LakeMerritt
The Heart of Oakland
The United States' First Official Wildlife Refuge (Est. 1870)
The Living Necklace
Tidal Lagoon
A Living Estuary
Directly connected to San Francisco Bay, Lake Merritt is a rare urban estuary where tidal salt water mingles with fresh water — creating a brackish ecosystem teeming with life in the heart of Oakland.
Bird Islands
Pacific Flyway Sanctuary
Five artificial islands dot the lake's surface as protected sanctuaries for migratory birds traveling the Pacific Flyway. Pelicans, cormorants, and great egrets make these islands their seasonal home.
Children's Fairyland
Since 1950
Nestled on the lake's northern shore, this beloved storybook park inspired Walt Disney when he visited in 1954 — planting the seeds of imagination that would eventually become Disneyland.
Vibrant Culture
3.4-Mile Loop
Oakland's 3.4-mile perimeter path pulses with life — weekend drum circles, spontaneous salsa dancing, dragon boat races, kayakers, and joggers sharing the path in joyful community celebration.
The 3.4-Mile Loop
Click a pin to discover a landmark
3,400 Lights
Around the Lake
Each evening, Lake Merritt is ringed by 3,400 globe lights illuminating the entire 3.4-mile perimeter — a beloved Oakland landmark and the origin of the lake's poetic name, The Living Necklace.