Kid-friendly places in Castro Valley

Castro Valley's free summer splash park: multiple water play structures over a padded surface sized right for toddlers getting their toes wet. The Tri-Valley-heat escape hatch off Lake Chabot Road.

Castro Valley's family restaurant in the literal name: breakfast through dinner, a kids menu, and portions that assume you brought your appetite. The reliable weeknight answer on Castro Valley Blvd.

Pedal boats, rowboats, kayaks and Duffy boats for rent at the marina, a lakeside café, and more than 20 miles of trails.