Dog walking in San Lorenzo Park

Bernal Heights

Located less than an hour from downtown San Lorenzo, directly across the bay, is the charming neighborhood of Bernal Heights. This eclectic community contains one of the area's best kept secrets: Bernal Hill. Bernal Hill is located within Bernal Heights Park and allows visitors, both human and dog alike, a chance to see a rare 360-degree panoramic view of the entire San Francisco Bay, plus the Golden Gate Bridge, San Bruno Mountain, downtown San Francisco, and more. This incredibly serene park offers you and your pup a unique chance to escape the city hustle and bustle, while still being amidst all of it. You can also head to nearby dog parks -- Precita Park and St. Mary's Dog Park -- for more off-leash fun.

Inner Sunset

Once again traveling roughly an hour across the bay, you'll find the neighborhood of Inner Sunset. This is the primo neighborhood destination for those who want front-row access to the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park. In fact, Golden Gate Park offers visitors more than 1,000 acres of green space and beautifully landscaped grounds. Afterwards, head over to neighborhood favorite pet store, Sunset Pet Supply. This locally owned, homeopathic-based pet shop is sure to have everything you and your furry friend could need. The Inner Sunset neighborhood pawsitively cannot be missed.

Mission Bay

The neighborhood of Mission Bay is the purrfect place to continue your adventure. Plus, it's just 40 minutes across the bay from San Lorenzo. For your first stop in this up-and-coming neighborhood, head to the area-favorite park: Mission Bay Park. A portion of this park is completely fenced in, giving you and your furry friend a chance to release any pent-up energy. The dog-friendly play area also features water fountains for both you and your pup, as well as doggy waste bags and disposal areas. Afterwards,  head over to locally owned pet store Mission Critter for an array of healthy, natural food and treats.

Leona Heights

Just 15 minutes north of downtown San Lorenzo, you'll find the lovely neighborhood of Leona Heights. Located on the eastern side of the neighborhood is a wonderful natural area called the Leona Canyon Regional Open Space Preserve -- purrfect to explore with your pup alongside you. This incredible nature reserve encompasses a perfectly preserved wooded canyon and nearly 300 acres of protected land. Hike along the park's many trails and enjoy the serene setting just outside the city. You can hike with your dog on- or off-leash here; just be sure to pick up after them.

Piedmont Pines

Just 20 minutes northeast of San Lorenzo, located on the southern border of Oakland's Piedmont Pines residential neighborhood, lies the Redwood Regional Park. This incredible 2,000-acre park is full of 150-foot coast redwood trees, making it the largest remaining natural stand of these amazing trees in the entire East Bay area. Meander along more than 40 miles of trails with your furry friend and explore all the park has to offer in terms of wildlife, birds, scenic viewpoints, and of course, amazing photography opportunities. The park is also home to several rare species, including the Golden Eagle and the Alameda Striped Racer. The Redwood area surely will not be soon forgotten by you or your puppy pal.