01
Best overall pick
Martinez Waterfront Park Beach
Martinez Waterfront • Town Shoreline Park • Easiest In-Town Option
A small, sandy slice of shoreline right in town, ideal for quick walks, bay breezes, and low-key picnics.
If you want a beachy feel without leaving Martinez, this is the spot locals default to for an easy dose of water and sky. The sand and gravel shoreline is better for strolling, tide-watching, and letting kids dig than for serious swimming, but the network of paths, lawns, and benches means you can make an afternoon of it. Go around golden hour for big Carquinez Strait views and working-waterfront atmosphere.
02
Closest nature escape
Benicia State Recreation Area Beach
Benicia Shoreline • Bayfront Nature Beach • Best For Mellow Walks
A narrow, natural-feeling bay beach framed by marsh, hills, and easy walking trails just across the bridge from Martinez.
This stretch of shoreline feels surprisingly wild given how close it is to the freeway and the Benicia bridge. Expect pebbly sand, driftwood, and wide views of the Carquinez Strait more than classic sunbathing, with birds working the marsh and ships sliding by. Pair a short beach stroll with a longer walk or bike ride along the paved paths that trace the water’s edge.
03
Cozy cove feel
Keller Beach
Point Richmond • Hidden Neighborhood Cove • Best Nearby Swim Spot
A sheltered sandy cove tucked below the houses of Point Richmond, offering one of the closest true swimming beaches to Martinez.
Keller Beach sits neatly in a small inlet, with a proper swath of sand, gentle bay water, and a steep stairway that keeps it feeling semi-secret. On warm days you’ll see families, paddleboarders, and locals wading out from the shallows, with the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge framing the view. It’s compact, so arrive earlier on sunny weekends if you want a spot on the sand.
04
Most family-friendly
Crown Memorial State Beach
Alameda • Classic City Bay Beach • Top Family Beach Day
A long, gently sloping sandy beach with shallow bay water, picnic areas, and a relaxed residential backdrop.
When Martinez families say they’re "heading to the beach," this Alameda favorite is often what they mean. The sand runs for more than a mile, the water stays relatively calm and shallow close to shore, and there’s enough space to spread out with coolers, umbrellas, and sand toys. Add in bike paths, city views across the Bay, and nearby cafes, and it’s easy to turn a quick outing into a full day.
05
Worth-the-drive day trip
Rodeo Beach
Marin Headlands • Wild Oceanfront Beach • Best For Dramatic Scenery
A pebbly Pacific-facing beach backed by cliffs and coastal trails, perfect when you want big waves and classic Northern California drama.
Rodeo Beach is a go-to for Martinez locals willing to drive a bit farther for the full ocean experience. Instead of fine sand, you get colorful pebbles underfoot, crashing surf, and a backdrop of rugged headlands that feels a world away from the refinery skyline back home. Bring layers for wind, explore the bluffs and WWII-era bunkers above the beach, and stay for a sunset that lights up the entire curve of the coast.