Thousand Oaks

Thousand Oaks somehow flies under the radar for many, despite it being a simply gorgeous part of Berkeley. With its location in the hills, adjacent to Cragmont, Tilden Park and Berkeley Hills, it is a well-designed community that combines winding roads with a potpourri of favorite architectural styles. In addition to the classic bungalows, there are Tudor and Spanish Revival homes. It’s a heavily treed area that has both walkable sidewalks and some lovely parks. It’s also known for its stunning granite rock outcroppings - they’ve been incorporated into landscaping and city parks beautifully. 

The community is a mix of ages, with families, professionals, and retirees. Thousand Oaks Elementary is part of the District, and families love the convenience of activities and outdoor opportunities. Area parks include the climbing-oriented Indian Rock Park (again, thanks to the rock outcroppings in the area), John Hinkel Park, with hiking and play areas among the oak groves, and the Albany Pool, which has an indoor heated pool and an outdoor facility. The Thousand Oaks district is very pedestrian-friendly, with wide streets and lots of trails. 

A great variety of retail shops and restaurants lies along Solano Avenue, which marks the southern edge of Thousand Oaks. Residents are able to enjoy a diverse range of restaurants, as well as any number of coffee shops. Solano is a shopping destination, charming and filled with all sorts of art galleries and boutiques. It’s an easy way to spend an afternoon in a practically perfect Berkeley suburb.