At-a-Glance

Although his father had purchased the land that is modern-day Orinda in 1897, Edward Ignacio de Laveaga didn’t establish the town until the early 1920s.

The opening of the Caldecott Tunnel in 1937 brought unprecedented access to Oakland and San Francisco. Over the years, Orinda would enjoy steady but gentle growth as one of the most desirable places to live outside of the City.

In a Few Words

Kid-friendly, easy commute access

Living Here

With its extensive network of trails for bikers and hikers, close proximity to San Pablo Reserve, Lafayette Reservoir, and Tilden and Briones Regional Park, Orinda is a honey pot for Bay Area locals who love the outdoors.

And when it’s time for other activities, like shopping, dining, and socializing, Orinda delivers.

A walk through the center of the city brings you to Orinda Books, Orinda Theatre Square, Bruns Ampitheater (home to the California Shakespeare Theater), ReChic Boutique 101, and a variety of Burmese, Mediterranean, Italian, Thai and American restaurants that cater to every culinary preference.

Good-to-Know

The city of Orinda was named for Englishwoman and 17th century poet, Katherine Fowler Philips, aka, “The Matchless Orinda.” Because his wife was a huge fan of her poetry, Orinda county sheriff and landowner, William Walker Camron, named their home “Orinda Park” in Philips’ honor.

Why Orinda?

For those who make their home here, it’s all about Orinda’s excellent schools, temperate climate, family-friendly, semi-rural country living, and easy access to San Francisco.