Trees, cute downtown, off-leash nearby, safe

[Ruth4Truth]

Well, since the discussion has now expanded to the Peninsula, I'd recommend looking at Menlo Park, as well as San Mateo. I don't know about dog parks there, but there is definitely ambience, beautiful tree-lined streets, nice homes, locally-owned shops, walkable shopping district.

I second Mill Valley and Larkspur, too. You might take a look at Fairfax while you're scoping out Marin country. Marin's attraction is the redwood forests. There's a large redwood grove with walking trails (off-leash I'm pretty sure) tucked away in the residential area, a national recreation area on the edge of town overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and a small beach just outside of town. Lots of options. There are redwoods right in the middle of Mill Valley's charming downtown.

OP, you're lucky you can afford these choices. These are beautiful areas.

[Cruithne]

Also look at Montclair in Oakland. It has loads of dog friendly parks nearby: Montclair Park, Shepherd Canyon Park, Dimond Canyon Park, Piedmont Park, Dracena Park and Blair Park all with off-leash dog runs.
Also you are right next to Redwood regional Parks. Dogs are allowed here but on leash so you should be okay with the tick thing as long as you stick to the paths. There is one small fenced dog play area in the park.

Very cute downtown area. Small but it has two supermarkets, a department store and tons of little independent stores. Check out 'Someone's in the Kitchen' on La Salle, the toy store and loads of little restaurants and take-out places. 'Flavors of India' does the best take-out curry and Naan bread anywhere.

More affordable than any of the other places mentioned.

I'd recommend Piedmont Ave in Oakland or Elmwood in Berkeley as having the best downtowns though.

[Ruth4Truth]

Originally Posted by Cruithne

I'd recommend Piedmont Ave in Oakland or Elmwood in Berkeley as having the best downtowns though.

This is interesting. I've never thought of any part of College Avenue as being a "downtown", but I know what you mean. The character of Elmwood's shopping area has been very well preserved over the decades. Nearby Rockridge's shopping is also great.

I haven't been to Montclair in ages. Now you've got me jazzed about checking it out. Good post.