What is it like to live in Alameda, CA?  The city of Alameda is one of the best kept secrets in the East Bay.  Located west of downtown Oakland and north of Oakland International Airport this incredible island offers a more affordable, small-town feel.

Like Manhattan, Alameda is actually an island.  Although it doesn’t have the tall buildings or bustling lifestyle found in Manhattan it does offer a variety of shopping districts, restaurants, and parks.  Alameda is reachable via bridges and underwater tunnels and is also accessible via ferry, which makes for a great option for commuters who work in SF.  The ferry offers a stress-free commute overlooking the incomparable SF Skyline.

The city features a small-town feel with big-city amenities.  Park Street, the towns “Main Street,” features quaint, independently-owned shops + restaurants and is home to the annual Classic Car S

how.  Grab an ice cream from Tucker’s Ice Cream; shop for local groceries at Alameda Natural Grocery; head to District Footwear for some new shoes; unwind with a beer at Alameda Island Beer Co.

Life here moves at a slower pace.  The speed limit across the island holds at 25 miles per hour and the beach offers endless hours of relaxation.  Architecture is a classic mix of Craftsman, Traditional and Bungalow on the east end with newer Planned Unit Developments near Alameda College and on Bay Farm Island.  But the island is best known for its incredibly ornate Victorian Homes.  Grand Street and the Gold Coast are the best spots to see these vividly decorated houses.

Alameda is also famous!  Have you ever watched Mythbusters or Matrix Reloaded?  Filmed here!

If you are looking for a small town that is family-friendly with great schools, terrific weather, and incredible food, this is your spot!