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Coyote Point Recreation Area: A Bayside Gem

Discover bayside fun at Coyote Point Recreation Area: hiking, beaches, museums, and stunning views await in San Mateo!

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Coyote Point Recreation Area, a 670-acre park in San Mateo, California, offers a diverse range of recreational activities and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Once an island, the park now features hiking trails, a marina, a playground, a museum, and a sandy beach, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Coyote Point Recreation Area

Local tips

  • Bring layers, as Bay Area weather can change quickly from chilly and foggy to warm and sunny.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking can fill up.
  • Check the CuriOdyssey website for hours and special events.
  • Take advantage of the many picnic areas for a scenic lunch or dinner.
  • Consider purchasing an annual park pass if you plan to visit frequently.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, exit at Peninsula Avenue and head east. Turn left onto Coyote Point Drive and follow the road to the park entrance. There is a $6 vehicle entry fee. Payment can be made via electronic pay stations accepting credit cards and cash. Parking is available throughout the park.

  • Public Transport

    From San Francisco, take the SamTrans 292 bus to the Peninsula Ave & N Claremont St stop. From there, it is a 20-minute walk to the park entrance. The bus fare is approximately $1-$5. Alternatively, take Caltrain to the Burlingame station and walk southeast. Turn left onto Howard Ave, right onto Humboldt Rd, and left onto Peninsula Ave. Continue onto Coyote Point Dr and follow the signs to the park. This is approximately a 29-minute walk.

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Discover more about Coyote Point Recreation Area

Coyote Point Recreation Area is a multifaceted park located on the San Francisco Bay, south of the San Francisco International Airport. This 670-acre park, operated by San Mateo County, has a rich history, transforming from an island used by Native Americans to a bustling amusement park and a Merchant Marine training facility before becoming the recreational haven it is today. Today, Coyote Point offers a wide array of activities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy a sandy bathing beach, and picnic with stunning bay views. The park is also home to the CuriOdyssey museum, a science and wildlife center perfect for families. Children will especially enjoy the Magic Mountain Playground, featuring a castle and dragon-themed play structure. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are popular activities, with gear rentals available. The Coyote Point Marina provides berths for sailboats and motorboats, and the Coyote Point Yacht Club encourages family yachting. Birdwatching is another popular pastime, with the park offering excellent views of shorebirds and planes landing at SFO. Coyote Point's history adds to its charm. Originally an island, it was once part of Spanish and Mexican lands before becoming the property of the Howard family, who developed it for recreation. In the early 20th century, it was the site of the Pacific City Amusement Park, a short-lived but grand venture. The park's diverse landscape, from the eucalyptus-covered knoll to the saltwater marsh, provides a unique and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

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