Things to do in San Mateo

Activities, attractions and tours

Panorama of the Pacific ocean on sandy Cowell Ranch State beach surrounded by sea cliffs, rocky headlands on sunny day in San Mateo County, California
Golden Gate Bridge at Dawn
Magical Sunset Panorama over Santa Cruz Mountains. Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. San Mateo County, California, USA.
Panorama of Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park on the California coastline south of San Francisco on the Cabrillo Highway.
San Mateo–Hayward Bridge as seen from the Foster City (San Mateo) end - Bay Area, California
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Most popular experiences in San Mateo

Tours & day trips

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Redwood Forest & Santa Cruz Harbour Day Tour from San Francisco

Redwood Forest & Santa Cruz Harbour Day Tour from San Francisco

Activity duration is 12 hours and 30 minutes
8.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is S$291 per traveller
Redwood Forest & Santa Cruz Harbour Day Tour from San FranciscoOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

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Filoli Historic House and Garden Entry Ticket

Filoli Historic House and Garden Entry Ticket

10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is S$50 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Napa, Sonoma and Exclusive Battery Spencer Small Group Wine Tasting Tour

Napa, Sonoma and Exclusive Battery Spencer Small Group Wine Tasting Tour

Activity duration is 9 hours
4.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is S$177 per traveller
Napa, Sonoma and Exclusive Battery Spencer Small Group Wine Tasting TourOpens in new tab

What to do in San Mateo

Stay near popular San Mateo attractions

Coyote Point Park

8.6/5 (188 reviews)
Coyote Point Recreation Area blends bay views with diverse activities for all ages. Explore the castle-themed Magic Mountain Playground, visit CuriOdyssey science museum, or watch planes landing at nearby SFO.
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Where to stay in San Mateo

Find the best San Mateo areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Mateo
Learn more about San Mateo
Sunset view of the historic San Mateo County Courthouse in downtown Redwood City, California, USA.

Downtown San Mateo

If you're spending some time in Downtown San Mateo, Cinemark Century San Mateo 12 and The San Mateo Japanese Garden are top sights worth seeing.

Half Moon Bay, California Shots- USA

North Central

While North Central isn't home to many top sights, Poplar Creek Golf Course and CuriOdyssey are some notable places to visit nearby.

Fog slides over the hills in a thick white blanket. Crystal Springs Reservoir, San Mateo County, California, USA.

Highlands-Baywood Park

While Highlands-Baywood Park isn't home to many top sights, Sugarloaf Mountain and Crystal Springs Golf Course are some notable places to visit nearby.

Sunset view of Crystal Springs Reservoir, San Francisco bay area, California

Sugarloaf

If you're spending some time in Sugarloaf, Sugarloaf Mountain and Hillsdale Shopping Center are top sights worth seeing.

Clock Tower in Filoli Garden, California

Hillsdale

You'll enjoy the restaurants and live music in Hillsdale. You might want to make time for a stop at San Mateo County Event Center or Bay Meadows Park.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Golden Gate Bridge at Dawn

Burlingame

Redwood City

Redwood City

San Francisco

San Francisco

Frequently asked questions

Is San Mateo worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in San Mateo is visit Coyote Point Park. Check this major sight off your agenda, then experience more of the area's history and culture.
How do I spend a day in San Mateo?
Start your day with a visit to Coyote Point Park and Hiller Aviation Museum. Then, explore different areas of San Mateo for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Mateo?
Coyote Point Park is one of the top tourist attractions in San Mateo and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in San Mateo?
Three days in San Mateo is more than enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many travellers book for three days on average. Coyote Point Park, Hiller Aviation Museum and Peninsula Museum of Art are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like San Francisco.
Is San Mateo a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to see and do in San Mateo. Several top attractions, like Coyote Point Park and Lakeshore Park Beach, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of San Mateo's neighbourhoods, East San Mateo is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Shoreview is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in San Mateo with kids?
Deciding what to do in San Mateo with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there are many family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in San Mateo for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in San Mateo, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia or Oceanic Foot Spa.
Are there free things to do in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Coyote Point Park is a popular spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in San Mateo.

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