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Albany Bulb
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
117 reviews for Albany Bulb
117 reviews in English
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Review from Angie M.
Berkeley, CA
5/19/2012
I came here for a fun photoshoot.
I ended up leading my photographer on a fun filled adventure through castles, and boardwalks to find the library!
The people here are surprisingly friendly, too.
We both even agreed that we need to come back again just to hang and not work. :)
ps. When you start on the main trail, the castle will be off a small trail to the left of a 3 way fork, the boardwalk is straight ahead (a LONG way ahead), and the library is on the right. It's marked off by all of these flags. -
Review from Edward N.
San Francisco, CA
4/2/2012
I went there for the first time today and am digging The Bulb 200% !
I've just moved to Berkeley barely 2 months. FYI, I have 2 small dogs.
So the first place I took my dogs to if Cesar Chavez Park.
I got to meet very nice dog owners and everybody so graciously gave me places where to take my dogs ie Aquatic Park and Point Isabel.
But what makes The Bulb stands out more is the charm and ruggedness of how it was transformed from a landfill to a 'world' of its own. A rather hidden treasures with all the amazing large sculpture by fellow artist Osha Neumann! How one trash can become a sculpture such mind blowing is something that we all should take in and cherish.
Every corner that we ventured, up the rocks, along the shoreline, there are just one surprises onto another. Yeah, to those " 1 or 2 stars " yelpers here, the homeless people! But even their 'domicile' are uniquely build and to me are an 'art' of its own.
They are human beings just like you and me! I thought that this is what adding in the true charm of living in this part of the city! FREEDOM! If you guys has so much resentment towards this place, by all means, please don't come back EVER!
Leave it for others who truly appreciates what The Bulb.
Also, who said that this is a truly dog park in the first place? I love my dogs too but if you want a real dog park to go to, go to Point Isabel where it's prestined clean and and in a way, I feel, a very pretentious park to be. Everyone just walked their dogs up down , across and around like they are at the Westminister Dog Show!
And to Vanessa C., sorry about your dog! But being a dog owner, you should be aware at all times! I've seen dogs getting onto each other even at Point Isabel or Cesar Chavez Park. So to throw down this one is nothing but reflect back to yourself as a dog owner. The one and only rule as a dog owner is NEVER assumed that all dogs are well obedient and won't attack your dog or others! You have to be alert at all times. I can't tell if your dog is on a leash or not. FYI, my older dog was mauled by 3 dogs when he was 1 year old. And it happened in an opened off leash area. We are all standing closeby them. I didn't blamed the owners as you really cannot predict what lies ahead with dogs behavior. They paid for the stitches etc. and that's all we can do then. The next time, I just make sure I'm all alert and not distracted if there are other dogs around playing with them.
All I can say is that to those of us that really appreciate Albany Bulb, we are so blessed to have this place that we can treasure and share with friends and more.
To those who aren't and cannot see pass through all the negativity side that this place has to offer, it's really too unfortunate.
Lastly, here is a graffiti quote I came across :-
" More Glitter, Less Bitter! "
Peace-Out! -
Review from Krystal C.
Oakland, CA
1/20/2012 1 Check-in Here
I was pretty excited to come here after reading all the amazing Yelp reviews. To top it off, a friend also highly recommended the place. I finally brought my dog and when I got home, had to check yelp again to make sure I went to the correct park. It was not what it was made out to be for me. I mean yes, all the Berkeley grunge urban hippie art was there, ok, that's cool. But it really isn't that great of a dog park at all, as far as dog park goes. If you're there for urban art, great spot.
Let's put things in perspective, I am a loyal Point Isabel patron but always want to explore new lands for the doggie to play at. This is what I found with the Bulb compared to PI:
- AB: parking area is very cramped and scarce. Tons of cars are following people who leave and circling all around to find a spot. PI: an abundance of parking in the lot, along the street, even at costco which is a short walk over.
-AB: when you first walk on the trail, immediately to your left is a nice beach area. It is very small and only in a small stretch in the beginning but very open and easily accessible for dogs to run into the water, play in the sand, and walk along the trail. PI: water along the entire trail where dogs run in and out of or can swim along with you while you walk on the trail. No sand though, the sides are rocky and they need to make their way into the water
-AB: tons of grunge homeless people walking around , which I am totally fine with but my dog does this thing where he chases people who look sketch. If you continue hiking all the way to the top of the hill, it get's much quieter (and questionable) and you've reached a bunch of tents where all the homeless people reside. Their stuff is everywhere and it just looks like I brought my dog to people's park. My dog ran to one of their pile of clothes and I had to get him away. PI: No homeless people
-AB: the trail allow bikes and my dog was actually pretty good with bikes at park but I know many others chase them when they're off leash. And since this is an off leash park, that doesn't sound like a good combo. Oh, and to top it off....all the homeless people like to bike with their shopping carts in tow....over gravel and rocky pavement, so that loud thumping shopping cart noise....yeaaaa, dogs love that. PI: no bikes allowed
-AB: no grassy area at all so don't count on playing fetch with your dog. It really is just walking and letting them play in the beach. I guess you could toss the ball along a trail but it's so rocky and have very short straight ways, it's a little hard. PI: grass everywhere -
Review from Farrah-Elilia M.
Wahiawa, HI
4/30/2012
This place is a masterpiece. I miss the Bay Area. Seems like this spot got way more popular since I left.
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Review from summer r.
San Francisco, CA
11/6/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Went here the other day with the lil pup and discovered that the trail side was closed off by police due to some "suspicious" activity. i wonder...
so everyone and their dogs were splashing around on the beach, in the sand. i cant really say much since we didnt get to explore the whole thing. but the beach was ok. kinda dirty though with some areas of the beach infested with flies.
after 30 minutes at the beach, we left and went to point isabel instead. -
Review from Monica S.
5/25/2011 2 photos
Had the Rapture actually lived up to its promises, I'm quite certain the remains of said apocalypse might look something like Albany Bulb. Then, years later, you'd come to find the post-apocalyptic Waterworldesque survivors (yes, like the movie with Kevin Costner) clamoring over who's got the best shrubbery shrouded sanctuary.
The beachtown maze that is Albany Bulb offers an escape for the not so socially participatory individuals. Families live here tucked away in fully functional plywood dens, hippies with lone dogs congregate here and full time steam punks find refuge from the couch cushions they've maybe slept through. Honestly, I'm not sure where these Albany Bulb inhabitants come from, but their microcosm appears completely functional. Sure it's a little sandy and access to fresh water might require a bit of a hike, but the community here doesn't seem to mind or mess with the transient visitors looking to exercise their dog.
Better known for its popularity amongst canine owners, venturing here is a treat for both animal and human alike. While your pup dips in the bay or explores the sandy trek through the windy paths, you might find yourself aweing at the impressive makeshift art on the north side of the bulb. It's an experience you can't pass up and you really haven't discovered the weird East Bay until you've taken a trip to Albany Bulb. -
Review from Vanessa C.
Hayward, CA
3/27/2012 1 photo
This place is a free-for-all, anarchy, Lord of the Flies style living. It's surrounded by amazing art and sculptures, beautiful views of the ocean, sunset, and ............homeless people? Tents? Garbage? The smell of human poo in the air??! My friend and I brought my dog here and we were about 45 mins. Into the hike when we stumbled upon the sculptures, these were AMAZING to say the least and definitely a photographers heaven. However, the whole park is off leash and it seems there are no rules or guidelines set forth for this place. (Like I said, it's a free-for-all). There is a mix of every demographic here and it seems to work just fine. However, when emergencies or accidents happen, good luck getting help. The first encounter I had should have made us turn back. There was a group of people sitting around a young lady who was crying because she had a giant gash in her forehead and was bleeding everywhere. There were police and an ambulance attempting to get the vehicles up into the trails to assist her. I have no idea what happened to her, whether she was smacked in the head by someone else or fell or what, but it was a pretty graphic sight. We continued further and gazed at the wonder of the amazing sculptures and urban art. As we came around the dragon sculpture, an unleashed dog approached mine. They smelled each other and then for absolutely no reason at all, his dog snarled and immediately without warning started viciously attacking my dog. He grabbed her by the neck (she's a corgi mix, his dog was a large hunting type hound/pointer) and just began thrashing her around and then pinned her to the rocks, gnawing at her neck. My friend and I immediately jumped onto the dog and began attempting to free her. He had her locked so tightly that her airways were being cut off, she wasn't making any noise so we were frantically beating this other dog, we were trying everything to get him to release his bite, I was beating this dog on the head so hard and it wasn't even making the dog flinch (I love animals mind you and would NEVER want to hit another animal, but in this case, he was trying to kill my dog so I was going to do everything in my power to save her) My friend was able during the struggle to grab a jagged rock and lodge it between the dogs teeth, prying the jaws open, we freed her and he immediately lunged again at my dog, the owner jumped on him and held him down while we exchanged information. She went to the ER with terrible lacerations and deep bites. It was an almost $400 vet bill that the owner of the other dog DID pay and took responsibility for. After the incident, I made a phone call to animal control in Berkeley (their website states that they work in conjunction with Albany as it seems Albany is so small it has no animal services. The lady who answered in Berkeley was terribly rude and said "well if it happened in Albany then you have to call Albany PD right?! This is Berkeley!" Alrighty then! So I call Albany PD and they say "well you have to call Berkeley animal control (yeah, just got off the phone with those peachy people!...) so he says "well then just call the east bay parks and recreation dept". I did and the lady I spoke to had absolutely no clue what she was doing and when I said it happened at the bulb, she was like "the bulb?? I don't even think we own that!!". Ooookkkkaaayyy? So what now? I was transferred to so many different people that I finally got one lady who said "Fine! I'll just take the report then!" Jee whiz, so sorry to inconvenience you! So if this dog attacks another dog, it will at least show a track record, but it sure took moving mountains to report it! Like I said, there seems to be no rules around here so if something happens, expect to take care of yourself because the police sure wont!! Although the owner paid for the damage, and my dog is recovering, I just don't think I will ever want to visit this place again, people with their dogs off leash and no control over them, it's just too scary.
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Review from Bob W.
Emeryville, CA
5/13/2011
Great view of where we would all live if we had more money.
Smells are "not of this Earth."
Used to be a dump: collect multiple carcinogenic buddy's every time you go.
Second best place in the Bay Area for your dog to eat junkie feces.
Some of the bums out there have some epic encampments.
The homeless are only mildly deranged there.
Bring your kids; teach them the danger of illicit narcotics by strolling them along the alleys of Albany's "Slumdogs".
"Trash Art" is perfect for inspiring the decor at your Burner camp later this year.
The possibility to make some money is only a few steps away at Golden Gate Fields Horse races! -
Review from Adlih Z.
Oakland, CA
6/19/2011
I must say that the recycled material used for art is simply amazing.
This whole area is full of contradictions from the trash art to the homeless encampments.
I came on a particularly stressful day and left all my troubles behind after spending some time on the water's edge listening to the Ocean.
Lots of views and overall a beautiful place to go for a quick escape from reality (or a harsh reminder of what other people are going through if you walk by the encampment).Listed in: Get some vitamin D in the bay…
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Review from Patrick C.
San Francisco, CA
5/5/2011
Holy homeless problem, Batman!
(My dog demanded I give this five stars, but I had to take one off because I thought I was going to be recreating that unpleasant scene from Deliverance when we happened upon someone's "home" in a desolate area.) -
Review from Jesse R.
Oakland, CA
12/12/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Awesome place for a short hike! Lots to see and photograph!
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Review from Em S.
1/20/2011 2 photos
The Albany Bulb looms large as one of the reasons I selected a home on Albany Hill when moving from San Francisco (aside from property values). I had always lived near Golden Gate Park, Ocean Beach or Lincoln Park in SF ... some place to go for a morning run and an afternoon walk ... often on the same day.
The Albany Bulb is as wild or wilder than the Lands' End trail going past Lincoln Park along the Golden Gate to Sea Cliff. Plus Albany Bulb has a full on sculpture gardens of the spontaneous variety.
I hear that a tiny chunk of it will soon be a part of the Bay Trail which is alright with me. However, I'd rather not see any part of the Bulb go the way of the Gilman Street soccer fields. They had to pave over a lot of rabbit homes and other habitat in order to create 4 hour per day habitats for a few humans. I played intercollegiate soccer at 17 to 19, but still don't approve of wrecking coastal habitat to do it. Just a view of someone who passes by the place every day for the past 10 years. The Bulb is way too precious to waste in any such fiasco.
There's a lot of personal history for whole generations of kids including this somewhat older kid. I've talked with many a friend on the Castle. Had early success practicing my Liu He Ba Fa movement style on the big field opposite the parking area. Had a decent look at August shooting stars some years back while laying on my back staring at the MIlky Way as advised.
It's a safe place by the Bay in a region where "safe" is not often heard. Makes a person glad they live in Albany ... the little oasis by the Bay.Listed in: My Neighborhood, Walks
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Review from Linda T.
4/3/2011
This has always been one of my favorite bike-riding destinations. I'll resist putting up photos because I sincerely believe that you have to see it for yourself. Whether you take your dog, pig, or human companion, be sure to search for the house, the seesaw, the large burningman-esque sculptures, and the footprints.
Albany Bulb around sunset is magic. And I mean that to be an understatement.Listed in: How to Fall in Love with…, Me Time
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Review from Brian M.
Marina Bay, CA
What can I say that all the others haven't already said. Come here. Period.
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Review from Delya S.
10/13/2010
This is honestly in my top five favorite spots in the whole Bay Area. It is a spot where the things people associate with the Bay Area are alive and well: natural beauty, Hippies, found art, marijuana, college students, the Bay, views of the City, kids and dogs. For me, those are positive associations, but for some people those are the things that aren't good about the Bay Area. (Well, the Hippies, amateur art and drugs: I don't think anybody hates the views or natural beauty of this area.) So, when people visit, I almost always take them here first. Since they're friends with me, they usually love it. This is a good place for a picnic spot and I've never had a problem bringing a bottle of bubbly (pack out your trash!).
Much of the art here is a work in progress and very slow motion interactive. I've seen people bring paint or beads in order to create dream catchers or add to a piece already there. It can make for a really fun and special outing!
I cannot recommend this place enough for the groovier folks in the world. Be sure to traverse the entire area, or come multiple times: There are treasures everywhere! -
Review from Ligaya T.
San Francisco, CA
6/28/2009
An odyssey through oddities. Think junkyard acid trip.
This former landfill has been transformed by a welders torch and cans of spray paint into an artist's jungle of warped rebar, miscellaneous detritus and scattered concrete blocks adorned with stencils and random graffiti. Pieces are hidden under bushes, atop crags and under the canopy of treeclumps; there's always something to be discovered.
The trails are haphazard and ill-maintained, so take the coastal route if you're on bike. With dogs and vagrants running about, the overall effect is more post-apocalyptic than beautiful, but towards the west/north end of the peninsula there are some incredible sculptures: seek out the samurai, contemplative bench sitter, shoveler and dragon. Just around the bend, there's also a vast field of blackberry bushes if ya feel like snacking. I'm sure they absorbed some good nutrients from the soil, eh?
Wear some quality kicks, or get a tetanus shot, and you'll be all set to trek!Listed in: Lazy Sundays, Yelpers to the rescue!, Green Space, Bike friendly!, On the Bay Trail
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Review from kimberly v.
Berkeley, CA
5/24/2008
Urban Wilderness at its best. There's the bay, of course, which looks different every time you come here. Some days it's blue and glassy and the place feels like Hawaii; other times it's windy and brisk, with white caps and the zesty energy of the ocean, but mostly it's full of surprises. People with all kinds of dogs come here, so if you're like me, and love dogs but don't have time to pick up their poop a couple of times a day, you can pet til your heart's content. On a weekday, you can often have the place mostly to yourself, as you stroll along the water, hike up into the trails through weeds, um, native plants, to a bunker-type castle or strange and wonderful urban art creations.
There is a fairly significant homeless population living here, and I can't say that I blame them. One of my friends invited a few of the local residents to a birthday party he was having years ago, and they were articulate and well-mannered, which went a long way toward feeling fearless as I explored the nooks and crannies of the place. (If you are very squeamish, however, I advise sticking to the larger trails.) There is wildlife of other types in abundance, however, and children love it.
Bring sunscreen and water, and a little knapsack full of food, and you'll have a glorious day.Listed in: The best things in life are…
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Review from Erin W.
Fremont, CA
8/8/2007
How can something so wonderful that it brings a tear of joyfulness to my eye spook me the eff out of me so much?
Part dog park, part art installation, part scrap yard, part high-end-homeless-encampment, part post-apocalyptic movie set. All Awesome.
I took the doggies here after droppin the Hyphy Wifey off at a bridal shower up near "The Circle".
The plan was an hour there, then putter around Solano Ave 'til the wifey wanted to be picked up.
The reality was I got sucked into one of those weird time warp things, of creative energy, awe, and wonder. I think if I was in Sedona Arizona it would of been called a vortex. Two and a half hours of my life poofed away and I never walked through the middle. I circumnavigated the park and every ten feet or so the was something pause-worthy.
My favorites:
The Sago Palm house that will be my new home, when the end of days are here.
The mini-Mediterranean villa with a roof deck.
The lil lagoon with the mostly water covered stones across one end. They are below the surface, but barely, enabling you to pull a walk-on-water trick that is sure to impress your friends.
Scrap Metal Woman.
Yellow fishies painting.
The ghosts of the two lil boys picking blackberries on a steep hillside. Their pails were full, yet I saw no ripe berries on the bushes. Spooky. Even spookier, my houseguest took the dogs there two days later and saw the boys in the exact same spot.
If you have doggies or not, get to this place. The combination of eerie and awe is unduplicatable. -
Review from frankie c.
Oakland, CA
6/13/2009
Before my dog turned into a raging asshole, this was our favorite hangout. Tons to explore with an amazing view.
BUT Beware the creepy people living in bushes. Really. -
Review from Shiki W.
Oakland, CA
5/31/2010 2 photos
What a lovely, sunny and windy afternoon I had out here with two of my favorite things in the world: Jason Statham look-alike and his Staffordshire Terrier Gretchen.
First was the little beach with about 10 dogs running around, good sized waves for Gretchy to jump over, the wind was perfect, the sun kept us warm.
Then a lovely little hike up and down thru forks, trails, crumbled concrete and high-contrast flowers till we got to the tippy tip where land meets water.
Towers of metal scraps twisted and piled into t-rexes and yogi statues, celebrity figurines and canvases for graffiti.
Chipmunks and the sound of the water followed us along the trails. Gretchy stopped frequently to sniff at every little thing ~ she had such a good time!
The sex machine who guided our tour led us out a different path but we eventually ended up where we started. Scenic, private, healing. Great little getaway! -
Review from Gail N.
12/26/2009
This must be a place where people come to get high...
On Life! =D
So, my original plan was to run off a majority of the xmas calories by starting at Costco and working my way towards Emeryville along the San Francisco Bay Trail.
But, when I arrived near the Golden Gate Fields, I was a bit confused as to how to get to the other side...thus, I continued to follow the trail...and stumbled upon gloriousness!
"Albany Waterfront Park". Eh? Oki. Whatever. Keep on joggin...eventually...the road turns into a trail...and the trail leads to the...ocean!
*gasp!* Wow...keep on joggin. Pass by the chill looking people and their dogs (yea, there are a lot of dogs here...but, they all mind their own business, so it doesn't impact my run at all).
At one portion of the trail is a 270 degree view of the bay - all of the Bay Bridge + SF under a layer of fog lining a calm, soft grey ocean.
Then I arrive at a fork in the road, and decide to venture the more "rugged-ish" lookin one, where I stumble upon glorious graffiti'd rocks and stepping stones. There's a crafted stone chair which I lean against for a while to really absorb the scenery. At this point I'm like...WOW. Life is pretty damn good! It's so serene and mezmorizing I have the urge to jump into the ocean and swim towards the bridge...
But no, I keep on jogging...and there's a weed hut!
O_o!!!
Ok..Well, mayhaps constructed for a greater purpose...but that's what it looks like! It's super well constructed, blaring with colors of all psychidelicness, and so incredibly ghetto fabulous! It even has a pseduo balcony where you can just sit, meditate, and let your mind wander on for ages!
Finally, after tearing myself away from this creativity, I continue on the path where I come across lots of random wielded pieces of art...a "voodoo" kinda statue greets me while joggin down another hill.
I get lost for about a good 45 minutes here, until finally...I make my way out, realizing...
Damn.
The East Bay is so freakin cool. -
Review from Chris T.
San Francisco, CA
3/18/2009
I think I have a tiny rusty splinter still embedded into my finger, which I don't know how to remove unless I jab it with a needle that requires it to be burnt over flames. I think I'll wait and see what happens with the former scenario.
I got this potential toxic shard while climbing around the Albany Bulb. We saw a few sculptures made of old bicycle wheels and streamers over the path and wanted to see if there were more hidden pieces. All we found was more of tetanus city and 2 empty 40 bottles.
I highly recommend not climbing on any path that requires you to brace yourself. Hiking trails you can grasp a jutting root or a steady rock... the AB offers copper rebar and broken glass! Sneakers are almost a must... it's a landfill with surprisingly difficult terrains in some parts... well, at least the cool parts. The best pieces are in the beaten paths.
Best way to describe the Bulb... creepy-cool. Very dirty looking, but you cant resist staring at certain objects for a few seconds. Many of the large rocks become canvasses, which in turn may become part of a sculpture. Great stencil work here... also graffiti work (not tagging per se), and regular painted pieces.
Some parts you think you've run into a large art piece, only to realize it's someone's makeshift home. There were many instances I could imagine a dead body part underneath the numerous tarps and rags. Gutted teddy bears rest on planks. There's a section where you hear an ominous slow creak... it turns out its coming from an intricate windmill. Found a paper mache cow made from a shopping cart in the middle of a clear field. The bigger pieces are those made out of floating scrap wood. Amazing how the artists were able to make a large female figure look flowing and mobile out of such dense pieces as sheet metal and wood.
This place is ever changing... old "murals" are painted over, vandalized, only to be coated with a new expression. Shockingly huge... I don't believe we covered even half in our 1 1/2 hrs there. Impress friends with this grimey find. -
Review from Stephanie W.
Arlington, VA
7/28/2008 3 photos
Albany Bulb is the dividing line where Art meets Industry. Nature has retaken the sight of this former landfill and industrious people who visit have used the debris to express themselves in the form of chrome dragons and statues akin to those found at Burning Man and the strangest acid induced fantasies.
It's the perfect mixture of beach and trees. There are areas for hiking, areas for building, and always new things to explore. It's a very dog-friendly environment (and though I am not exactly a fan of dogs, I appreciate it from an objective viewpoint). It's the perfect place to bring a picnic, have a fire, build a sculpture, explore the castle, and have an overall lazy day.
Make sure you also bring a book you no longer want to trade at the barter library. It may look like an unassuming shack and homeless man from the outside, but the inside is full of well organized treasures.Listed in: Adrenaline: The Natual Form of…
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Review from Jennifer B.
Oakland, CA
7/11/2009
This is an untamed land - a messy mangling, not unlike the haphazard rebar sculptures that randomly adorn it, of underground culture, nature in its estuary form, community friction, trash, and art. It's a not-for-kids park, a not-for-curators art gallery, and a not-for-REI naturescape. The people enjoying the park on Saturday seemed mainly to be hipster dog-walkers, scampersome creative souls and the homeless that live there. I appreciated the opportunity to perambulate through the bramble and scramble up the makeshift trails.
Eyeful after eyeful await those with an unconventional taste in art and expression. Pretty it ain't, but there's much more of intrigue to discover than can be seen in one glance or even one visit. Sit on a slab of decorated concrete, once a piece of a freeway, and wonder about how, through it all, birds and bushes thrive unfazed.
I found this article especially interesting after my visit:
http://www.sfgate.com/...Listed in: No, YOU come over HERE, Ah the outdoors
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Review from Alison V.
Alameda, CA
12/17/2008 8 photos
I effing love this place. It's definitely in my top 5 favorite places in the Bay Area.
Where do I start. Well, how about at the entrance. I have never had an issue parking. The small parking lot always looks full, but there are people coming and going which opens up a spot to park every couple seconds it seems.
I love walking up and seeing anywhere from 15-30 dogs running freely on a beach having a marvelous time. I think I'm the only person wh keeps my dog on a leash and that's because the poor little guy thinks he's a pit. He challenges any and every dog he doesn't know and he only weighs 15 lbs. If you have an agressive dog, be cautious. Many dogs (friendly) will run up to your dog. The only reason I gave this place four stars is because I'm easily intimidated by large dogs, especially if they're charging at me... friendly or not.
The hiking trails are fantastic there are many different ways to get to all the places on the bulb. It's kinda like a "choose your story" book. If you want a nice easy stroll, you go one way. If you want to work up a sweat, you just go another way. I love some of the rollercoaster like up-and-down hills.
The Bulb is a penninsula and has absolutely stunning, picture perfect views of the Bay. There is art everywhere. And I seriously mean.... everywhere. You can't escape it and nor do you want to while you're there. I love taking pictures at the Bulb. I average around 150 every time I go. I have spent hours there taking my time, walking around and observing everything there is to take in... and I still have not hiked every path or seen all of it's hidden treasures. You could go once a week and each time you'll see something you didn't see the previous week. It's constantly changing and I love every inch of it. My favorite things are the all of the many stencils you see painted on rock, concrete, plastic, hubcaps.... I am in love with cupcake stencils.
They recently tore out the skate bowl, which really made me sad. It was an excellent BBQ place. It still is, but the bowl was really fun.
Most of the people you encounter are friendly. I haven't met or encountered a person I didn't like. There are plenty of families and it's a great place to bring children. You could spend an hour or a day here.
This place is the shiz.Listed in: Me and my sweetie go here:
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Review from heather w.
Berkeley, CA
4/21/2008
Incredible, beautiful place to take a little hike, with the dogs in tow. The beach is a dog's heaven, with wind, water, and sometimes yucky dead things to roll in. It can be a little on the funky/dirty side as there are a lot of people who oblivously ignore their dog poop and there is more than a fair share of complete assholes who think they're dog's obsession with "their" ball is cute. To whit: "Oh, he just loves his ball!" said after the dog ripped my dog's ear to shreds. "he just doesn't want to share, can you stop your dog from trying to play with mine?" Oh yea.... I get it, you bring a ball-obsessed dog the DOG beach with his favorite unsharable toy and it's okay that he just shredded my dog and that's somehow okay? Puh-leeze.
Or here's one, after Humpy McHumperton has made my (spayed) bitch miserable by humping her nonstop for 1/2 an hour, "Oh, dogs like that! Look he LIKES her!" Uhm, no bitch. Your dog is being socially retarded and my dog is clearly not enjoying it, could you please get your fucking dog under control?
Then there's the tundra -- beautiful, windy, a lovely place to work at training exercises or just throwing a ball or frisby around. You may find the lady with 10 tiny yappy dogs that are most definitely not under her control will will hinder your ability to train your dog, but at least she's harmless.
The bulb itself -- a marvel of trash or found art, made by people who genuinely put their souls into artwork that will never be publicaly appreciated (except by those of us who really walk around and enjoy it). Be forewarned that there can be some real assholes, like the guy with the unneutered pitbull (complete with doggie diaper on) that chased my terrified dog like a greyhound on a rabbit. The guy got mad when I asked him to please recall his dog so I could get mine. Ended up he offered to punch me in the face. I almost took him up on it, but then just went off to find my dog.
So you see, because of these few and far between incidents, I unfortunately do not frequent the bulb very often. At least not without pepper spray or a large guy to be my body guard. But it is beautiful and a nice piece of the Bay Area you rarely hear about. Enjoy it while it lasts; there are some serious money people who are bound and determined to create a lovely waterfront strip mall for high-end stores and restaurants. It will happen, so enjoy it now. -
Review from Roachie D.
Oakland, CA
6/22/2008
I can't believe it took me nearly two years living in Oakland to find this place.
And the only reason I did was on the recommendation of a friend.
I went scouting out for the *perfect* bonfire/picnic area.... and ended up losing nearly 3 hours here.
It's an old dump. Cool. It's been long enough that vegetation has grown back and the entire place feels like a fort/playground for grownups.
Each twisty little trail leads to a new and beautiful discovery.
I would highly recommend starting on the left, and working your way clockwise around the bulb. Every thing you see is better than the last.
The heart shaped castle, that gives you the feeling of nostalgia for the dystopian future, the small fire pit in a grove of trees, with dadaist found art hanging from the trees... the huge winged human figure sculpture watching over the most perfect place for a party.... the row of recycled art sculpture, and painted art that makes you feel grateful that someone (a group of someones) put so much time and effort into repurposing materials specifically for the intent of providing something beautiful.
A few minutes walk from the parking lot, and you can almost not hear the freeway... and the panoramic bay views of both bridges and all of east bay is breathtaking.
This place is definately not for everyone. It's an off-leash dog park by day, and year-round shanty town... I would absolutely be sure you're up on your tetanus shots before coming out here to play.
But for me, its one of the most perfect places I've ever been... and one with only one visit, its already on my list of top 5 places in the east bay.
amazing. -
Review from Kirk S.
Pittsburg, CA
11/6/2008 4 photos
this place is a trip. I heard about it from some arty friends but never went out there. Then some skater friends and I treked out there to find this DIY skate spot that was featured in a skateboard magazine. It was a tight little bowl, we fell a lot but got the hang of it.
I've heard they've since torn out the skate bowl and some other "safety hazards" lame.
it was a cool spot. -
Review from Lise L.
Oakland, CA
9/24/2006
Great place for the little doggins. It had all the pluses of Point Isabelle, but without the worry about the lack of responsibility of the dog owners that could lead to my little one getting munched.
We didnt manage to see the artwork so it must be down the on leash path. Now that I know its there, we will definitely check it out!!! -
Review from Kathleen W.
Albany, CA
8/11/2009
One of the best kept secrets in the East Bay. Ample parking along the street, paved sidewalks and some well worn trails and trash cans every 25 feet to throw away your bags of poop. I used to come here after a stressful day at work with a beer in hand to watch the dogs frolic and the fog roll in over SF.
If you hike in far enough towards the water, you'll find random structures of rocks, junk and art a la Blair Witch. When Point Isabel is packed end to end with pets, owners and everyone who likes dogs - Albany bulb is where the anti social dogs and owners go. Bottle of wine, cheese and crackers, bring a friend, bring a dog and go to the creepy building at the tip. Just head home before dark. -
Review from Michele K.
Oakland, CA
10/10/2009
This place is a true east bay treasure. It is very futuristic feeling, you are surrounded by sculptures and incredible pieces of artwork, meanwhile walking on terrain that has been built on top of a landfill.
The views are incredible and it is a very neat place to run your dog off leash...there is a little creepy "the hills have eyes" feeling to the place...but its part of the fun of the bulb. It is very reminiscent of the artwork that used to be along highway 80 back in the day when I was a kid...its a creative place to lose your thoughts and embrace your creative side, meanwhile getting you and your four legged friend some exercise! -
Review from Kelly C.
Alameda, CA
2/15/2009
I love the Albany Bulb. It's like a magical place of mystery. Sometimes it can be startling to wander off on one of the little side paths and find yourself in someone's front yard but I've never had any trouble from it. We used to go here all the time with our dog but then we had a baby and just stopped going. But we went again for the first time since she was born, took her and the dog and had a blast!
The 'baby' is now 3 and she had a fun time running around the castle. She also wandered off the path a few times which I admit made me nervous because of all the random metal objects poking up off the ground. I had a few episodes of paranoia where I just imagined her impaling herself on a rusty spike. But I digress.
The Albany bulb is just so much fun. We see new stuff every time we come here. The only warning I have is for those with small children do keep them on the path as there are metal objects poking up from the ground all over the place. Also mind the tides! We got stuck on the West side of the bulb once when we took too long meandering along and the tide came in. we had to blaze our own trail and received scratches and cuts to prove it.
This place is an artist wonderland! All that is missing is rides!
P.S. I had to minus one star because of the dangerous metal objects that might kill my child. But if I didn't have her I'd give it a 5! -
Review from Diana S.
Oakland, CA
6/22/2008 1 photo
God, I love the Bulb. I pray every night that the City of Albany evildoers who want to turn it into a sanitized art-free park will find some other project to direct their attention to, like the bus stop near my house (In Oakland, natch).
But I digress. The Bulb is one of those places that I take more adventurous out-of-towners and revel in the "oohs" and "aahs." I took my conservative, old-world father for a walk there the other day, a little apprehensive of what he might think of all the sexy art, but he just marveled over the concrete heart house and the view.
The Bulb could only happen in an urban setting--it's the perfect mix of industrial detritus, tweaker art, and nature taking back what's hers. It should be preserved as an urban historical landmark, if you ask me.
If that weren't enough, I found my cat at the Bulb. I even named her Albany! -
Review from Michael C.
Berkeley, CA
8/23/2010
Wow. Can't believe I hadn't been to this place until today.
On a beautiful Bay Area Day (mid-70's), the gf and I took Rebel the Cockapoo to this so-called "local treasure." We had just come from an amazing breakfast at Bette's Diner (on 4th st) and this was the perfect way to spend a hot day.
The East Bay has an impressive collection of dog parks, between the Marina, Pt. Isabel, and "the Bulb." Albany Bulb stands out because its a great place for dogs to play on the BEACH and in the OCEAN.
Im glad to find a beach this close, and though it's relatively small and not super-clean, it's a beach nonetheless. And great for doggies. Didn't get a chance to explore the trails, but even the beach itself is enough to warrant 5 stars. Highly recommended. -
Review from Debora L.
8/22/2010
I explored this gorgeous local gem with T today, soaking in the remaining days' rays of sun and enjoying the breathtaking views of the East Bay shoreline. Located directly behind the Golden Gate racetrack, at the end of Buchanan street, it's a pleasant & easy jaunt where you can take your pups (off-leash!) into the ocean water, enjoy a panoramic view of the city, and even see some "local art" (aka neon-sprayed graffiti) along the way.
Wear closed-toed shoes, and go during broad daylight hours. There aren't any lights nearby, but there is some parking and a Port-a-potty near the front of the park. If you're biking - stay on the coastline trail, which is paved.
The trip to the tip of the Bulb and back is maybe half a mile of unkempt terrain. It can get fairly windy, so bring a jacket.
It's definitely a nice place to take a short stroll (less than 1 hr), set up a canvas and draw, and enjoy the sunrise or sunset. The views are (in my opinion) superior to the nearby Berkeley Marina and a tad less crowdedListed in: the active life
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Review from Minda w.
11/22/2009 3 photos
Albany Bulb is quite the hidden treasure. if you didn't know about it, i'm not sure you'd ever find it. it starts off as nice park with a beach area where lots of dogs play. as you wander further it, there are lots of trails and eventually beautiful views of the bay and public art. very cool and imaginative. a samurai made out of scrap metal, a giant concrete tv, artist, dragon, and more. love the eclectic feel of the art. this is why i miss berkeley (and its surrounding areas).
wear good shoes as it is a bit of a trek to the sculptures.Listed in: My Second Home - SF Bay Area
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Review from Vandana M.
Oakland, CA
2/15/2010
If I were a dog, this would be my happy place. As a human, it comes pretty close (Target takes the top spot). I've wandered through and explored the seashore and the artwork a handful of times, and every time there is some new treasure to gaze at. Yesterday, it was the fog coming in to obscure Emeryville, SF, the Golden Gate Bridge, and everything around us. There was also a cool new red and black painting that I loved.
I agree that this is a much better place to take out-of-towners than Pier 39.
It's great to see a dump turned into such a magical spot (as opposed to the other way around). -
Review from Aaron M.
Berkeley, CA
8/3/2007 2 photos
My favorite dog beach in Berkeley. My dog's favorite beach in Berkeley too.
There is about 200 yards of beach, and only dogs roam the shores. The waves aren't too big, although sometimes the tide brings in a ton of algae or other debris. Parking is relatively easy and the sandy beach is easy on my pooches' joints.
But man oh man, no matter what the weather is like, this is the windiest place on earth. Bring layers of clothes and bricks to weigh you down. -
Review from Kaethe S.
Point Richmond, CA
7/21/2010
Dog fights, kite boarders, Haight Ashbury revisited....interesting place. I continue to go because I have not found enough dog-sandy beaches yet... fabulous view of the City. If you are adventurous or feel like walking into the less known...go explore the 'up and over' zone. Cool art, good efforts and a real slice of the less familiar (extensions of burning man... neverending).
Less dog civilized than Pt. Isabel, but that is a tightly run operation. This is just a day at the beach. Do watch the waves with your dogs and scout the other dogs for the less friendly.Listed in: New Exploits in East Bay, at…
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Review from Johnny C.
Emeryville, CA
7/10/2006
Great place to stroll and admire people's random outlets, whether it be an actual art piece built on high, or some xmas lights wrapped around a tree branch, this is a great place to take it easy.
Lots of dogs running around, so watch your step!
