Day Tripping at Treasure Island Flea

View of the Bay Bridge from Treasure Island.

The quirky Treasure Island Flea market opens up the last weekend of every month on Treasure Island. It’s an eclectic mix of hipsters, local entrepreneurs and traditional flea market finds. Most of the displays/booths are so well done, you’ll feel like you are at an upscale street fair or high-end pop up market rather than a traditional flea market. The event features live music and some of the Bay Area’s Best food trucks. No fear, drinks are near, they have a roving drink cart with mixed drinks available…yes, I’m talking Bloody Marys, Mimosas and a variety of concoctions available while you peruse and find your treasures. It’s a perfect way to spend your Saturday soaking up some sun whether you’re single, have a sweetie, hanging with friends or with the family. 

Traditionally I look for unique used goods or antiques at flea markets but on my last visit to the market I fell in love with several of the local business vendors. Here are a few of my favorites, check them out;

The Little Things by Sarah Marie; Vintage Inspired Guitar & Camera Straps

Let’s face it, if you are carrying around a camera or guitar you already ooze coolness, so why not add some more style and up your cool factor even more. I want one.

T-We Tea

One of my favorite Korean food trucks at the market, HiYaaa! 

This collection of witty named teas will attract you with its slick packaging but it doesn’t stop there, the teas are tasty too. Try the Hipsters in Wonderland, Sexpot and Bad Bromance...there are plenty of other blends to choose from too.

Waffles & Honey; Jewelry

This Etsy jeweler uses raw cut stones and natural elements to create stylish and earthy pieces. 

Papier Vintage; Handmade Cards Invitations and Gifts

These handmade goodies utilize the look of a Polaroid and vintage pictures to create unique handmade cards. Little art pieces in themselves, I want a collection.

RegGrained

They take the leftover products from brewing beer and use the healthy ingredients to create snack food, think bars and granola. How’s that for efficiency?

Now go, it's your turn. Let me know what treasures you find!

Click here to see upcoming dates and events for Treasure Island Flea. Note events have free parking and are dog friendly. Also It gets windy and cold, especially now that we are in the winter months. Layer up with jackets, warm socks and beanies.

Like this market…but wait there’s more!

The same group just launched the Jack of all Trades Market at Jack London Square in Oakland, which is held every second Saturday of the month.

Other things to do on Treasure Island…

If you are looking for more to do on Treasure Island there are several wineries you can visit there as well, so make a full day of it. Wineries include; Treasure Island Wines, Fat Grape Winery, The Winery SF, Bodega Wine Estates.

Don’t forget to take a pic of the great views of the Bay Bridge and Port of San Francisco. Check out the view of the new span of the Bay Bridge and see the mysterious Google Barge.

Venice Photo Essay - A Day in Venice, Italy

The photos below are some of my favorites from wandering around Venice this past September.

Gondeliers taking a break

The back side of the Doges Palace

A waterway in Venice, Italy

A woman begging for money

Produce market on a boat

Actors in costume

Venice delivery service

The crowds in St. Marks Square

Get Lost in Venice, Italy

I love Venice. When I talk to most people they either love it or hate it. Those who hate it rattle on about the high prices, crowds and heat. To a certain extent they are right. The main attractions, St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doges Palace, had a steady line of at least 100 people when I visited in September. The soaring mid-day temperatures and crowds sent me steering clear of all the packed alleys, streets and tourist sites. Of course I wanted to see the sites, they are spectacular, but what I realized is that the true romance and beauty of Venice is found when you simply wander the city and get lost.

No city map seems to be exact or to scale. Streets are alleys with hidden twists, turns and dead ends. It’s an open labyrinth that’s big enough to get lost in but small enough to always find your way back. The labyrinth of Venice has endless bars and eateries offering one of a kind wines, prosecco, and small bites of delectable food around every corner. The city's unique romance and magic truly comes alive when you are wandering. I'm not suggesting that you skip the famous sites, but be sure to plan on spending a day just getting lost.

A few recommendations for getting lost:

Bring a map – it’s always nice to be able to find your way back when you truly have no idea where you are. I consider myself good with directions and Venice had me all turned around. It’s fun but you’ll need a map to reference when you want to get back home.

Bring your Camera – the beauty of Venice is more apparent then ever in the quiet alleys and waterways. Bright colors and aged walls, it’s a photographers heaven.

Wear comfortable shoes - I know, you are in Italy and everyone around you is in designer heels and boots. It’s tempting to join in, but trust me if you are going to put in three to six hours of exploring this city, wear your tennis shoes. Save the heels for dinner.

Know anyone visiting Venice soon? Please feel free to share this article with them. Here are a series of photos from my time getting lost in Venice. 

Hitting an unexpected dead end

Wandering

Bridge and waterway in Venice, Italy

Signs leading to Piazza San Marco are throughout the city

Aged walls in Venice, Italy

I love the color of the boat in this picture

For more pictures from my adventures in Venice visit my Venice Photo Essay: A Day in Venice.