Tara Hills, CA
County: Contra Costa
History
Tara Hills is a small community located in Contra Costa County, California, in the San Francisco Bay Area. The history of Tara Hills dates back to the early 20th century when the area was primarily used for agriculture.
Originally, the land was part of the incorporated town of San Pablo, which was founded in 1948. However, due to a variety of reasons, including the desire for better local governance, Tara Hills residents decided to secede from San Pablo and form their own community.
In the 1950s, the residents of Tara Hills voted to establish an unincorporated association called the Tara Hills Association. This association was created to provide services and infrastructure to the community, such as road maintenance, street lighting, and park development.
Over the years, Tara Hills has remained a close-knit community with a distinctive suburban feel. The area has seen some residential growth and development, but it has largely maintained its small-town charm.
Today, Tara Hills is known for its scenic views of the San Francisco Bay and its abundance of parks and open spaces. It has a mixture of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, providing a diverse range of housing options.
Tara Hills also benefits from its convenient location, with easy access to major highways, including Interstate 80, connecting it to nearby cities such as San Francisco, Berkeley, and Oakland.
Despite its independent community spirit, Tara Hills remains unincorporated and is not recognized as an official city. Instead, it continues to operate under the governance of Contra Costa County.
In recent years, Tara Hills has faced some challenges, including issues related to infrastructure and public services. However, the community remains resilient and committed to preserving its unique character and quality of life.
Attractions
Although Tara Hills, CA is a small residential area in Contra Costa County, there are a few attractions and points of interest nearby. Here are a few you might want to visit:
Tilden Regional Park
Located just a short drive away, Tilden Regional Park offers beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, a botanical garden, a lake for swimming, a merry-go-round, and even a small farm with animals. It's a great place for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.
Wildcat Canyon Regional Park
Another nearby park, Wildcat Canyon offers more hiking trails and stunning views of the Bay Area. It features a variety of flora and fauna, picnic areas, and opportunities for horseback riding and mountain biking.
San Pablo Lytton Casino
If you’re interested in gambling, San Pablo Lytton Casino is a short drive from Tara Hills. It offers slot machines, card games, and occasionally hosts live entertainment.
Golden Gate Fields
Located in nearby Albany, Golden Gate Fields is a horse racing track where you can enjoy a day at the races. It offers both live racing events and satellite wagering.
Berkeley Marina
Just a few miles away, Berkeley Marina is a great place to enjoy scenic views of the San Francisco Bay, go boating or kayaking, or take a stroll along the marina. It also offers various waterfront restaurants and cafes.
Note that Tara Hills itself is primarily a residential area with limited attractions, but these nearby locations provide opportunities for entertainment and recreation.
Climate
Tara Hills, California, is located in Contra Costa County, within the San Francisco Bay Area. As a part of this region, it experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild and relatively wet winters, and warm and dry summers.
In the winter months, from December to February, the average high temperatures in Tara Hills range from around 55°F (13°C) to 60°F (16°C). It can occasionally get colder during this time with nighttime temperatures dropping into the mid-40s°F (7-9°C). Rainfall is relatively abundant, with January being the wettest month of the year, receiving around 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) of precipitation.
The summer season, from June to September, sees noticeably warmer temperatures. The average high temperatures during this time range from approximately 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). July and August are the sunniest months, and rain is rare during this period. The evenings are cooler, with temperatures dropping to the mid-50s°F (12-14°C).
Spring (March to May) and fall (October to November) are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring can be quite pleasant with temperatures gradually rising, while fall sees a gradual drop in temperatures. These seasons are generally drier than the winter, but not as dry as summer, with occasional rain showers.
Overall, Tara Hills experiences a moderate climate with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. The proximity to the coast helps keep temperatures mild, while the influence of the Pacific Ocean also contributes to the occasional foggy mornings.
Neighborhoods
Tara Hills is a small, unincorporated community located in Contra Costa County, California. Although it is not officially recognized as a city or town, Tara Hills consists of several distinct neighborhoods that contribute to its unique character. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Tara Hills:
Tara Hills Village
This neighborhood is one of the central areas of Tara Hills and is known for its diverse range of housing options. It features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. Tara Hills Village is close to schools, parks, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.
El Sobrante Hills
Located in the eastern part of Tara Hills, El Sobrante Hills is characterized by its hilly terrain and picturesque views. This neighborhood offers a mix of older and newer homes, some of which are situated on large lots. El Sobrante Hills is quiet and provides a suburban atmosphere, with easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking trails.
Marygrove
Located on the western side of Tara Hills, Marygrove is a well-established neighborhood that primarily consists of single-family homes. The area features tree-lined streets and a peaceful atmosphere. Marygrove is known for its community spirit and is home to Marygrove Park, a popular gathering spot for locals.
Bayview
Situated along the western edge of Tara Hills, Bayview is a neighborhood that offers stunning views of the San Pablo Bay. Residents in Bayview enjoy waterfront living and can take advantage of various water activities such as boating and fishing. The community is primarily made up of single-family homes, many of which are designed to maximize the beautiful bay views.
Tara Hills Mobile Home Park
Located near Interstate 80, this neighborhood primarily consists of mobile homes and is a more affordable option for residents. While it is smaller than other neighborhoods, Tara Hills Mobile Home Park offers a tight-knit community and a convenient location for commuters.
Each neighborhood in Tara Hills has its own unique qualities, but they all contribute to the overall close-knit and welcoming community feel. Whether you prefer suburban living, stunning bay views, or a more affordable option, Tara Hills has a neighborhood that can meet your needs.