Seal Point Park: A Bayfront Escape in San Mateo
Discover scenic trails, art installations, and a vibrant dog park at this waterfront oasis in San Mateo, offering bay views and outdoor fun.
Seal Point Park, located in San Mateo, California, is an 80-acre waterfront park offering a blend of natural beauty, recreation, and art. Once a landfill, it was transformed into a scenic park with walking and biking trails, a dog park, and unique wind-powered art installations. It's a popular spot for bird watching, picnics, and enjoying views of the San Francisco Bay.
A brief summary to Seal Point Park
- 1901 J Hart Clinton Dr, San Mateo, East San Mateo, California, 94401, US
- +1650-787-9153
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 6 am-7 pm
- Saturday 6 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light, fewer crowds, especially on weekends.
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching along the trails and near the shoreline.
- Check the wind forecast before visiting to fully appreciate the kinetic art installations.
- Utilize the free parking available, but arrive early as lots can fill up quickly, particularly during peak hours.
- Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the adjacent San Francisco Bay Trail for an extended outdoor adventure.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Seal Point Park via public transport, take the Caltrain to the San Mateo station. From there, transfer to SamTrans Bus Route 250 towards the San Mateo Bridge and get off near J Hart Clinton Dr. It's about a 10-minute walk to the park from the bus stop. Alternatively, SamTrans routes ECR or 292 stop near the park; from El Camino Real, transfer to the free Commute.org shuttle (HCC route) to Hillsdale Caltrain Commuter, which drops you closer to the park entrance. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.25 for adults. The Commute.org shuttle is free.
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Ride-Share
Using a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option. Input 'Seal Point Park, 1901 J Hart Clinton Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401' as your destination in the app. The estimated cost from downtown San Mateo is typically between $15 and $20, depending on traffic and demand.
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Car
If driving, take US-101 S and exit toward CA-92 E/San Mateo Bridge. Merge onto CA-92 E and continue for about 5 miles. Take the exit towards J Hart Clinton Dr and merge onto it. Follow J Hart Clinton Dr until you reach Seal Point Park. Parking is available at the park. Parking is free. However, lots can fill up quickly, but street parking is also available.
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Walking
From El Camino Real, walk east on 3rd Avenue, then turn right onto J Hart Clinton Drive. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles.
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