Pulgas Water Temple, A Monument to Water

Less than an hour outside of the hustle and bustle of San Francisco and Silicon Valley is a hidden gem.  Yes, Filoli is one too - http://aroundthebayandaway.blogspot.com/2016/08/dynasty-downton-abbey-filoli.html although no longer hidden, but a lesser known one a few minutes down the road is the Pulgas Water Temple.  

The temple with its Corinthian columns was dedicated to San Francisco’s water access of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and is a popular spot for wedding photos and weddings as well so call (650) 872-5900 before you go in case they are closed for a private event. 

Only open on the weekdays and limited 30 minute parking means it is never overcrowded making this a perfect respite.  A short walk from the parking lot, you will pass a water fountain claiming to have one of the highest quality water to take a sip or fill up a water bottle and judge for yourself.  

Further down the path, a picturesque scene unfolds with the water temple to one side 

and the water pool which unfortunately was drained during our visit probably to avoid overflow and flooding due to the heavy rains we have been receiving this winter and vast lawn on the other side.  

With CA finally becoming drought free for the first time since 2011 and my husband about to start a new job the following day with the other water company across the Bay, our first visit here just seemed so serendipitous and fitting. 

Puglas Water Temple

80 Canada Road

Redwood City, CA 94062