
Shoreline Lake Park Mountain View
A vibrant park featuring a lake with boat rentals, scenic trails, and family-friendly activities, offering a perfect outdoor escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier rentals

Shoreline Lake Park Mountain View
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier rentals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant park featuring a lake with boat rentals, scenic trails, and family-friendly activities, offering a perfect outdoor escape.
"This is one of the best family parks in the Bay Area with so much to offer for everyone."

🎯 Rent a Paddle Boat
Hourly rentals for 4-seater paddle boats are around $35. Great for families!
👟 Stroller & Bike Friendly
The flat trails around the lake are perfect for strollers and bikes.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boat Rentals on the Lake
Shoreline Lake
Paddle boats, kayaks, and pedal boats offer a fun way to explore the water with family and friends.

Scenic Walking & Biking Trails
Shoreline Park
Flat, stroller-friendly paths wind around the lake and connect to the Bay Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Victorian House Museum
Shoreline Park
Explore local history at this charming museum, offering a glimpse into the area's past.

Sunset Views
Shoreline Lake
The lake provides a stunning backdrop for breathtaking sunsets, a truly magical experience.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Secure Rentals
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rent a Paddle Boat
Hourly rentals for 4-seater paddle boats are around $35. Great for families!
👟 Stroller & Bike Friendly
The flat trails around the lake are perfect for strollers and bikes.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While there are some shaded areas, many spots are exposed. Bring sunscreen and hats!
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The lake offers stunning sunset views, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rent a Paddle Boat
Hourly rentals for 4-seater paddle boats are around $35. Great for families!
👟 Stroller & Bike Friendly
The flat trails around the lake are perfect for strollers and bikes.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While there are some shaded areas, many spots are exposed. Bring sunscreen and hats!
📸 Sunset Photo Ops
The lake offers stunning sunset views, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
🚗 Event Parking Alert
For Shoreline Amphitheatre events, avoid standard parking to save hours on exit.
🪁 Kite Surfing & More
Plenty of open space for kite surfing, biking, and other outdoor activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Shoreline Lake Park's beauty and diverse activities, highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic trails. While generally loved, some note that shaded areas can be limited during peak summer heat and parking can be challenging during major events.
"Beautiful park at all times of day! this is my new favorite park, and its really clean, as well as having beautiful terrain and great views! really happy that i came here a couple times during the summer with family. 5/5 would recommend and would come here again!"
Andrew
"WOW I Absolutely Love this Shoreline Park!!!
Very Happy that We Finally had a chance to come checked this place out for the first time. Such a beautiful day!!! Lovely Sunshines!!! There are many indoor and outdoor activities here for all ages! Bird Watching, bicycling, dog walking, Golf Club, Dining, Windsurfing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Tennis, Touring, and so much more!!! I definitely enjoy the tour of the Mansion, walking around the Trails, and the beautiful boathouse. Gorgeous Clear blue Sky!!! Summer is not over yet! I am definitely coming back to check out the restaurants here and do other activities as well. 08/20/2025🔥"
Thia Le
"Beautiful and clean park with numerous water and outdoor activities for the family. You can rent paddle boats or kayaks by the hour as well as a half day rate. I often see couples on tandems bicycles. There is small park area with climbing devices for the kids. There is a walking and biking trail that takes you around the lake and eventually connects to Bay Land bike trail. The grass area has trees and is shaded. Due to the area being manicured and well kept people often picnic at the park. Numerous benches to simply sit down and enjoy the views and weather."
Brandon Hudson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shoreline Lake Park is located in Mountain View, CA. It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Public transportation options are also available, though may require a short walk or bus transfer from the nearest stops. For those attending events at the Shoreline Amphitheatre, be aware of potential traffic and parking challenges.
Yes, Shoreline Lake Park offers free parking. However, on weekends and during special events, parking lots can fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early if you plan to visit during peak times.
Absolutely! Shoreline Park is connected to the Bay Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists. There are bike racks available, and the trails are well-maintained for a pleasant ride.
While direct public transport to the park's entrance might be limited, you can reach the general vicinity via VTA buses. From there, it's a short walk or a connecting bus ride to the park. Check VTA schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
To avoid traffic, especially if heading to the Shoreline Amphitheatre, consider arriving well before your event or exploring alternative parking options, such as parking further away and walking or taking a shuttle if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shoreline Lake Park itself is free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees for general park access. Costs are associated with specific activities like boat rentals or golf.
Boat rentals, such as paddle boats, kayaks, and pedal boats, typically cost around $35 per hour for a 4-seater paddle boat. Prices can vary, so it's best to check with the boathouse for current rates.
While not always mandatory, booking boat rentals in advance is recommended, especially on busy weekends or holidays, to ensure availability. Popular times can see rentals booked out.
Information on discounts for boat rentals is not widely publicized. It's advisable to inquire directly with the Shoreline Lake Boathouse about any potential offers or package deals.
The park grounds are generally open from sunrise to sunset. Specific facilities like the boathouse and museum have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Shoreline Lake Park website for the most current information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Shoreline Lake Park offers a wide range of activities including boat rentals (kayaks, paddle boats, pedal boats), walking and biking on scenic trails, bird watching, picnicking, and visiting the Victorian House Museum. There's also a golf course and areas for kite surfing.
Yes, it's a very family-friendly park! There's a dedicated play area with a sailboat-themed structure and a sandpit. The flat trails are great for strollers, and boat rentals provide fun for all ages.
The trails around Shoreline Lake are generally flat and well-maintained, making them stroller-friendly and accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility aids.
Visitors often spot various bird species, including ducks and geese. You might also see jackrabbits and wildflowers, especially during certain seasons.
Absolutely! Shoreline Lake Park has numerous benches and grassy areas perfect for picnics. It's a popular spot for families and groups to enjoy a meal outdoors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located at the Shoreline Lake Boathouse. Visitors also mention dining at the Google Visitor Experience Center cafe nearby as an alternative.
The restaurant at the boathouse typically offers casual dining options suitable for park visitors. It's a convenient spot to grab a bite after enjoying activities on the lake.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged and a popular activity at Shoreline Lake Park. There are many scenic spots to set up your picnic blanket.
While the park has its own dining options, the nearby Google Visitor Experience Center has a cafe that visitors have recommended for lunch.
Park regulations regarding alcohol consumption can vary. It's advisable to check the official Shoreline Lake Park rules or signage upon arrival to ensure compliance.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, especially during sunrise and sunset, offers stunning photographic opportunities with beautiful reflections. The trails, wildlife, and the Victorian House Museum also provide great subjects.
Yes, Shoreline Lake is renowned for its spectacular sunsets. The vibrant colors reflecting on the water create a magical and picturesque scene, making it a favorite for photographers.
Certainly! The park is home to various bird species and other small wildlife. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals while taking photos.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blue sky can also be appealing for certain shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Cyclists
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
❤️ Couples & Relaxed Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Shoreline Lake by Water
Hourly rentals are available, with paddle boats typically costing around $35 for a four-seater. This makes it an accessible and enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. Paddling on the calm waters of the lake is a peaceful experience, and it's a great way to get some light exercise while taking in the scenic views.
Remember to check the boathouse operating hours, as they can vary seasonally. On busy days, especially weekends, rentals can be in high demand, so arriving early or considering a weekday visit can help ensure you get your desired boat.
Trails for Every Walker and Rider
A significant portion of the trail system connects to the larger Bay Trail, offering extended routes for those looking for a longer excursion. The loop around Shoreline Lake itself provides lovely views of the water, abundant birdlife, and the distant cityscape. It's a popular route for both locals and tourists seeking outdoor recreation.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and the occasional jackrabbit. The trails are also ideal for capturing scenic photos, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Family Fun at Shoreline Park
Beyond the playground, the availability of boat rentals makes for an exciting family outing. Renting a paddle boat allows the whole family to enjoy the lake together, creating lasting memories. The flat, accessible trails are also perfect for family walks or bike rides, allowing everyone to explore at their own pace.
Picnicking is another favorite family activity here, with plenty of open grassy areas and benches. It's a wonderful place to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors together, making it a highly recommended spot for a family day out.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit