Harbor Bay Club

Tennis at Harbor Bay Club is the best kept secret in the east bay. When I moved to Alameda 15 years ago from San Francisco I discovered Harbor Bay Club with its 19 lighted tennis courts, swimming pool, spa services and work-​out facilities. No more waiting for hours to get a court, no more making reservations days in advance, no more getting kicked out of the courts when my time is up. I thought such a facility would cost me a fortune to join but I was amazed at how much of a bargain it is compared to what I was paying to play in San Francisco. The club has an excellent junior program. The children love the teaching professionals, Hein, Debbi and Alex and the tennis program coordinator, Fung Yee. When my grandchildren first started taking lessons I had to coax them to go, now that my grandson is playing in the East Bay Junior League, he hardly misses his lessons and matches. If you are looking for a club that has great facilities for tennis and excellent junior program check out Harbor Bay Club.

PLEASE READ!
This is not a complaint on the Club itself… but on the massage therapist in their Spa «Laura». I had to go to the emergency room 4 days ago. because of a bad inner ear infection that also had a bad side affect «Vertigo». Taking this medication is very scary and makes you very drowsy and you feel like a complete zombie, so you forget everything. Of course I forgot about my appointment. Im going through health issues and a hard time right now. and I am solo taking care of myself. Im In tears everyday. and don’t even know if i can even work out anymore. But when the Receptionist asked the Massage Therapist «Laura», what she can do about my situation of not calling or showing up to the appointment, the massage therapist gave me the ultimatum of either «reschedule with her» or «I have to pay»…Seriously? It was a medical emergency and I have no idea if this is temp or forever issue, and all she cared about was «MONEY» over someones health? Why would I ever want someone who «claims» she is a healer. to beat me when I’m down. I am very disappointed at the inhumane actions of this person. I will tell a lot of my friends (who I got to join the club), to not support the spa after this experience. I am still in shock that she didn’t even ask if I was ok. It seems like «Laura» is without compassion for misery or suffering.
I am VERY disappointed and sadden of this experience.

This club has a ton of potential, but I think the owner wants to turn it into homes. That’s not a bad idea, since it would be much more profitable for the owner. Thus, the upkeep of the club is not up to par. Why spend money on a sinking ship right? They’ve been talking about building a new club for many years now, but still nothing is set in stone. That new club is will have only 8 tennis courts instead of the 20 they currently have. So again, more revenue, less member options. That seems to be the M.O. here. Unfortunately, there aren’t many other choices for clubs in the area. So this is what Alameda residents are stuck with. Guess we

**This review is for Little League summer camp.**
We were very, very disappointed with our experience here. The «counselors» are young teenagers who are more interested in their phones then the children in their care. The only interaction I saw between counselors and kids was when a child was being disciplined. Below is a list of our experience:
* Day 1 of camp and no one welcomed us or greeted the kids
* There was no activity in the morning to keep the kids engaged at drop off. The kids were all in a small room with nothing to do and about 3 counselors sitting around looking at their phones. This lasted for 20 — 30 mins EACH morning
* Counselor to child interactions were extremely sparse, and as I stated earlier, only occurred when a chid was being disciplined.
* The «discipline» was more like threats of punishment. Young children (age 4 – 6) were told they needed to be quiet or they would «be punished» by playing the «quiet game». The more they talked, the more minutes were added on.
*Children were left unsupervised. Both my children were left unsupervised in the bathroom after I was clearly told that a counselor would always be supervising bathroom time
*The TV was used frequently at drop off and pick up. By frequently, I mean almost every day.
*The place was billed as an interactive sports camp yet my children received no interaction and very little by way of sports. They spent a lot of time on the playground or watching TV. And, the camp is not cheap!
*Twice, I was picking up other children in addition to my own. I walked out of there with no one ever checking to make sure it was ok for additional children to leave with me
*And, here is the real kicker — My 6 yo son was left unsupervised at the hot tub and FELL IN. We are SO lucky that he is fine, but that is truly unacceptable.
We were there for 3 weeks and I spoke to the directors several times in the first week and a half. While the response from the director was always professional, courteous and understanding, I never really saw any change in the program itself. It was a very disappointing experience and I strongly recommend caution if you are planning on using this camp.

I purchased a one week pass to swim. I had a couple of delightful swims in the past few days, but this morning was not at all pleasant. I thought the Master Swim class started at 7:45 a.m., so I got to the pool at 5:55 am. I swim for an hour a day. The Master Swim class actually starts at 6:45 am and that is when my experience went from pleasant to nasty. Having no idea of which lanes they use, and since I had been there 45 minutes prior to the class starting, I was in lane 2, closest to the building. An older man came up, stood at the end of the pool, and glared at me. He was a master walker… and his glares throughout my 10 minutes left, were almost painful! I was asked to move to another lane, which was fine, except that the woman who chose to share that lane was also a bully and kept swimming in the middle of the two lanes… I found the swimmers extremely territorial, not friendly to newcomers, and bullies who tried to push me into the lane divider. Not once, but by two different «Master Swimmers». So glad I didn’t join this club…

I am extremely excited to leave this review. I suffer from major migraines/​headaches but l do not like to take pills for personal reasons. So l been combing over the internet for all types of remedies and methods to rid myself of my pain. I mean migraines so intense that causes nausea.
Well Laurie Higginbotham is extremely knowledgeable about ways to remedy as well as informative in regards to the various types of headache/​migraines there are and explained in great detail with easy understanding as to what, to look for to know which type that l was currently experiencing.
Thanks to Laurie H. I have been able to recognize which type l am experiencing and a quick solution to relieve my pain. I am very pleased with here knowledge and recommendations she is absolutely fabulous and l have recommended friends as well as strangers to Laurie thank you a million times over still wouldn’t be enough.

This gym sucks.
I’ve been a member here for a few years, and i have yet to see improvement.
If your looking to be uplifted, inspired, or motivated, don’t even bother joining here. It’s impossible to put blood sweat and tears into a workout when you’re constantly being stepped on, and forced into a small area that also has «personal training» going on.
First, there are only about 16 machines in the weight room. There are three bench presses, and yet only two mediocre leg presses.
Management also thought it would be a great idea to take out the Smith machine, and donate to alameda high. The assisted squat machine is vital to building the biggest muscle in the body. When you are unable to squat regularly and need assist, it’s very helpful. I asked why it was gone, the lady simply said «you can only do one exercise with it». Excuse me? I’m sorry but who licensed you as a trainer?
You can do quite a few exercises with the smith machine, including glute bridges, a variety of lunges, pull ups, and more. How disrespectful.
This gym is very slow paced, but if you like to listen to early 90s music mixed with a little Taylor swift, I suggest taking some spin classes.
When I try to relax in the hot tub, other women around me tend to scream in their foreign language and yell from across the room. It’s the icing on the top of the cake, really. When I decide to dry off, I actually get my skin exfoliated by the towels that I accidentally mistake for sandpaper. I also get to overhear The Real Housewives of Bayfarm drama.
Thanks for everything harbor bay club! You’re amazing!

This Club is 55% Tennis, 25% pool, Cardio/​gym 15% and the rest.
I join this club thinking maybe my son can learn to play Tennis, I have been a member for the 4^th month now, and yet to get a hold for someone in the Tennis department.
We have called, emailed and went to the office on &off for the last 4 months, left voicemail. No one cares.
The camp my son wants to join, we still have to pay $ 325 week for the Tennis camp, and yet, no one cares. They don’t care to make extra revenues.
*The Tennis and courts are old and cracked. The pool is a 6 lanes 25 meters long that is always packed.
*The shower and changing rooms are old, they make you pay for the locker per day.
*The crowd are 75% retired seniors (i like to say 90% of them are seniors).
*Plenty of parking.
*The weekends hours are until 7 pm only,
*$ 240 for 2 each month, 1 year agreement.
*Good free weight and gym equipment. (So does 24 Fitness, just $ 35/​month)
*Poor management
*swimming pool is always packed, you need to share lane with someone, some swimmers take up too much time, they should limit each swimmer to 30 min during peak hours.
*Nice 8 persons Jacuzzi outdoor. And they have steam room and sauna room indoor…

Laurie is a true gem. Our daughter had an anterior tibula ankle stain. Wore a boot for too long. The ankle became so weak and lost muscle mass. We met with orthopedic docs and physical therapists. No one could get it to heal. I called on Laurie Higginbotham. Not only did she have extreme knowledge but overall patience to work with a child. She took a child who could not walk regularly and provided her the ability to work her lazy muscles and walk in both feet. Yes it was painful. However Laurie’s expertise showed her not to have fear. She connects with the child in such a beautiful way there was no room to be afraid. There are very few adult doctors who deal with small children. The field is wide open and people like laurie are needed. If you have any child with a sports injury I suggest you contact Laurie Higginbotham. She is at HBC or can be contacted directly. All we can say is WOW! And thank you.

If you want an upscale gym in Alameda, then this is your only choice. They have a spa, sauna, jacuzzi, tennis courts, nail salon, great group classes and a decent amount of machines. Also, lots of parking. You pay an upscale price here though for a monthly gym membership — upwards of almost $ 200 by the time you include all your extras.
But this place has a lot of problems. Although the staff are, for the most part, nice and professional, you really don’t get what you are paying for here.
Issues:
* Many old machines… some elliptical machines are covered in rust
* Many tennis courts are in bad shape
* The entire facility needs a face-​lift …it’s decorated like it’s 1970
* Hand-​written and printer signs in sleeves EVERYWHERE, on almost every surface
* Spin classes and others with acoustics where it’s nearly impossible to hear the instructor
* Kids galore… sometimes even in the locker room where they are not supposed to be and a staff that doesn’t want to deal with this issue
The pool area looks nice and seems popular although I’ve never been down there.
It seems like a very family-​friendly place and they definitely welcome the retired generation.
It would just be a whole lot nicer if you were paying a lot less, or, if they gave the place a huge face lift and there were strict rules and enforcement for areas that children can be.

Great location, extensive tennis facilities, friendly staff, neighborhood nexus, great option for after school care neair Amelia earhart.

I have been a member of HBC for 2 ½ years now and play tennis 3 times a week. The club is in a wonderful location and I enjoy being a member very much. My only complaints are that they don’t promote tennis very well, and do not put money into maintaining the courts. The lockers are old and outdated as well.
I would give 5 stars if they made a commitment to staying in the current location and updated the club to a more modern facility.

Tennis courts, racquetball and heated pool are great. Updated machines and workout room a plus. Good amount of exercise classes to choose from. Only downside is locker charge per day and women’s showers are showing their age and need a makeover. But it does the job. Been coming here off and on for 15 years

I have tried out this club a few times hoping I’d like it each time but it’s just not for me.
Pros:
The pool and the amount of chairs on the deck.
During off peak hours the cardio area was great.
Plenty of parking too.
Steam room and hot tub in the women’s area
Cons:
The locker rooms are not fabulous, especially the lockers. Plus, don’t make people pay for the use of the lockers — that’s just tacky.
The weight room for free weights is poorly setup — no room for spotters.
No squat rack — really?
The Smith-​machine just needs to go.
Weights were scattered everywhere — Re-​Rack people!
General Manager — Louise needs to be reconsidered
Staff:
The General Manager — Louise is openly condescending to staff members. Let’s be professional and treat the staff that actually does the work that you can’t be bothered with respectfully. Lead by example Louise … you aren’t that special and I’m sure replaceable.
Staffing could be better. At the rate charged for membership staffing should be a priority. Young people who feel the need to gossip, take selfies and talk about members openly is unprofessional. Lifeguards, find some class and put away your cell phones you are their to save lives. Dear Louise: Don’t hire little Suzie or Johny just because Mom and Dad have been long time members.
I hope the facility prospers at the new location.

Julie Craig the Events manager is outstanding. She makes sure ever detail of your event is perfect and makes you feel like you are the only priority she has.
You get the beautiful surrounds too.
Linda T

I love Harbor Bay club!
I have now been a member for the last few months. I don’t get to go as often as I would like, due to my work schedule. My daughter and I try to use the pool at least 3 times a week and I have used the gym a few times. The clubhouse is a great easy place to eat with kids. the staff is super nice and the only reason I’m not giving it 5 stars is that the locker room is a little funky and the lockers are pay for. Membership dues should cover the use of lockers. And the spin classes are kind of boring. But the pool and workout room are amazing.
All in all I kind of consider this my happy place.

I’m sure I’ll update this after attending HBC on a regular basis, but after two days (Sat & Sun) of my 1 week pass I can tell you this:
Pool: It’s great. Awesome. I’ve been in aquatics for the past 10 years and have had to maintain and work at all kinds of pools with all kinds of chemical systems. HBC is ⁴⁄₅ in my book. Nothing can compare to a chlorine gas treated pool (super clear and no smell) or a saline chlorine pool (no smell and gentle), but this pool is clear and has a very low chloramine smell. BTW folks — fun fact — if you can smell chlorine it doesn’t mean that there’s TOO MUCH chlorine. It just means the water balance is off and you’re smelling «used up» chlorine that is no longer working. Let’s put that myth to rest… but I digress. Nothing compares to an outdoor pool. Period. It’s an older pool but it’s clear, no chloramine funk and the lanes are wide. Pool temp isn’t too warm or too cold. I’m in love. There’s an outdoor spa and a spa in the locker rooms. Ew… knowing what’s in those I’ll never go into one but I like there’s one for each gender. I want to try a massage at some point too.
Lifeguards are on duty but… as someone who trains and hires lifeguards for a living… let’s just say I hope nothing horrible happens in the HBC pool because they’ll have a lawsuit on their hands if their guards continue to talk, not be rescue ready and sunbathe away from the pool edge… FYI HBC Aquatics Director. Be careful with your guards. I will happily audit them for you as training practice. It’s my specialty. (With the current demographic using the pool, they’ll most likely deal with a cardiac incident of a water aerobics or masters lap swimmer). Don’t know what your insurance covers but just be careful! I speak from experience as it’s not a matter of «if» but «when» something will happen. Sorry, it’s hard not to be biased on guard performance anywhere I go… even Disneyland and those guards are ON POINT with perfect rotations and scanning techniques.
Group Ex: Tried a 90 minute yoga class. It was lovely. The studio is open with skylights and as you’re doing a reverse warrior you can look up to the surrounding trees and sky. The instructor even noticed I was new and introduced herself to me. I like that. Going to try cycling and more yoga this week.
Cardio/​Weights: Not too big of a space, but everything you need is available. Life Fit machines. Free weight section. Cardio equipment with Tvs with cable (sweet!). Wonder what it’s like during peak hours…
Overall Feel: I like that it feels like a community. No douchecanoe meat heads here as far as I can tell. Everyone is really friendly. I don’t feel like I’m being judged for being a medium speed swimmer (meh, getting back in shape) and people seem welcoming. Feels like a spread out, fancier, more equipped YMCA. I say Y because of the community aspect. Happy to see they’re in the process of getting a whole new facility approved to be built down the road too. I want to get in before that happens and the rates go up (or prospect of going up). Though, a bit pricey for my taste, I hate outdoor pools and it’s close to my house. And I don’t think it feels like an old facility, even though it is. Maybe that’s because I worked at Y for years that was even older, but it’s a huge upgrade in my book. If you can afford it, go for it. I’ll budget special just to afford this place.
I don’t like that a locker is $ 1.50 a day. That’s crazy talk — especially if I’m already paying top dollar for a membership. But I’ll figure that out. Luckily there’s a separate (small) locker room for the pool where you can use a lock for a day use locker.
But overall, they got a new member out of me and I’m excited!

I signed up for a week of swim lessons with Maddie and the kids loved it! Great gym option for people that live in Bay Farm island.

If Harbor Bay Club was a drag queen her name would be «A Whole Lot of Nothing!»
I am sure this place had it’s prime like 25 years ago and it shows that the management is afraid of change.
Let’s break down the fees to work out here:
$ 99 enrollment fee (make up admin fee)
$ 149.00 a month, ouch
$ 1.5 a day for a locker, really?
$ 30 a month to use the tennis courts, why?
I felt like they are trying to get the money out of the new members because a lot of the old timers are grandfathered in perhaps? This place has a Lake Tahoe feel to it, might be the dark inside or looking out the outdated windows to the pine trees perhaps?
If you have plenty of disposable income and don’t care then this is the place for you.
I tried to get a guest pass and was told it would be for 2 days, really what can I do in 2 days? I then got a weeks pass and didn’t’ fully use it because I was too disappointed in this place. :-((that’s my sad boo boo kitty look).
3 small rooms: cardio, stretch & free weights. Let’s hire somebody to rub backs and we can call this place a Spa, ya right! The locker room, old rusty lockers. Just because you have kids folding towels at the front or have plenty of simple smaller white towels in the locker room doesn’t mean you can charge $ 149 a month.
TIP: The Four Season’s in SF is only $ 75 a month and it’s modern!

The massage: 3.5 stars.
The facilities: 2 stars.
The massage therapist was late but the massage itself was very good. ½ star off for being late and still ending on time. That means I got less massage time, right?
The facilities are small. The gym has fewer pieces of equipment than my normal gym. However, they do have extensive tennis courts. I guess it’s a USGA facility. The swimming pool was outdoors and not heated enough. A couple of whirlpools (one outside and one inside the locker room), a sauna, showers, and lockers. The place felt a bit out-​dated. It’s clean which is a huge plus.
The staff didn’t seem overly helpful. Everything was very blah. Instead of them offering up information, we had to sort of squeeze it out of them. It was an «eh» experience.