Welcome to Oakley
Fall in love with the family-centered heartbeat of Contra County, a young city ready to blossom into a suburban oasis
Ample housing and a strong school system are ingrained into the identity of Oakley, a town located on the shores of The Delta that’s perfected the quintessential small-town vibe. Family life takes precedence over all else in Oakley, and yet even still the city is able to remain cosmopolitan-feeling due to its upscale eats and sophisticated attitudes.
Oakley is one of California’s youngest cities and wasn’t incorporated until 1999. Rolling fields and plentiful vineyards help the town remain multi-faceted, a blend of the suburb, country, and urban environments. Its waterfront position allows for a laid-back lifestyle, and those who appreciate the great outdoors will also appreciate the town’s bounty of surrounding parks, green space, and preserves.
Hushed cul-de-sacs and esteemed gated communities harbor the lavish, single-family homes of Oakley, set on comfortable lots. Picture-perfect, executive abodes are the norm in Oakley, and the town’s relative newness means both that homes are outfitted in the latest luxurious, and also that there are plenty of options ready for those looking to build a custom home.
What to Love
- Perched right on the Delta for a boating and waterfront lifestyle
- Less than an hour away from cultural meccas like Berkeley and Oakland
- Saturated in vineyards and wineries
Local Lifestyle
Community is the lifeblood of Oakley, evidenced by its pristinely maintained city amenities, convenient shopping centers, community housing associations, and a packed calendar of city events — many of which benefit charity. It’s a place for kids to explore and grow right alongside their parents, a place where those of all ages can enjoy the abundance of nature around them.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Spanish-inspired, red-tiled roofs top the buildings of charismatic Downtown Oakley, an immaculate commercial area packed with independent boutiques, thrift shops, and incredible eats. Pressed along the town’s thriving but serene Main Street, an impressive lineup of restaurants awaits exploration.
Black Bear Diner is a familiar favorite for most NorCal residents, and the Oakley location delights even the pickiest eaters with its selection of delicious comfort foods. The restaurant is best known for its hearty breakfasts, which can range from massive, fluffy pancakes smothered in syrup to healthful omelet choices.
At the locally-owned
La Costa Taqueria, the sizzling fajitas and fresh, authentic flavors of Mexico draw in crowds on any day of the week. Situated on the edge of Downtown Oakley and set inside a recently restored, historic building,
Bistro Punahele Tonnelier is referred to by locals as simply, “Oakley Bistro,” and dishes out creative American cuisine updated with a unique blend of French and Hawaiian influences.
Things to Do
As with many small towns, community-run events are the highlight of the social calendar in Oakley. Quirky celebrations are common, too, such as the distinctive
Oakley Almond Festival which is the biggest event in the city. The festival is produced by the Oakley Chamber of Commerce and includes live music, vendor booths, wonderful foods, and even commemorative t-shirts for attendees.
The Oakley Fishing Derby is an event for the kids, and participants range from ages 2-15. Tots and teens head out to the town’s open fishing areas and ponds to find their own fresh catches, then submit a photo to the city for the contest. The annual
Harvest Festival, alternatively, is an event for everyone and is held at the Civic Center Plaza near Main Street. Fall and Halloween-themed, the festival includes costume contests, crafts, games, and nearly 40 vendors for food and wares.
Outdoor recreation and socialization on a smaller scale are available through the presence of
Emerson Ranch Park. Bragging picnic spaces, immaculate walking paths, and a tranquil pond, the park is a boon for families and individuals alike.
Schools
Oakley is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include those within the Oakley Union School District:
- Almond Grove Elementary School, K-5, well-rated public elementary school
- O’Hara Park Middle School, 6-8, well-rated public middle school
