Fall and winter in Alameda are the best times to observe such sea birds as loons, grebes and ducks at Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach. Crab Cove, at the north end of the beach, has been designated a marine reserve. Crab Cove Visitor Center, on McKay near Central, features exhibits about shoreline and undersea life and a saltwater aquarium with live bay creatures; phone (510) 544-3187. Learn More...