Overview
Restricted access by arrangement only. Call 1-888-327-2757, option 2 to make a reservation or visit EBParks.org/Register for the current schedule of trips.
Located off the Richmond Inner Harbor
(510) 544-3108
Toll Free: 888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757), option 3, extension 4510
Internet & Cellular Access
Park Activities
Located just off the Richmond Inner Harbor, this 373-acre island preserve in San Francisco Bay has a colorful history and provides wonderful views of the Bay Area from its 160' rocky peak.
Maps
Park Accessibility
The island is not accessible to wheelchair users at this time.
Attractions
The environmentally sensitive island is a marvelous bird sanctuary. Over 18 species of birds nest there, including Caspian Terns, Black-crowned Night Herons, gulls, and ducks. The island also supports an unusual variety of plant communities, including native Coastal Grassland that persists in a relatively undisturbed state. There is also a salt marsh and many acres of Northern Coastal Scrub. In spring, the wildflowers put on a colorful show.
- The Quietest Spot in San Francisco Bay - Atlas Obscura, January 9, 2020
Park Activities
Access to Brooks Island Regional Preserve is by reservation only. The Park District offers two kinds of naturalist-led kayak tours: "bring-your-own-boat" trips and outfitter-led trips. Telephone 1-888-EBPARKS (1-888-327-2757) or visit EBParks.org/Register for reservations or more information. Facilities on the island are minimal.
Tours and Trips
You may only access Brooks Island as part of a scheduled East Bay Regional Park District naturalist tour. Please call the Reservations Department at (888) 327-2757 (1-888-327-2757), option 2, or visit EBParks.org/Register for the current schedule of trips or to register for a tour. Program registration cuts off several days before each trip.
History
The island's original inhabitants were Ohlone Indians who lived there for thousands of years. Later, in the early 19th century, it became part of Rancho San Pablo. With the advent of European settlers, the island was used for sheep and cattle grazing, oyster-raising, and extensive quarrying. Over the years, Brooks Island has had many owners and has been known by a variety of names, including Isla de Carmen, Rocky Island, Bird Island, and Sheep Island. The East Bay Regional Park District acquired the island in 1968.