Hayward (/ˈheɪwərd/; formerly, Haywards, Haywards Station, and Haywood) is a city located in Alameda County, California in the East Bay subregion of the San Francisco Bay Area. With a 2014 population of 149,392, Hayward is the sixth largest city in the Bay Area and the third largest in Alameda County. Hayward was ranked as the 37th most populous municipality in California. It is included in the San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census. It is located primarily between Castro Valley and Union City, and lies at the eastern terminus of the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge. The city was devastated early in its history by the namesake 1868 Hayward earthquake. From the early 20th century until the beginning of the 1980s, Hayward's economy was dominated by its now defunct food canning and salt production industries.

A city in the San Francisco Bay Area region, Hayward may not be the prime attractions for tourists to visit in California, but it is close to many tourist locations and also the Silicon Valley making it an easy draw for visitors. There are no major landmarks, but plentiful of small attractions that give the place its character. There are shops all around the city along with various parks and outdoor areas providing opportunities for indulgence. The city is replete with numerous picnic sites, fishing and camping areas as well, not to mention, the extraordinary views of the bay areas it provides. Ensure to visit the prominent areas like Don Castro Regional Park, The Japanese Gardens, Hayward Area Historical Society & Museum and such. All these, when added to a bustling atmosphere and well-hyped people makes for a perfect recipe of local retreat. Come solo or with friends, the place will serve you well!