Waterfront Picnics in Benicia
Welcome to the ultimate guide for waterfront picnics in Benicia. With sweeping views of the Carquinez Strait, refreshing breezes, and lush green parks, Benicia is the perfect destination to lay out a blanket and enjoy a meal by the water.
The Best Scenic Spots
From rugged shoreline trails to manicured lawns right off downtown, Benicia offers a variety of stunning backdrops.
Benicia State Recreation Area (Dillon Point)
Looking for a rugged, scenic, and isolated picnic? The rocky outcrops and sweeping vistas of Dillon Point provide a dramatic backdrop for a romantic or quiet lunch.
First Street Green
The ultimate convenience spot. Located right at the foot of First Street, this lush green lawn is mere steps away from downtown restaurants. Grab some takeout and you're instantly ready to relax with views of the water and boats sailing by.
Marina Green
A quiet, expansive grassy area located near the marina. It's slightly more removed from the bustle of First Street, offering plenty of space for families to spread out and play.
Alvarez Ninth Street Park
A local favorite featuring a sandy beach, a fantastic pirate ship playground for the kids, and built-in picnic tables with BBQs. Perfect for a full afternoon outing.
Perfect Picnic Provisions
Leave the meal prep at home! Benicia's downtown eateries offer incredible options that travel perfectly from the counter to your picnic blanket.
One House Bakery
World-class sandwiches built on freshly baked artisan breads, amazing salads, and pastries that will elevate any picnic.
The Workshop
A fantastic Cajun/Creole takeout window. Their authentic po'boys and fried fish baskets are easy to carry and incredibly delicious.
Got Plate Lunch
Hearty, authentic Hawaiian plates. We highly recommend the loco moco and the kalua tots! The mac salad and tender meats travel flawlessly to the park and are perfect for a satisfying outdoor feast.
The Majestic Cafe
A great spot featuring Double Rainbow ice cream. Pro tip: grab an affogato for a sophisticated, caffeinated picnic treat!
Coffee & Morning Picnics
For an early start, grab a world-class caffeinated boost at States Coffee or Drift before heading to the water.
Pro Tips & Etiquette
The Wind Factor
Benicia can get very drafty in the afternoon as the delta breeze kicks in. Bring layers, or plan a morning/mid-day picnic!
Sun Protection
The waterfront can be surprisingly sunny with little shade depending on the spot. Pack sunscreen and hats.
Trash & Facilities
Pack it in, pack it out. There are public restrooms available near the First Street Green and at Alvarez Ninth Street Park.
Top 5 Picnic Combos
- 1
The Classic First Street
A One House Bakery sandwich on the First Street Green, watching the ships pass by.
- 2
The Southern Sunset
A po'boy from The Workshop taken to the Marina Green right as the sun starts to set.
- 3
The Affogato Afternoon
An affogato from The Majestic Cafe enjoyed on a bench near the waterfront.
- 4
The Family Beach Day
Got Plate Lunch at the Alvarez Ninth Street Park picnic tables while the kids play on the pirate ship.
- 5
The Morning Hiker
Drift coffee and a pastry enjoyed at Dillon Point in the State Recreation Area before the wind picks up.