Overview

Claremont straddles the Berkeley and Oakland borders in the foothills, featuring lush landscaping, curving streets hugging canyon hillsides, and abundant open space. The neighborhood is characterized by grand, expensive homes in various architectural styles and proximity to significant parks and natural areas. The iconic Claremont Resort and Hotel anchors the area as a major regional destination.

History and Character

The neighborhood developed around the Claremont Resort and Hotel, with large estates and manor homes becoming the dominant building type. The area’s appeal lies in its hilltop location, views, and connection to nature. Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve and surrounding open spaces provide a sense of separation from the urban core while remaining close to Berkeley’s amenities. The neighborhood’s character balances exclusivity with natural beauty and public access to regional parks.

Main Streets and Boundaries

Claremont Avenue is the primary thoroughfare, running through the neighborhood’s center. The neighborhood extends from roughly Ashby Avenue on the south to Grizzly Peak Road on the north, and from College Avenue on the west to the Berkeley-Oakland border on the east. Curving, tree-lined residential streets follow the topography, creating a village-like atmosphere within the hills.

What to See

The Claremont Resort and Hotel is a vast Victorian structure on 22 acres in the hills, featuring three outdoor pools, 10 tennis courts, a full-service spa, a fitness club, and three onsite restaurants. Though primarily a resort destination, the grounds offer glimpses of turn-of-the-century architecture and Bay Area elegance. Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve offers 208 acres of open space with trails and panoramic views. Trails reward ambitious hikers with views of San Francisco Bay.

Where to Eat and Shop

Dining options center on the Claremont Resort, which includes three restaurants. The neighborhood’s hillside location makes it more residential than commercial. College Avenue to the west provides nearby shopping and dining options. Most residents and visitors access shopping and dining in adjacent neighborhoods rather than within Claremont proper.

Getting There

The Claremont neighborhood is best accessed by car. AC Transit provides limited bus service to the area. The neighborhood’s hillside elevation and spread-out character make it less pedestrian-accessible than downtown Berkeley, though BART stations provide regional transit connections for those without cars.

Parking

Parking is available at the Claremont Resort and Hotel, as well as on residential streets. Street parking throughout the neighborhood is generally easy to find, as the area is less dense than commercial districts. The neighborhood is suited to car access, and most destinations require driving or parking and walking.