Berkeley

Monkey Island Park, Berkeley Neighborhood

Claremont is a calm neighborhood known for its convenient access to several transportation options, including multiple nearby bus lines and reasonable support for cycling. Residents find it easy to complete daily errands thanks to a strong concentration of local businesses, grocery stores, and restaurants or cafes throughout the area. The neighborhood features primarily single detached homes with a variety of three- and four-bedroom layouts, showcasing charming architecture from earlier decades. Educational facilities such as primary and secondary schools are consistently close to residential areas. Although there are no parks within Claremont itself, pleasant public green spaces are readily reachable in neighboring areas.

Claremont offers a slower-paced ambience and will appeal to home buyers who enjoy spending time outdoors. Although this area does not contain any public green spaces, parks are well-situated in nearby neighborhoods, which makes it very easy to get to them. This part of Berkeley is reasonably quiet overall, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor - however noise can be problematic closer to the railway line.

Highlights of Monkey Island Park

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Monkey Island Park

A unique pocket park on Allston Way, Monkey Island Park is beloved by local families for its playful statues and shady trees, making it a charming destination for picnics and casual gatherings within a walkable residential enclave.

🏫 Washington Elementary School

Located just a couple blocks north on Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Washington Elementary serves as the heart of family life in the neighborhood, known for its engaging green playground and active community involvement.

🍽️ Berkeley Bowl West

A short walk away, Berkeley Bowl West on Heinz Avenue is an iconic local grocer famous for its vast organic produce selection and food court, drawing neighbors and foodies from throughout the area.

🛒 Grove Park Farmers' Market

Held seasonally at nearby Grove Park on Martin Luther King Jr. Way, this vibrant farmers’ market offers fresh local produce, artisanal snacks, and a chance to meet neighborhood growers every weekend.

🚴 9th Street Bicycle Boulevard

The 9th Street Bicycle Boulevard, running directly west of Monkey Island Park, provides a safe, family-friendly route for cyclists and walkers and connects the community to other parts of Berkeley.

Monkey Island Park

This July in Monkey Island Park

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

Saturday, July 25, 2026

North Shattuck Block Party

North Shattuck & Rose Street, Berkeley, CA • 11:00 AM–6:00 PM

Just a short distance from Monkey Island Park, this free, all-ages street festival offers live music, artisan vendors, local food, drinks, and family-friendly lawn games—perfect for a summer afternoon close to home.

Friday, July 10, 2026

Movies in the Park – "Smurfs"

San Pablo Park, Berkeley, CA • 8:40 PM–11:00 PM

An outdoor, family-friendly movie screening under the stars at nearby San Pablo Park, ideal for residents of Monkey Island Park looking for a relaxed evening outing.

Thursday, July 23, 2026

The Itals Live in Berkeley

Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center, Berkeley, CA • 7:30 PM–11:30 PM

Catch legendary reggae group The Itals at iconic Ashkenaz, a vibrant night of roots reggae and community culture just a short trip from Monkey Island Park.

Sunday, July 5, 2026

Overpass Visibility Brigade: Bridge of Solidarity

I‑80 Overpass at University Ave, Berkeley, CA • 3:30 PM–5:00 PM

This local community action event invites residents to display messages of solidarity from the overpass—a meaningful, locally impactful gathering near Monkey Island Park.

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Downtown Berkeley Farmers’ Market

Center St & MLK Jr Way, Berkeley, CA • 10:00 AM–2:30 PM

Kick off the holiday with fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal goods at the lively farmers’ market, conveniently within reach for Monkey Island Park neighbors.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Monkey Island Park

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Monkey Island Park

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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