San Mateo, California Travel Guide

Discover San Mateo, a serene gem in California's Bay Area, offering a mix of historic charm, modern amenities, and abundant natural beauty.

San Mateo, located in the enchanting Bay Area of California, offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. Nestled between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, this city is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Explore the downtown area, where historic architecture meets modern amenities. With a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, it's a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Enjoy the weekly farmers' market, where you can pick up fresh produce and artisanal goods. Nature lovers will be thrilled with the abundance of parks and scenic spots. Central Park, with its beautiful Japanese Tea Garden, is a must-visit for a serene escape. Meanwhile, Coyote Point Recreation Area offers stunning views of the Bay and a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to picnicking. San Mateo is also home to several cultural attractions. The San Mateo County History Museum provides fascinating insights into the region's past, while the Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking to unwind, San Mateo has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring San Mateo.

Visit Central Park early in the morning to enjoy the Japanese Tea Garden without the crowds.
Check out the downtown farmers' market on Saturdays for fresh local produce and unique crafts.
For stunning Bay views, head to Coyote Point Recreation Area and take a leisurely walk along the shoreline.
Explore the San Mateo County History Museum to get a deep dive into the region's rich history.
Book tickets in advance for performances at the San Mateo Performing Arts Center to ensure you don't miss out.

Explore San Mateo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in San Mateo

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PIER 39

Experience the lively atmosphere of Pier 39 in San Francisco, with sea lions, shopping, dining, and stunning views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

4.6

Golden Gate Park

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Golden Gate Park, a must-see urban oasis in the heart of San Francisco.

4.7

Alcatraz Island

Discover the haunting history and stunning views of Alcatraz Island, San Francisco's iconic former prison and military fort.

4.7

The Painted Ladies

Experience the beauty of the Painted Ladies in San Francisco – a stunning representation of Victorian architecture and a must-see tourist attraction.

4.4

Best landmarks in San Mateo

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Salesforce Tower

Discover the architectural magnificence of Salesforce Tower in San Francisco, a pinnacle of innovation and design in the heart of the city.

4.7

Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory

Discover tranquility at Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory, a serene space for reflection and remembrance in San Mateo, California.

4.1

Ferry Building

Explore San Francisco's iconic Ferry Building: a historic landmark, transportation hub, and gourmet marketplace offering artisan foods, stunning views, and a taste of local culture.

4.6

Golden Gate Bridge

Experience the grandeur of San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge: a symbol of American ingenuity offering breathtaking views and a rich history that captivates visitors worldwide.

4.8

Best restaurants in San Mateo

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Espetus San Mateo

Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Espetus San Mateo – where tradition meets flavor in every delicious bite.

4.6

Wursthall

Discover Wursthall in San Mateo: where New American cuisine meets German tradition in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Jack's Restaurant & Bar

Discover Jack's Restaurant & Bar in San Mateo - where American comfort meets Greek delight in a warm and welcoming setting.

4.4

Ramen Dojo

Discover the authentic taste of Japan at Ramen Dojo in San Mateo – where delicious bowls of ramen await you.

4.4

Best bars in San Mateo

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Pausa Bar & Cookery

Experience the finest Italian cuisine at Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

4.5

The Swingin' Door

Discover the lively atmosphere of The Swingin' Door in San Mateo, where delicious fish & chips, karaoke, and live music await every night.

4.3

B Street & Vine

Experience the charm of California dining at B Street & Vine, where exceptional cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere in San Mateo.

4.4

O'Neills Irish Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of O'Neills Irish Pub in San Mateo, where delicious food, live music, and friendly faces await.

4.3

Best nightclubs in San Mateo

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The Swingin' Door

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Swingin' Door, where delicious fish and chips meet lively karaoke and live music in San Mateo.

4.3

O'Neills Irish Pub

Discover O'Neills Irish Pub in San Mateo, a lively venue for food, drinks, live music, and unforgettable nights in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.3

Vinyl Room

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vinyl Room, a stylish lounge in Burlingame, California, known for its exquisite cocktails and energetic atmosphere.

4.0

Mortar & Pestle Bar

Discover the lively Mortar & Pestle Bar in San Mateo, a perfect blend of delicious cuisine, refreshing drinks, and vibrant ambiance for a memorable night out.

4.4

Best shops in San Mateo

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Hillsdale Shopping Center

Discover Hillsdale Shopping Center: A premier shopping mall in San Mateo, offering diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for every visitor.

4.3

Stonestown Galleria

Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at Stonestown Galleria in San Francisco, with a variety of stores and dining options to delight every visitor.

4.2

Embarcadero Center

Discover the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and stunning views at Embarcadero Center, a premier destination in the heart of San Francisco.

4.3

Town Center Corte Madera

Discover the charm of Town Center Corte Madera, your go-to shopping mall for fashion, dining, and entertainment in California.

4.4

Explore San Mateo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in San Mateo, mapped for you.

San Mateo Essentials

San Mateo is conveniently located in the San Francisco Bay Area, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which is approximately 10 miles away. From SFO, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to reach San Mateo. Additionally, San Mateo is well-connected by Caltrain, providing direct rail service from cities like San Francisco and San Jose. If you're driving, San Mateo is accessible via U.S. Highway 101 and Interstate 280.
San Mateo offers a range of transportation options for getting around. The Caltrain service is a popular choice for commuting to nearby cities. SamTrans buses operate throughout the city and provide connections to neighboring areas. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and taxis can be found at designated stands. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available. Biking is also a viable option, with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing programs in place.
The official currency in San Mateo is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful, allowing easy access to cash if needed. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are also commonly accepted.
San Mateo is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it's always important to exercise common sense and take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your personal belongings in crowded places. Specific areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists are not prevalent, but always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The city has well-equipped medical facilities, including San Mateo Medical Center. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The San Mateo Police Department is also reliable and can be reached for non-emergency concerns.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be variable. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but upscale restaurants may require smart-casual dress. Religion: Do respect places of worship by dressing modestly and maintaining silence. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. In informal settings, a simple 'hi' is sufficient. Eating & Drinking: Do tip your server at restaurants, typically 15-20%. Don't forget to try local eateries and food trucks for a taste of local cuisine.
To experience San Mateo like a local, take a stroll through the Central Park, where you can enjoy the Japanese Tea Garden. Visit the San Mateo Farmers' Market for fresh produce and local goods. Explore the downtown area for unique shops and dining options. For a scenic view, hike the trails at Coyote Point Recreation Area. Engaging with locals at community events and festivals can provide deeper insight into the city's culture and lifestyle.

When is the best time to visit San Mateo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for San Mateo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in San Mateo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWhat's up
  [wats up]
- GoodbyeLater
  [lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/no wuhr-eez]
- Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
- Excuse me/SorryMy bad/Excuse me
  [mai bad/ik-skews mee]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [hows it goh-ing]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud yoo]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [do yoo speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [ai dohnt get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kan ai see the men-yoo]
- I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [ai'm veh-ji-teh-ree-an]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay now?
  [kan ai pay now]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kawl the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get uh doc-tur]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ai'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [ai'm sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ai wahn-nuh buy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsing
  [ai'm just brow-zing]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [hau much duhz it kost]
- That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [thats prahy-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you give me a discount?
  [kan yoo giv mee uh dis-kownt]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wuhn]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [hahf ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ve-ning]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [toh-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wuhn]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kan yoo show mee on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [uh tik-it too]

History of San Mateo

Long before European settlers arrived, the San Mateo area was inhabited by the Ohlone people. They lived in harmony with nature, utilizing the abundant resources of the Bay Area for fishing, hunting, and gathering. The Ohlone established complex social structures and were known for their intricate basket weaving and other crafts.
In the late 18th century, Spanish missionaries arrived in the region as part of their efforts to colonize California. San Mateo became part of the mission lands under the jurisdiction of Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores). The indigenous population was significantly impacted as they were assimilated into the mission system.
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, the mission lands were secularized and distributed as land grants. The area that is now San Mateo was part of Rancho San Mateo, granted to Cayetano Arenas in 1846. These large ranchos were primarily used for cattle ranching.
Following the Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, California became part of the United States. San Mateo began to develop as a distinct community with the arrival of the San Francisco-San Jose Railroad in 1863. The railroad connected San Mateo to the larger Bay Area, spurring growth and making it a desirable location for wealthy San Franciscans seeking a suburban retreat.
The establishment of the Burlingame Country Club in the late 19th century marked San Mateo as an elite destination. The early 20th century saw further development, with the construction of grand estates and a burgeoning downtown area. This period also saw the rise of the automobile, which further connected San Mateo to surrounding areas.
The post-World War II era brought a population boom to San Mateo, as returning veterans and their families sought suburban living. The city expanded rapidly, with new residential neighborhoods, schools, and commercial centers being developed. This era also saw the construction of the Hillsdale Shopping Center, which became a central retail hub for the Peninsula.
Today, San Mateo is a vibrant city known for its diverse communities, excellent schools, and thriving tech industry. The city blends historic charm with modern amenities, featuring a revitalized downtown, numerous parks, and cultural institutions like the San Mateo County History Museum. San Mateo continues to grow and evolve, maintaining its status as a desirable place to live and work in the Bay Area.