Berkeley City Guide

Berkeley offers diverse food with a strong farm-to-table influence. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices. International cuisines like Italian, Mexican, Asian, and Middle Eastern are common. Late-night options exist but are limited.

Nightlife is lively but laid-back compared to San Francisco, with live music venues, bars, and pubs especially around Telegraph Avenue and downtown.

A strong specialty coffee scene with many independent third-wave cafes and local roasters. Coffee shops often serve as social and study spaces.

Tipping is expected in restaurants (15-20%) and for services like taxis and hairdressers. Rounding up or small tips common for quick service.

SIM cards are available from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon stores or electronics retailers. eSIMs are common. Prepaid SIMs are easier to get, usually needing a valid ID.

Generally clean in residential and commercial areas. Some litter near university and busy streets. Waste pickup and recycling are reliable.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores operate 24/7. Limited late-night clinics, but hospital ERs are always open. Some food available late.

Groceries are easy to find with international options available at stores like Berkeley Bowl, Safeway, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's. Farmers' markets offer fresh local produce during the week.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Smaller shops may prefer cards and some are card-only.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees usually range from $2.50 to $5.00 plus your bank's fee.

Public schools teach mainly in English. Berkeley High and district elementary and middle schools are rated well. International schools are nearby in the Bay Area, not usually within Berkeley.

Growing nomad community tied to the university and tech sectors. Co-working spaces and cafes are popular spots to meet others. Nomad events exist but are modest.

Excellent green spaces with large parks like Tilden Regional Park and many smaller city parks. Trails and shaded walking are widely available.

Good running routes include flat waterfront trails at Berkeley Marina and hilly park trails. Running safety is good in well-trafficked areas.

There are multiple gyms including climbing and CrossFit. UC Berkeley sports facilities may be available to the public.

Many public tennis courts in parks and at UC Berkeley. Courts are mostly hard surface with some private clubs. Equipment rental is not common.

Padel courts are not common in Berkeley.

Several yoga studios offer different styles with drop-in and memberships. All instructors speak English.

Active martial arts community offering BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, and Taekwondo. Classes and competitions are common with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts are 3-4 hours away in the Sierra Nevada, including Lake Tahoe. Seasons run late fall to spring with rentals and terrain for all levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing are popular at Berkeley Marina and nearby bay waters. Rentals and schools are available.

Surf spots on the Pacific coast are 30 to 90 minutes away. Water is cold and wetsuits are needed. Beginner-friendly spots like Linda Mar are available.

Diving sites along Northern California coast, 2+ hours away. Water is cold with varying visibility. Suitable for beginners and advanced divers.

Good healthcare options with English-speaking staff. Major hospitals include Alta Bates Summit Medical Center and the UC Berkeley Tang Center.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets all state and federal standards.

Lots of parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly cafes. Attractions include Lawrence Hall of Science, Habitot Children's Museum, and Berkeley Marina.

One of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the US. Strong legal protections and many inclusive venues and community groups.

Berkeley is pet-friendly with many dog parks, vet clinics, and pet-friendly hotels and restaurants. Off-leash areas are common in parks.