Welcome to Orinda
A tranquil lifestyle is easy and comfortable in this California countryside haven.
The city of Orinda is a semi-rural gem situated east of Berkeley. Lush green hillsides frame the charming downtown and residents enjoy a quieter lifestyle than their citybound neighbors. Waking up in the morning to the sounds of nature, gorgeous views, and spacious home is just a sneak peek of the life you could lead as a local in Orinda. The city is named in honor of the poet and translator Katherine Philips, who was also known by the nickname of the “Matchless Orinda.”
The region is home to multiple microclimates, with a few common qualities. Summers in this section of the Contra Costa County are warm and dry, with average highs of 77 degrees. Temperatures are comfortable throughout the summer, perfect for partaking in all of your favorite outdoor recreational activities. The winter brings cooler temperatures, more rain, and ways to see the local green spaces and large parks in a different setting.
What to Love
- Remote and peaceful atmosphere
- Great commute location with easy access to Oakland, San Francisco, and Walnut Creek
- Suburban
Local Lifestyle
Living in Orinda offers residents the feeling of living in a small town, with small boutique shops and local eateries which welcome you with a smile. The hillsides blanketed in trees transport you to another time as you walk down the street. Pools and parks are at your fingertips! Hike, bike, climb, and explore the beautiful California countryside each day.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Though Orinda is fairly new as a city, there’s a piece of history that is still alive and well, the Orinda Theater. Architect Alexander Aimwell Cantin designed this treasure of a building before it opened in 1941. The community has since rallied together to save it from demolition, preserve the buildings’ dignity, and allow further use for entertainment and enjoyment for generations to come. Every year, enjoy the California Independent Film Festival which occurs for a week inside the theater. Independent filmmakers and locals are invited to attend! The Orinda Theatre Square is home to the theater and a multitude of options for passing time in your day. These range from professional services, retail stores, and dining options. Shelby’s Restaurant uses local ingredients to create their French-Californian fusion dishes, including the braised short ribs in the red wine demiglace. Grab a drink and share some good conversation just a short walk away at the Fourth Bore taproom and grill.
Kids, teenagers, and adults catch a movie after dining at one of Orinda’s best local restaurants. Europa Hofbrau is less than a block away from the theater and has been a family-run establishment for more than 25 years. The freshly roasted meat produced at this European eatery is a perfect start to a lovely evening on the town. If you’re craving Italian, Casa Orinda and La Piazza are just a short walk away from the theater. For the past 89 years, Casa Orinda has served up some of the best scratch-made pasta, the best prime rib and best fried chicken you can find.
Things to Do
Orinda is located right next to the Siesta Valley Recreation Area, which provides ample opportunities to visit hiking trails, the seasonal open-air theater, and see the Bay Area from an entirely new angle. Every Saturday, walk through the Orinda Farmers Market and feast your eyes on the cheeses, honey, fresh fruits, and vegetables. The stands of local farmers are packed to the brim with fresh, healthy choices for you and your family. During the Summer, Tuesday evenings are reserved for Concerts in the Park. The Fourth of July Parade has taken place in Orinda every year since the early 1980s. It begins on the theater side of town and carries on for one mile.
Schools
Children attending school in Orinda have access to a high-quality education. All of the schools, both public and private, are excellently rated. The Orinda School District encompasses four elementary schools and one middle school. The public high school is covered by another district, the Acalanes Union High. Your student will be awarded an education that is amongst the best in California.
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Del Rey Elementary School, Grades K-5, Amongst the Top 30 Blue Ribbon Schools in California
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Miramonte High School, Grades 9-12, Amongst the 2021 Awardees of California Distinguished Schools