Brentwood
Brentwood is located near the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region, and the area offers lots of opportunities for boating, fishing and water recreation. The Brentwood Family Aquatic Complex, 195 Griffith Ln., caters to families with two waterslides, a lap pool and plenty of grassy areas to spread out a picnic; phone (925) 516-5430. Older kids can show off their maneuvers at the adjacent skate park, which can also be used by inline skaters.
At Round Valley Regional Preserve, 19450 Marsh Creek Rd., you can hike a 5-mile loop trail that traverses grasslands dotted with clumps of oak trees and offers panoramic views of rolling hills. The preserve is at its greenest following winter rains; the spring months are also the best time to see wildflowers. Summer temperatures can top 100 degrees; hikers should use sunscreen, wear a hat and bring plenty of drinking water.
Shopping
The Streets of Brentwood, 2455 Sand Creek Rd., is an outdoor shopping complex featuring about 30 chain retailers (think Hollister Co., Justice, Talbots and Victoria's Secret), restaurants and a 14-screen multiplex.