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Seal Point Park: A Bayfront Oasis

Discover scenic trails, a dog park, and public art with stunning San Francisco Bay views at this waterfront park in San Mateo.

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Seal Point Park in San Mateo offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities along the San Francisco Bay. Once a landfill, it has been transformed into a vibrant parkland with walking trails, a dog park, and public art.

A brief summary to Seal Point Park

  • 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 for the best views and fewer crowds.
  • Bring your dog along for a great day at the dog park, but remember to keep them leashed outside of that area.
  • Check the wind conditions to fully appreciate the park's unique art installations.
  • Walk the boardwalk along the Bay Marshes and observe wildlife, including the endangered California Clapper Rail.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Highway 101, exit at Third Avenue East. Follow Third Avenue towards the bay. Turn right onto J Hart Clinton Drive. Seal Point Park will be on your left. Parking is free, but can be limited, especially on weekends. Additional street parking is available along J Hart Clinton Drive. Be mindful of posted parking restrictions. Parking lots can fill up quickly, so arrive early.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct public transportation route to Seal Point Park, you can take a Caltrain or SamTrans bus to the San Mateo Transit Center. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park, which is approximately 3 miles away. A taxi or rideshare will cost approximately $15-25.

  • Walking

    If you are near Ryder Park, you can easily walk to Seal Point Park. Cross the bicycle/pedestrian bridge to explore Seal Point Park. From the intersection of J Hart Clinton Drive and Ryder Court, walk east along J Hart Clinton Drive. There are two walking entrances to the park marked along this road.

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Discover more about Seal Point Park

Seal Point Park, located on the eastern edge of San Mateo, is an 80-acre park offering a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and artistic expression. Bordering the San Francisco Bay, this expansive park provides a welcome escape for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure. Originally a landfill site from the 1930s to the 1980s, Seal Point Park underwent a remarkable transformation in the 1990s. Through careful capping and restoration efforts, the area was converted into a vibrant parkland, showcasing the city's commitment to environmental sustainability. Today, visitors can hardly imagine its former life as they stroll along the scenic trails and enjoy the park's diverse amenities. The park's multi-use trails are a major draw, inviting walkers, joggers, and cyclists to explore the restored marshlands and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. These trails connect to the broader San Francisco Bay Trail, offering opportunities for extended excursions along the waterfront. Keep an eye out for the diverse array of wildlife that calls Seal Point Park home, including various bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. You might even spot the endangered California Clapper Rail. For dog owners, Seal Point Park is a paradise. The park features a spacious, three-acre off-leash dog park, providing ample space for furry friends to socialize and play. Separate areas for large and small dogs ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. The dog park is equipped with amenities such as water fountains, washing stations, and shaded benches, making it a comfortable and convenient destination for both pets and their owners. Beyond its natural attractions, Seal Point Park also showcases a collection of public art installations. These kinetic sculptures, designed to interact with the wind and environment, add a unique artistic dimension to the park experience.

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