California residents seeking a picturesque spot for swimming may find an appealing alternative in Lake Anza. Located in the East Bay region, approximately 200 miles from San Francisco, this destination is known for its natural beauty, featuring redwoods and oaks that create a peaceful environment.
Unlike the heavily visited Lake Tahoe, which attracts an average of 15 million visitors annually, Lake Anza offers a less crowded experience. The reservoir, covering about 10 acres, is described as a "beautiful gem" by reviewers and is situated within Berkeley's Tilden Regional Park. Visitors can hike around the lake, which is noted for its cleanliness.
Lake Anza has garnered positive attention, including being featured by California.com as one of the state's most beautiful swimming destinations. It holds a 4.6 Google rating from over 100 reviews, a figure comparable to Lake Tahoe's 4.8 stars.
The swimming area is open on weekends and holidays from May 16 to September 27, between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. It is noted as an ideal location for those who enjoy sandy beaches and walking along the water's edge in a wooded setting.
However, Lake Anza can also experience crowding, particularly on weekends and holidays. To ensure access, visitors are advised to arrive early, as the park may close to new guests once it reaches maximum capacity.
Safety advisories are available on the East Bay Regional Park District's website. Water safety can be affected by blue-green algae levels, and visitors are recommended to avoid getting the water in their mouths. Swimming is also discouraged for three days following heavy rainfall.