The best cycling routes around Benicia

This is the historic core of Martinez, still showing carefully preserved traces from its early days of being a gold rush and shipping boom town — basically, a trading center for early settlers in this area.

A great little picnic spot along the George Miller Trail, named for a congressman who did a lot to support the the almost 200-mile system of paved recreation trails in this area.

The Benicia State Recreation Area entrance sits just off I780 and offers easy access to paved bike trails, marshland views, and shaded picnic spots. From here, you can connect to the Carquinez Scenic Drive or explore the wetlands along Southampton Bay. It’s a convenient launch point for a peaceful ride or walk through this tucked-away stretch of shoreline.

The Benicia Arsenal was established in 1849 on 345 acres of land east of the City and adjacent to the Carquinez Strait. The area was developed over a century of active military use with a variety of facility types including administrative and office buildings, storehouses, shops and residential quarters, as well as a hospital and port. In addition to the frame, brick, and stone structures built in the area between 1854 and 1911, many newer buildings were constructed during World War II. The Arsenal was deactivated in 1964 and the Defense Department transferred ownership to the City of Benicia in 1965. Today, the City retains ownership of several of the most historically significant structures, including the Commanding Officer's Quarters, the Clocktower building, the "Camel Barns", and one of the original powder magazines. The Arsenal is now characterized by older historic buildings, as well as studios, small professional offices, commercial and light industrial activities.

Built as home and office of Dr. John S. Moore in 1890. Known as the Borland House after 1900 when Moore’s daughter Emma and her husband, James H. Borland, owned it. Rented to businesses including a palm reader, in the 1930s. Acquired by the Contra Costa Community College District in 1948 and used for administrative offices until 1973. Became the Museum of the Martinez Historical Society in June of 1976. Housed in a small wooden Victorian, this charming little museum offers a collection of historical artifacts and photographs of old Martinez. It serves as a wonderful tribute to the town's history and its main industries, making it a fantastic place to explore and learn about the community's heritage. Excellent information on walking tours and city monuments on https://martinezhistory.org/tours/walking-tour

The Benicia-Martinez Bridge Trail offers a unique ride across the Carquinez Strait with dedicated bike and pedestrian lanes. It’s a smooth, paved path with great views of the water and passing ships. A solid link between Benicia and Martinez, especially if you’re piecing together a longer Bay Area loop.

Crockett is home to the California and Hawaiian Sugar Company refinery, which, at one time, employed 95% of Crockett residents. The town is nestled between the Carquinez Strait and steep coastal hills, boasting a charming downtown area that offers several independent restaurants, bars, and shops.

This charming little museum offers a collection of historical artifacts and photographs of old Martinez. It serves as a wonderful tribute to the town's history and its main industries, making it a fantastic place to explore and learn about the community's heritage.