Alameda is the island. Oakland and Emeryville are the estuary and the bayfront. Richmond and Point Richmond are the San Pablo Bay version, with a ferry. Martinez, Pittsburg, and Antioch are working water farther in. Discovery Bay and Bethel Island are Delta docks, a different fantasy entirely.
Waterfront means wind, flood questions, and sometimes industry in the view. It also means the thing you moved to California for is outside, not on a calendar.
Towns
Inner East Bay
Alameda
An island of Victorians, beaches, and a main street that still works.
OpenInner East Bay
Oakland
The bridge lands here, and so does dinner.
OpenInner East Bay
Emeryville
A small bayfront city wedged between Oakland and the bridge.
OpenWest Contra Costa
Richmond
A working waterfront with a village hiding at Point Richmond.
OpenCentral Contra Costa
Martinez
The county seat, John Muir’s house, and a working marina.
OpenDelta & East County
Discovery Bay
A Delta town built around waterways and docks.
OpenDelta & East County
Antioch
A Delta city at the end of the BART line.
Open