Have you lived in the Bay Area forever and are wondering why you never heard of (or went to) Marina Bay in Richmond, near Point Richmond?
More importantly, are you thinking how can you get into Marina Bay and figure out which is the best community for you?
Me too!
Marina Bay is a collection of housing communities each with its own character and charm. Nestled on the shores of Richmond, California and the Richmond Harbor, Marina Bay is a planned neighborhood renowned for its stunning waterfront views, rich history, and vibrant community life.
It also is known as a place to buy a relatively affordable condo as a starter home or to downsize, near the Bay — or live the dream of having Bay views at, again, a relatively affordable price.
Commuting from Marina Bay is easy thanks to its location next to 580 which connects to 80 and BART stations nearby in Richmond and El Cerrito. Marina Bay is just a few minutes from the Richmond Bridge to San Rafael, 101 to San Francisco and all points north such as Wine Country and Mendocino!
Marina Bay was developed largely in the 1980s to offer a unique living experience to suit every preference. Beyond the diverse residential options, the area’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and strong sense of community make Marina Bay a truly special place to call home whether full time, as a weekend pied-a-terre or as a long-term rental investment.
This part of Richmond, once pivotal in America’s World War II shipbuilding efforts, has transformed into a peaceful, picturesque residential and recreational haven by the Bay — along with a ferry to San Francisco right at the waterfront.
A visit to the Rosie the Riveter Home Front Museum is a great way to discover this area. The museum sits alongside a long waterfront trail that winds around the Marina Bay communities.
With all of the residents I have met in Marina Bay, the feedback among residents has been unanimous:
- I love it here.
- There is such great community.
- It feels so safe.
- Marina Bay offers carefree living with everything I need.
Here you will get an idea the different communities within Marina Bay that cater to a diverse array of lifestyles, budgets and preferences. The gated communities are a security gate away from the waterfront trail!
Explore Marina Bay Condos, Townhouses and Houses For Sale
Let’s go tour Marina Bay since it’s even more wonderful in person!
Affordable Marina Bay Condos and Townhouse Options
1 – 2 Bedroom Ground Floor & Top Floor Condos on Bayside Court
What’s confusing about the Marina Bay development is that there is a specific HOA named “Marina Bay,” with brown-shingled, 2-story condominiums with a lower single-level condo unit and an upper unit. Both units have lovely patios with different views, from water to parking lot (for a lot less $!)
Bayside Court off of Marina Bay Parkway is how you get to the Marina Bay community, which has its own home owners association (HOA).
Amenities in Marina Bay gated community include hot tubs, pools, a gym, club house, a community garden, assigned parking space and guest parking. Here’s the full list of amenities.
The Anchorage at Marina Bay
The Anchorage, off of Marina Bay Parkway at Jetty Drive, stands as a close-knit community, offering residents unparalleled access to the Marina’s breathtaking views and a host of nautical activities such as the Tradewinds Sailing school. Perfect for boating enthusiasts and those who find tranquility in the ebb and flow of the tides, (The Richmond boat launch is nearby!)
The Anchorage provides a blend of luxury and leisure. The homes here are typically several level townhouses in a town-like setting. are designed to maximize the scenic vistas, ensuring that the beauty of the Bay is never more than a glance away, or at least a short walk away.
Cove, The Beach (along Commodore Drive) at Marina Bay
A gated condo community with all the recreational amenities you could want — pool, hot tub, gym, and the great waterfront outdoors.
The Shores at Marina Bay – Condos on the Inner Harbor
Characterized by its tranquil ponds, fountains, and lush landscaping, The Shores is Marina Bay’s oasis of calm. Especially if you are lucky enough to buy one of the Bay and harbor-view condos. In 2023, a 1-bedroom Shores condo with panoramic bay views from its patio sold for just over $500,000. Retirement living in the Bay Area has never looked so good!
The Shores Marina Bay condo community is designed around the concept of harmony with nature, offering peaceful residences that serve as sanctuaries for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Many of the townhouses have picket fences and gardens in front. Such a sweet place to sit as you watch the boats and walkers exercising on the Bay path.
The Shores is particularly appealing to those who value privacy and serenity, with amenities that support a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle close to the harbor and walking paths. There are carports vs. the enclosed private garages you get at the single-family homes.
Condos and townhouses in Marina Bay communities are slightly more inland than the waterfront single-family house communities although some have spectacular harbor views. Get in touch for the latest market report and for help with your home search or sale.
Marina Bay Single-Family Homes in Gated Communities
Sunset Pointe at Marina Bay – The Best SF Bay View Homes
Some of the most spectacular Bay view homes in the Bay Area are found at Sunset Pointe at Marina Bay Richmond. The name of the development says it all: the homes were strategically built at a point on the Bay. If you have been looking at Bay view houses in Marin or other parts of the Bay, you may be surprised and delighted at what you can get at a fraction of the price at Sunset Pointe.
Breakers at Marina Bay – Oceanfront Single-Family Homes With Low HOA Fees
Breakers is a testament to modern architectural excellence, offering a dynamic and stylish living experience. This community appeals to young professionals and families looking for a blend of contemporary design, convenience, and an active social scene. The well-designed detached homes feature lots of light and 2-car garages,
The homes on the Bay feature unobstructed views of crashing waters with the San Francisco skyline in the distance. Fans of the Netflix show Grace & Frankie will relate to the patio lifestyle overlooking the water with nothing but the Bay trail in front of you.
Promontory at Marina Bay – Detached Homes a Short Walk to the Bay
For those seeking a gated single-family home by the Bay, Promontory is a great option. This friendly community of detached homes with garages offers more affordable prices in the interior of the community (without bay views) along with a few homes offering breathtaking water views. The home layouts are perfect for working at home and for families, with lovely outdoor patios off the living spaces.
Promontory at Marina Bay’s location off of Bayside is ideal for those seeking a quiet, upscale living experience, the peace-of-mind of a security gate, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
As you can see, the single family home communities at Marina Bay are located where prime real estate features water views. The homes that don’t have water views can sell for much less than those with Bay views or Harbor views. Get in touch for the latest listings and sales information.
Marina Bay FAQs
Is it safe for an investor to buy a Marina Bay property remotely without seeing it in person?
Answer: Yes but it is better to ask a local Realtor to visit the Marina Bay condo or house for sale to do a video tour and to see what the location is like. Some locations get more sun or more noise than others. Especially if a property seems like a “good deal” you want to have a buyer’s agent investigate if it really is a great opportunity or if there’s a reason the property has not been selling.
I am downsizing and have way too much stuff to live in a small condo at Marina Bay.
I feel your pain! Luckily there is an Extra Space storage facility alongside Marina Bay. (Talk about visionary, whoever owns that location!)
How do I decide which Marina Bay community is right for me?
Answer: There is no substitute for having your top home goals in mind. What are your must-haves on this list?
- Views of water, whether a fountain or the bay (or do you not mind the view as long as it costs less?)
- One-level, ground-floor living (or are stairs ok?)
- An enclosed garage (or is a carport ok?)
- Recreational amenities such as pools, a gym, etc. (or do you not need these?)
- Gated community (or do you not mind if it isn’t gated?)
Now, what is your budget?
With your answers in mind, get in touch to discuss which communities you might love!
Is Marina Bay a good place to buy and hold property as an investment?
Many investors have bought units at Marina Bay as long-term rental properties or have bought condos to live in then rented them out after moving. Do Marina Bay properties appreciate like single-family houses and condos in other places? Maybe, maybe not, and sometimes. A 2005 SF Gate article quotes prices on the Marina Bay 1- and 2-bedroom condos at $295,000 and $395,000 for the larger units. In 2024 prices are about 50% higher, plus or minus depending on the condition and if the units have been updated.
What Marina Bay offers is a peaceful, community-oriented place for retirement living, solo buyers such as single women, and those who love life by the water and outdoor activities. I love the community!
Learn all about exploring and living at Marina Bay
- Marina Bay Neighborhood Council – Get an idea of how well run Marina Bay is by locals who make sure that Marina Bay is a thriving, safe, enjoyable place to live. (The City of Richmond has councils for each neighborhood!)
- Marina Bay Public Art – Explore the neighborhood by visiting Marina Bay’s public art sites.
- Richmond Marina Bay trail guide for outdoors lovers
- Point Richmond / Marina Bay breweries and brew pubs — Don’t miss Armistice Brewing and East Brothers Beer
- Richmond Ferry to San Francisco
- Modern Guide to Richmond — Food, Culture, Activities, by 7×7
