Shoreline Lake — Attraction in Mountain View

Two stars, because: easy access, free parking, beautiful lake and relatively affordable rentals. However, three stars knocked because (1) the lake is not big enough to truly relax while sailing, you basically are doing tacks every few minutes and (2) the sailing director here was not enjoyable to interact with, and arguably sexist.

You have to take a test to go out to sail, easy enough. I passed by a point or so, and he said, "I'm heavily questioning whether or not to let you go out" in 12 knots, gusting 16-18 knots. I have been coaching sailing for over 10 years at a variety of clubs across the country, I sailed for college and was invited to sail in the Olympic trials.

I understand if he was questioning a newcomer for the safety of his boats and our lives, but either let me go or tell me no. As a woman, the grilling and condescending conversation left a bad taste in my mouth, especially when sailing is such a male-dominated sport. I fully believe if I was a man and had passed that quiz, I wouldn't have been questioned. The sailing director warned me that I was "definitely going to capsize" and told me not to unfurl the jib. When I got off the dock, I wasn't even hiking - that's how NOT windy it was.

While sailing, our rudder was rigged over the line the boom moves across on the back of the boat, which is something that was part of the pre-rigging this club did for you. Since it was rigged incorrectly, it popped off and we had to sail with just our sails for awhile while I fixed it! I decided to unfurl the jib at one point, and the way the jib had been rigged caused it to get tangled, and I had to go up to the bow to fix it. All this to say: The yacht club that grilled me, insinuated I didn't know how to sail didn't even have their boats properly rigged and I had to fix them while on the water with other boaters. Even better, after all that, the rental card I was given gave me approval to sail in 14knts & below when the highest approval was approval for 15knts+ and that day was puffing 16-18knots. That was just a clear microaggression.

I have met my fair share of condescending male sailors, especially after sailing down south, but this was one of the most aggravating experiences I've had in awhile. Ladies, this is not a welcome place for women sailors. I'd take a longer drive to be treated fairly and kindly: check out Oakland gov sailing or Treasure Island...

Calling all bird watchers, bring the zoom camera attachments! A cozy bird estuary fragrant with the smell of bird poop and dried lake algae in some areas however the wind blows. Peacefully hike along the trail northward, but keep in mind, the return trip will feel much longer. Don't touch the giant hog weed and leave the bird nests alone. Dogs walking permitted and baby strollers recommended. Restaurants, golf course, lake boats, kids' boat play structure, sailing and windsurfing lessons can be had. Michaels Restaurant just a bit further has excellent fries and a full cocktail bar. The Shoreline Restaurant is an easy and delicious lunch. It can get very windy mid afternoons to evening. A promising place for sunsets and kite flying. Look up how this place was built and never...

This place has everything and all my heart - beautiful sunsets (I am sure sunrise too but never made it to one 😅), cafe, picnic spots, a long trail to walk, water activities, you can fly a kite and watch some friendly birds or you can just sit there calmly. Colorful windsurfing is a beautiful sight here. Most serene place I feel in the close proximity of the city. Good place for photography enthusiasts too. On the side note, they have paddle boats, kayaks etc available for rent. Separate bike paths are there. And there are benches across the park and trail to sit and relax. Parking lot here is...