A Day in Alameda

A Perfect Day in Alameda: Exploring Grand Marina by Land & Water

Tucked along the calm shoreline of the Oakland-Alameda estuary, Grand Marina is a hidden gem — a peaceful, sun-soaked stretch of waterfront where life moves at a slower pace. It’s also home to BAE Boats’ original location, where locals and visitors alike come to reconnect, celebrate, or simply enjoy a beautiful day on the water.

From lemon lavender scones and boutique shopping to floating charcuterie picnics and hot tub cruises at sunset, here’s how to make the most of a day at Grand Marina.

Start your morning at Mosley’s Café

Perched right on the dock, Mosley’s Café is a favorite among boaters, marina locals, and early risers. Their made-fresh-daily menu includes flaky lemon lavender scones, warm egg sandwiches, and turkey sandwiches on local sourdough — all served alongside smooth cold brew coffee and a small but well-curated selection of local wines.

If you’re heading out on the water, be sure to pre-order one of their charcuterie boxes: a beautiful spread of artisan cheeses (think triple cream Brie, aged cheddar, and herb chèvre), thin-sliced prosciutto, seasonal fruit like figs and berries, Marcona almonds, olives, cornichons, and honeycomb, all paired with fresh baguette and crackers. It’s the perfect way to elevate your cruise.

Cruise the estuary with BAE Boats

Just steps from Mosley’s, you’ll find BAE Boats — where you can captain your own electric boat with ease. No experience required, just a valid driver’s license and a relaxed mindset. Our boats are ultra-quiet, clean, and designed for comfort, with seating for up to 12 guests and Bluetooth sound systems on board.

We offer three tiers of boats to suit your style:

• Premier | Sun Cruiser ($200/hour)
  Our most elevated option with fully enclosed windows, plush interior seating, and a back patio that opens to the breeze. Ideal for celebrations or cruising in any season.

• Elevated | Old Bay (Enclosed) ($175/hour)
  A classic Duffy with wraparound windows and built-in seating — cozy, protected, and perfect for groups of friends or family.

• Basic | Pink Boat or Open-Air Old Bay ($150/hour)
  Open-air boats designed for sunny days, breezy rides, and casual get-togethers. Fun, relaxed, and photo-ready.

You can rent for 1, 2, or 3 hours — just enough time to explore the estuary, pass by docked sailboats and floating homes, and toast to the skyline.

Shop coastal essentials at Two Marys Mercantile

Once you’re back on land, take a few steps over to Two Marys — a beautifully curated mercantile with swimwear, Turkish towels, local gifts, and travel-ready accessories. Whether you forgot a beach hat or want something to remember your visit, it’s the kind of shop you didn’t know you needed.

Wind down with a soak at Hot Tub Boats Alameda

If you’re not quite ready for the day to end, we highly recommend booking a sunset cruise with Hot Tub Boats Alameda. Located just a few docks down from BAE Boats, these floating hot tubs are equal parts cozy and unforgettable. Choose from aromatic Epsom salt blends like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus and drift slowly through the estuary as the sun sets behind the city.

Plan your visit

Grand Marina is just 15–20 minutes from downtown Oakland or San Francisco and offers plenty of free parking. Advance reservations are highly recommended for both BAE Boats and Hot Tub Boats, especially on weekends or around golden hour.

You can pre-order your charcuterie and drinks directly from Mosley’s Café, and browse in person at Two Marys Mercantile.

Ready to get on the water? Book your cruise here.

The Grand Marina state of mind

Time slows down at Grand Marina — and that’s the whole point. From a pastry on the dock to a private boat cruise and sunset soak, it’s a place that invites you to pause, reconnect, and savor the moment.

We can’t wait to welcome you aboard.