourist attraction. Originally part of a larger six-block area known as Alameda Plaza, this park is home to rare trees and a charming bandstand built in 1888 for local concerts. One of the main highlights of Alameda Park is Kids’ World, an expansive 8,000-square-foot wooden playground designed for children aged two to twelve. With features like a castle, swings, and slides, Kids’ World is a favorite spot for families and visitors alike.

The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park, located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, California, is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency. The center features a bookstore, displays of marine aquatic life, and exhibits showcasing the unique characteristics of each park island. Visitors can also enjoy the 25-minute park movie, “A Treasure in the Sea,” shown throughout the day in the auditorium (closed-caption film available upon request). The fully accessible visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, with closures on Thanksgiving and December 25th. On weekends and holidays, rangers offer free public programs at 11 am and 3 pm, providing insights into the resources of the park. The center also hosts various events and programs, which can be found on their website.

Oxnard Beach Park (olol’koy Beach Park) is a top-rated family-friendly beach located in Oxnard, California. Voted as the #1 Best Beach on the West Coast in 2023 by USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards, this park offers a stunning stretch of white sandy beach with rolling lawns, free public barbecue areas, volleyball courts, kids play areas, and skating and jogging paths. The park also features a covered group picnic area, making it a perfect spot for gatherings and celebrations. Situated between the Oxnard Shores neighborhood and the Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Oxnard Beach Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It is conveniently located along the Pacific Coast Bicycle Route, providing a great resting place for cyclists exploring the area. Nearby, visitors can find a variety of restaurants and attractions at the Channel Islands Harbor, as well as well-kept beaches perfect for sunbathing, kayaking, fishing, bodyboarding, and surfing.

Los Arboles Rocketship Park is a charming and family-friendly park located in Torrance, California. This unique park is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its one-of-a-kind rocketship-themed playground. The park features a large rocketship structure that children can climb and explore, as well as other play equipment, picnic areas, and beautiful green spaces for families to enjoy. With its convenient location at 5101 Calle De Ricardo, Los Arboles Rocketship Park is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day out in the sunny California weather.

Clover Park - Playground 1 is a charming recreational facility located in Santa Monica, California, United States. This playground offers a wide range of fun activities for children and families to enjoy, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. The park is surrounded by lush greenery and provides a safe and welcoming environment for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax in the sun or let your little ones burn off some energy, Clover Park - Playground 1 is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun.