Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach

Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach is a 2.5-mile sandy beach on the bay side of Alameda, operated by the East Bay Regional Park District. Sand dunes border a bicycle trail along the shore, and the water is warm and shallow by Bay Area standards, which makes it a favorite for families with small kids.

Who uses it

Swimming is allowed year-round during park hours, but there are no lifeguards. Crown Beach is popular with windsurfers and kiteboarders, and only sailboards, kayaks and car-top inflatables are permitted on the water, with rentals and lessons available. A bathhouse with changing rooms sits at the west end.

Crab Cove

At the beach's north end, Crab Cove on McKay Avenue is a marine reserve where plants and animals are protected. The Crab Cove Visitor Center has exhibits and aquariums of bay marine life.

Know before you go

The park is open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. unless posted otherwise, with gate closure and restroom hours posted on the park page. Dogs aren't allowed on the beach. Parking is $5 per vehicle at a cashless pay station. The park district tests the water at six sites (weekly April to October, twice a month in winter) and posts results on stoplight signs along the beach. It advises avoiding swimming for 3 days after rain.