Top Outdoor Yoga Spots in the Bay Area

Once a large swimming complex privately owned in the late 19th century; the Sutro Baths ruins are as picturesque and peaceful as the original building. Surrounded by beautiful views of the cliffs and tide the beach below is the perfect place to bring your mat and solute the sun. Explore the famous Sutro Baths cave and various small corners between the water and rock. Yoga on the beach is always best in the morning so come early and warm up with a light hike through the ruins before beginning your session.

An evening session at the Lafayette Reservoir is the perfect way to end your day. During the day the reservoir is alive with various activities such as fishing, boating, picnicking, rollerblading and hiking. In the evening however the reservoir is frequented much less save for a few quiet joggers. Surrounded by lush green walking trails the glassy body of water can be seen from every point providing a beautiful view to look out onto while doing yoga. There are plenty of grassy areas on which to roll out your mat as well as various docks and stages around the reservoir. The stages require reservations in advance but are perfect for larger groups and provide a bit more stability than the soft grass. The reservoir is conveniently located minutes away from downtown Lafayette; perfect for grabbing a bite after your session at one of the many restaurants and cafes.

The historic Marin Headlands boasts miles of lush trails among a green hill side located across the Golden Gate Bridge in the North Bay. Prized as a Golden Gate national park the Headlands are one of the best locations in the Bay Area for hiking, jogging, biking, picnicking, and beach-walking. There are multiple historic landmarks tucked away in the hills as well such as the two military forts, Fort Cronkhite and Fort Barry both located on Rodeo Beach. Rodeo Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the San Francisco Bay Area. Home to a roaring surf, majestic cliffs and diverse collection of natural stones, it is an incredibly peaceful and secluded location for outdoor yoga. The Headlands provide amazing views of the setting sun so an evening session is highly suggested!

Lake Merritt is one of the Bay Area’s many beautiful attractions and has been an overall fixture in Oakland since 1870. Located in the Lakeshore neighborhood and near the iconic Grand Lake Theater the 3.4 mile wide lake is perfect for all outdoor activities, particularly yoga. The lake is surrounded by a paved path bordering long expanses of green picnic spots and the beautiful Lake Merritt gazebo. The multiple grassy picnic areas are often frequented by yogis but the gazebo is a great location to enjoy your session. An additional mat or supportive pad is suggested for the gazebo but in the evening the view cannot be beat. The ‘necklace of lights’ that encompass the entire lagoon are lit and cast a soft whimsical glow across the water complimenting the setting sun.