Grieving the death of a loved one is an individual process. Whether you’ve recently experienced loss for the first time or have faced it many times in the past, grief can feel overwhelming. Too often, working through unfamiliar emotions is so uncomfortable that people will stall, sidetrack, or sweep painful feelings under the rug. Our staff at Sunset View Cemetery & Mortuary can attest both personally and professionally that grief has a way of emerging – sometimes when you least expect it.

We encourage you to explore the healing process in your own way…maybe you feel the need to spend time alone in reflection. Perhaps you find comfort in being around others. You might benefit from opening up to a grief counselor or even a close friend.

We’ve found that getting outside and spending time in nature can be a freeing experience, especially during moments of deep grief. Thankfully, the beautiful city areas surrounding El Cerrito offers many outside activities and places to help you reflect. Whether you like to sit and rest, take a hike, enjoy time with your furry friend, or smell the roses, consider visiting these destinations around the Bay Area:

Point Isabel Regional Shoreline / Point Isabel Dog Park
2701 Isabel St.
Richmond

This 23-acre park offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin County, and Brooks Island. If you like hiking and enjoying the company of your dog, Point Isabel Regional Shoreline and Dog Park is the perfect place to release some tension and stress. Dogs are allowed off-leash, but under control by the owner, to walk and see the sites.

The Berkeley Rose Garden
1200 Euclid Ave.
Across from Codornices Park in Northeast Berkeley

With 1,500 rose bushes and 250 varieties of roses, many consider this rose garden to be the finest in Northern California. Stroll through or sit and admire the beauty at this hidden gem in Berkeley.

Hillside Natural Areas
7501 Schmidt Ln.
El Cerrito

With numerous trails and paths to explore, the 102-acre land is home to many picturesque native plants, oak woodlands, and small bodies of water. This open space provides the fresh air we all need.

Japanese Tea Garden
75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive
San Francisco

Step into peace and serenity while enjoying the oldest public Japanese garden in the U.S. Filled with exotic Japanese plants, koi ponds, and Zen gardens, you can enter into a new world to leave behind any anxious feelings you are carrying.

Inspiration Point Trail
Berkeley, CA

Make it a Sunday evening getaway and hike Nimitz Way Trail up to Rotary Peace Grove lookout and experience the most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen. Overlook the entire Bay Area to feel as if you’re on top of the world.

Remember that grief is something we all face at some point in life, and it’s crucial to set aside time to deal with loss. Our caring staff at Sunset View Cemetery & Mortuary is here to serve the families of Oakland, Berkley, Piedmont, Richmond, Pinole, Hercules and El Sobrante long after the funeral ends. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us anytime.