In 1852, Oakland was officially declared a city in its own right. Located on the eastern U.S. shore it is a well known seaport city with a prime location that is easy to spot. It happens to be situated right on the San Francisco Bay, directly across from the Golden Gate Bridge.

The climate in this city is much like other coastal cities in the state. The summer months are hot and largely dry while the winter months deliver a lot of rainfall and chillier temperatures. Still, it is a beautiful and serene setting for visitors to enjoy year round.

What the sunny shore cities of California are most known for besides miles and miles of sandy beaches is the active nightlife for adults. With the popular Jack London Square, the nightlife is at its best in Oakland. Here visitors will find live music playing nightly along streets lined with a large variety of shops, restaurants, and even one of the most famous old time saloons.

Chinatown is another popular destination as it allows visitors to tour through street after street lined with small shops and markets complimented well by the Asian foods available at every turn. This is a paradise for those who enjoy learning about different cultures or shopping for more unusual goods.

Yet, there are some rather unusual features that can be enjoyed on the waterfront as well. For instance, many couples enjoy romantic rides across the water on gondolas.