Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Center — Castro Valley
Now I know I can’t be the only one wishing the local swim holes were open right now rightttttt?😩🥵
This little swim spot is perfect for a full day outing or an after work dip. We went on a very hot afternoon last August when sister didn’t want to nap. There’s a really nice parking lot (free!). Cross the bridge. To your left you will find multiple picnic areas, horseshoe pits, & a volleyball court. To the left is the entrance to the swim area. Walk underneath the trellises to the ticket window & either flash your @ebrpd season pass for free entry or pay the $2-4 a person fee (0-1 free, 1-15 $2, 16-61 $4, $62+ $2) [[plug: get the season pass. So worth it]].
Just passed the ticket window & before trail to the swim lagoon is the cabana that can be reserved as well as bathrooms, a vending machine, and changing rooms.
There is a short walk to the water where you’ll pass a grassy spot before reaching the covered picnic tables & finally the sand. Stop by the lifeguard station if you need life vests or to take the swimming test to go beyond the shallow zone.
At the far end of the water is another grassy area w/picnic benches & bbq.
Lifeguards require swim breaks where all kids have to exit the water for a little bit. It’s not awful but can be hard to keep the kiddos out. Bring snacks as a distraction.
We had such a great time at Cull Canyon. It felt like a very different vibe than the swim lagoon on the other side of the freeway. Very mellow and relaxing. When we went it was not crowded but I’ve heard it can be very busy. If it gets too full they do close entry for the day.
According to @ebrpd it will open the last day of April for weekends & then open on weekdays starting the last day of May.
Swim Hours: 11am to 6pm* (water closes at 5:30)
