We’re ready for spring here at Sunset View Cemetery & Mortuary, and in El Cerrito, Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, and Pinole, we’re lucky there’s so much to do to welcome the warmer weather, sunshine, and blooming flowers.  San Francisco and the Bay Area have endless destinations that are perfect to visit in the spring, and we’ve highlighted some of our favorites below.

Regional Parks Botanic Garden­­­

Focusing on California’s native plants, the Regional Parks Botanic Garden located within Tilden Park in the hills above Berkeley displays plants from across the state – all in one place. The garden is sectioned off by different regions to let visitors explore plants and habitats, including a rainforest and a desert and canyon. The 10-acre garden is also home to rare and endangered plants and even has a creek that flows year-round to add beauty, enchantment, and an additional habitat for insects, birds, and other animals. With free admission and tours, this park is a must see!

Mono Hot Springs

Hot springs are truly a wonderful treasure of Mother Nature as their natural beauty and magnificence often leave visitors invigorated and in awe. Mono Hot Springs located in the High Sierra Wilderness is no exception. At the Mono Hot Springs Resort, which opens Memorial Day weekend in May, guests will find camping areas, cabins for rent, and outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, fishing and, of course, soaking in the hot springs. Some of these hot springs are cornet-walled while others are surrounded by tall grasses – choose your view and soak away.

Russian River

For a relaxed, stress-free, and peaceful destination in the Bay Area, there’s no other river like the Russian River. As the second largest river that runs through the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, it’s just over 110 miles long and is a sanctuary for those needing an escape or reset. Bring a canoe or kayak to explore what the river has to offer during the spring. The area also has hidden beaches that allow visitors to lay out a beach blanket and allow their minds to drift away.

The Garden of Shakespeare’s Flowers

Spring is one of the best times to get out and enjoy gardens, flowers, and other plants, and the Shakespeare Garden located in Golden Gate Park has it all. A calm, peaceful oasis filled with flowers Shakespeare mentioned in his many plays, visitors can find about 200 types of flowers including lilies, poppies, daisies, violets, and, of course, roses. Several benches are available, and quotes from the famous English playwright are etched along the back wall.

We hope we gave our readers a few ideas to get spring travels off to a great start! As the days grow longer, remember we’re always here for families in El Sobrante, Kensington, Piedmont, and Albany. Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime.