Lamorinda Neighborhood Maps
I created custom maps to help you visualize the different neighborhoods in Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda.
Contact me if you'd like to know more or set up a neighborhood tour.
Lafayette
Lafayette is a charming city located in Contra Costa County, known for its vibrant downtown area, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation, with the Lafayette Reservoir and Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. Additionally, the city has been recognized as one of the safest in California, making it a great place to live or visit.
Moraga
Moraga is a small and picturesque town situated in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for its affluent community, impressive public schools, and stunning natural surroundings, including the popular Moraga Commons Park and the iconic Moraga Hilltop Tree, a historic landmark that has stood in the town for over a century.
Orinda
Orinda is known for its lush greenery, top-rated schools, and vibrant arts community, with notable attractions such as the California Shakespeare Theater and the Orinda Theatre Square, a popular shopping and dining destination for locals and visitors alike.
The Rich History of Lamorinda: Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda
Nestled in the picturesque San Francisco Bay Area, Lamorinda encompasses the charming towns of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. Steeped in history, this region has evolved over time into a vibrant and welcoming community.
Lafayette: From Ranchos to a Thriving Town
Originally inhabited by the Saclan tribe, a branch of the Bay Miwok Native Americans, the land that is now Lafayette was granted to Elam Brown, a settler who arrived in 1848. Brown established a farming community that flourished, and in 1857, the Lafayette School District was formed.
Lafayette experienced rapid growth in the 20th century, thanks to its location along the Sacramento Northern Railroad. With a surge in population and business development, the town officially incorporated in 1968. Today, Lafayette is a bustling community known for its exceptional schools, vibrant downtown, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Moraga: A Legacy of Ranching and Education
Moraga's history begins with the land grant given to Joaquin Moraga, the grandson of José Joaquín Moraga—an early Spanish explorer of California. Joaquin Moraga founded the town in the 1830s, and it remained a primarily agricultural and ranching community until the early 20th century.
Moraga's evolution as a town was catalyzed by the establishment of St. Mary's College in 1863, which relocated from San Francisco to Moraga in 1928. The college played a crucial role in the town's growth, and Moraga eventually incorporated in 1974. Today, the town is a close-knit community known for its excellent schools and stunning natural beauty.
Orinda: Gateway to the Caldecott Tunnel
The Huchiun Native Americans were the first inhabitants of the land that is now Orinda. The area saw significant development with the arrival of the California and Nevada Railroad in the late 1800s. Orinda's growth accelerated in the early 1900s, particularly with the construction of the Caldecott Tunnel, which connected Orinda to Oakland and the greater Bay Area.
Orinda was named after the famous poet Katherine Philips, who used the pen name "The Matchless Orinda." The town officially incorporated in 1985 and has since become a thriving community with a strong arts and cultural scene. Its picturesque setting, top-rated schools, and family-friendly environment make Orinda a desirable place to live.
The history of Lamorinda is a story of perseverance, community, and growth. Each town—Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda—has its own unique past that has shaped its present-day character. As the residents of these three towns continue to build upon their rich heritage, Lamorinda remains a vibrant and attractive destination for those seeking a welcoming community in the San Francisco Bay Area.