Location
The City of Benicia is a Bay Area City located adjacent to the Carquinez Strait, which is part of San Francisco Bay.

Benicia, a waterfront City known for it's small town charm, history and high quality of life. The most recent San Francisco Chronicle survey of Bay Area communities named Benicia the No. 1 place to raise a family. Benicia offers an abundance of leisure and recreational activities.

Climate
Benicia has moderate Mediterranean weather resulting in dry, warm Summers and moderate Winters. The mean annual temperature is 69 degrees with an average annual rainfall of 18 inches. Located on the waterfront, the City benefits from cool bay breezes year round.

Community Events
Benicia hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year that are enjoyed by residents and visitors, individuals and families. Events range from the Annual Peddlers Fair, Handicraft Fair, Opening Day on the Straits, Glass Studios Open House, Heritage Home Tour, Arts in the Park, Christmas at the Clocktower, Downtown Farmers Market and many others.

Safety
Benicia's crime rate is very low, one of the lowest in California. You may view crime data on the City of Benicia Web site: the Crime Index Chart

Schools
The Benicia Unified School District consistently scores the highest Scholastic Achievement Scores (SAT) in Solano County. Many of Benicia's schools receive distinguished school awards. Benicia schools are rated in the top 15% of all school districts nationwide by SchoolMatch, Inc.  

A breathtaking view of the Carquinez Straits and waterfront plays an important role in Benicia's considerable charm, along with its quaint small-town atmosphere, thriving marina, treasure-filled antique shops, art studios, and eclectic shopping. Downtown Benicia is rich in California's history with over 30 historical points of interest. Strolling along downtown's First Street amidst beautifully maintained 19th century and Victorian style buildings is a favorite among visitors and residents alike. Take a walking tour of our historic neighborhoods and notice the Victorian-inspired homes and false-front western architectural examples that date back to the 1850's, or enjoy the selection of comfortable cafes and fine dining opportunities.

People visit Benicia for many reasons, some to appreciate the rich history and culture, some to explore one of the West Coast's most exciting art communities, hike, swim, sail, fish, shop, attend the many popular events throughout the year, or just to "get away from it all." Others conduct business in Benicia's Industrial Park, home to over 600 businesses employing more than 7000 people. Located adjacent to Interstate 680 and serving as the largest port-oriented industrial park in Northern California, the Benicia Industrial Park provides excellent access via interstate highways, rail, and deep-water transportation.

Over 28,000 people are fortunate to call Benicia home, where schools are ranked high in the state, the crime rate is very low, and cool breezes off the Carquinez Strait keeps the weather near perfect with an average temperature of 69 degrees. Benicia's waterfront location serves as a gateway between the Sacramento Delta's inland waterways and the San Francisco Bay. We encourage you to call or stop by the Benicia Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center at 601 First Street for additional information or to pick up a Visitors Guide and Calendar of Events.