Modern Vespa

Now I am not super nerdy, but I did study military history in college and grew up near an Air Force base that has played a significant role in key events in US history. But being from the landlocked Midwest, naval resources were uncommon and well, I will be honest, you don't really get the full impact of WWI or WWII, living in those areas aside from knowing your grandpa got on a train and then was shipped off from there.
So, when I moved the The Bay Area, I was captivated by how much military history is in the area, and how much still remains, slightly intact, open to the public and often spaces we walk our dogs, hike or spend a hot day near the water. Up and down the coast of the area you will find remnants of what was the industry of this war. The Ford plant, where Rosie the Riveter found her name, munition plants, (look up Port Chicago 50-if you want a wild story of labor rights and how they finally, this year had their charges reversed) and of course there are the forts, Mason, Presido and even Alcatraz.
A little less known area is Point Molate. This gem of the East Bay, has some of the most stunning views of the area, it has been a totally abandoned by the navy and sold to the city of Richmond, (my home) for $1. On the far northwest side of the point is a harbor, offering boat slips to a few dozen house boats, retired Burning Man sculptures and an amazing restaurant run by a former chef from the famed Chez Panisse.
A 3-day, fog free weekend, meant my husband and I decided to head to this area just before dust to watch the sunset, get some photos and a bite to eat. I originally purchased my Vespa as a last mile solution for my work commute by train. So, I haven't really planned a "joy ride" and as a new rider, I didn't want to press my luck or confidence. So, this adventure for me was my first planned ride in which I got on the highway, rode the winding roads up and down the bluffs of this point. The roads go through eucalyptus grooves, past abandoned military housing, an old fire station, fuel storage barrels and even a gun range.
The straights open up to picturesque views of the North Bay, Mnt Tam and East Brothers light station. The weather was perfect, a slight ocean breeze. When you reach the parking lot, you are greeted by goats and a giant lizard. It was only an hour ride round trip, but it was fun and amazing nonetheless. Plus I finally got some good photos on my scooter-Frank.
Thanks for letting me share...

Killer! I pass by there every day (tugboat) but have yet to see Pt Molate/ Pt Richmond from land yet. Ever stayed at the Brothers Lighthouse?

Glad you're able to get some fun time on your scoot! Cool lights on that path. If you get the chance, do the self guided tour of the Pampanito at pier 45. It's floating in the water. I haven't ridden up by you but I love riding around San Francisco.

We have not stayed at the lighthouse. I really want to, actually in the winter when it's rainy and dreary, trapped with a good book.

Did not know the pampanito is there. My cousin was a submariner. He has some interesting stories-the ones he can tell. During COVID we would go to Mare Island and walk around, it added to the ambiance of apocalyptic times
I actually took my motorcycle rider class by the USS Hornet in Alameda. That was pretty fun too!