Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve

East Bay’s hidden Eden, Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve was, once upon a time, a thriving naval base. The first, actually, in the West Coast. Fast-forward over one-hundred-years, and Mother Nature’s taken back her Vallejo Bay Peninsula. (Yes: Mare Island is, in fact a peninsula—and not an island.) Dotted with large-scale art installations—like Ghost Ship—Mare Island Preserved fennel swept hillsides are a sight to behold, especially underneath the soft yellows and stark organes afforded by the clear-sky sunsets that crown the 215-acre greenspace. Because the preserve only has built three campsites—two yurts and one tent-only site—you can rest assure you’ll have a chance to find some still, silent solace. Bathrooms and wash areas are located at the front of the entrance, to the left of the visitors center. (Some snack foods and drinks can be bought at the visitor center, should you realize you’re running low on sustenance.)