San Mateo offers a beautiful mix of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and peaceful coastal scenery. Visitors can enjoy quiet coves, scenic viewpoints, and charming seaside towns. This guide will help you explore the best of San Mateo’s coastline.
Despite its Silicon Valley address, San Mateo is tops when it comes to families. The options are endless for kids of all ages at Coyote Point Recreation Area, on San Francisco Bay. The area includes spots to fish, sail, boat or windsurf. There’s also a magical playground, plus the chance to view wild animals and natural history at CuriOdyssey. Enjoy the weather on the rocky shores of Coyote Point Beach, while listening to the crashing waves. Keep reading our San Mateo travel guide and start planning your vacation to beautiful San Mateo CA.
For a list of all the great beaches in the area, click here, or also visit us on Pinterest.
Weather and When to Visit San Mateo
San Mateo’s coastline enjoys mild weather for most of the year, which makes it a great place to visit in any season. Temperatures usually stay comfortable, and coastal breezes keep the air cool even on warm days. Fog can appear at any time, especially in summer, so dressing in layers is always a good idea.
Spring and early summer bring cool mornings and clearer afternoons. Highs often fall between 58–65°F (14–18°C), and wildflowers begin to brighten trails and bluffs along the coast.
Late summer and early fall offer the best beach weather. These months are warmer and usually less foggy, with temperatures in the 65–72°F (18–22°C) range. Beaches and viewpoints often feel crisp, sunny, and inviting.
Winter is cooler and brings more rain, but the coastline can look especially dramatic with crashing waves and moody skies. Temperatures typically range from 50–60°F (10–16°C), so it’s still comfortable for walks and sightseeing.
Because the weather shifts throughout the day, packing a light jacket or windbreaker helps you stay comfortable during your visit. Overall, San Mateo’s coast is beautiful year-round, whether you’re exploring trails, watching the waves, or enjoying a quiet sunset.
Why Visit San Mateo
San Mateo County sits on the San Francisco Peninsula and is known for its mix of ocean views, redwood forests, and small coastal towns. The area offers beaches, hikes, great food, and local history. It’s an easy place to enjoy nature or explore charming communities.
Natural Beauty & Outdoor Adventures: Almost three-quarters of the county is open space, so there is plenty of room to explore. You’ll find quiet forests, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful beaches throughout the region.
Scenic Drives & Coastal Towns: Highway 1 runs along the coast and passes through towns like Pacifica, Montara, and Half Moon Bay. Pescadero is another relaxing stop with farms, ranches, and the quiet Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve.
Beaches & Surfing: The coastline includes sandy beaches, rocky coves, and famous surf spots. Half Moon Bay State Beach is perfect for walking, and Mavericks near Pillar Point Harbor is known for its giant winter waves.
Hiking & Biking: There are miles of scenic trails. Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve offers cool, shaded redwood paths. The Sawyer Camp Trail is a smooth paved route along the Crystal Springs Reservoir.
Wildlife Viewing: Año Nuevo State Park is one of the best places in California to see elephant seals, especially in winter. The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve has tide pools filled with starfish, anemones, and other marine life during low tide.
Parks & Gardens: San Mateo’s Central Park features a peaceful Japanese Garden. Filoli Historic House & Garden in Woodside adds a touch of history with its manicured grounds and colorful seasonal blooms.
Urban Exploration & Culture
San Mateo County has a mix of lively cities and small towns. And each one offers something different. The area blends modern downtown districts with local history, museums, and family-friendly attractions. So, it’s easy to explore several neighborhoods in one visit.
Downtown Charm: The downtown areas of San Mateo and Redwood City are easy to explore on foot. They also offer a wide range of restaurants and unique shops. Many evenings include live music, outdoor events, and street fairs. So, the atmosphere stays lively throughout the year.
Museums: The county has two popular museums that give visitors a closer look at local life. The San Mateo County History Museum in Redwood City shares stories from the region’s past, and it sits inside a beautiful historic courthouse. In addition, the Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos offers hands-on exhibits and flight displays that are great for kids and adults.
Agritourism: San Mateo County also has deep agricultural roots. So, you can see them throughout the coastal and inland areas. Local farms and ranches offer tours, tastings, as well as seasonal events. For example, Harley Farms Goat Dairy in Pescadero is a favorite spot for visitors who want to enjoy a working farm and try fresh goat cheese.
Coastal Towns and Best Beaches in San Mateo County
Half Moon Bay and Pacifica are two of the most popular beach towns in San Mateo County. Both offer scenic coastal views, relaxing beach days, and easy access to the shoreline.
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is a charming Coastside town with miles of sandy shoreline, quiet neighborhoods, and beautiful coastal trails. Visitors enjoy sunbathing, fishing, picnicking, as well as long beach walks throughout the year.
Beaches in Half Moon Bay
- Half Moon Bay State Beach: A wide, sandy beach with four access points. Picnic areas and restrooms are available, and Francis Beach offers a campground for overnight stays.
- Poplar Beach: A popular, dog-friendly beach with a coastal trail and sweeping views of Half Moon Bay’s rolling hills. Whales can often be spotted from the bluff. Parking fees apply.
- Miramar Beach: A quieter beach with coastal trails, a boardwalk, and peaceful ocean views. Dog-friendly and great for relaxed walks.
Pacifica
Pacifica is known for its dramatic cliffs, cool surf scene, as well as outdoor activities. The town feels laid-back and is a favorite spot for sunset watching and coastal hiking.
Beaches in Pacifica
- Pacifica State Beach (Linda Mar Beach): The most popular beach in Pacifica. It is also a well-known surf spot. The beach has soft sand, restrooms, as well as easy access from Highway 1.
- Rockaway Beach: A small, scenic cove known for its rocky shoreline and beautiful ocean views. It’s less crowded and perfect for quiet walks.
- Sharp Park Beach: A long, scenic beach with a paved promenade and a fishing pier. Great for strolling and enjoying wide coastal views.
Montara & Moss Beach
Montara and Moss Beach sit just north of Half Moon Bay and are known for rugged cliffs, quiet neighborhoods, as well as excellent tide pooling.
Beaches in Montara & Moss Beach
- Montara State Beach: A stunning beach below dramatic bluffs. It’s ideal for sunbathing, photography, and nature walks, and it usually feels less crowded than other beaches nearby.
- Fitzgerald Marine Reserve (Moss Beach): One of California’s best tide-pooling spots. During low tide, the rocky reef reveals starfish, anemones, crabs, as well as other marine life. This area is a protected marine sanctuary.
Pescadero
Located in the southern part of San Mateo County, Pescadero is a rustic farming as well as ranching community with beautiful coastal scenery and peaceful natural areas.
Beaches in Pescadero
- Pescadero State Beach: A diverse beach with sandy coves, rocky cliffs, as well as a marsh preserve across the highway. It’s a favorite spot for bird-watching as well as photography.
- Bean Hollow State Beach: A quiet beach known for its colorful pebbles and tafoni rock formations. It’s ideal for tide pooling and peaceful coastal walks.
Other Notable Beaches in San Mateo County
- San Gregorio State Beach: A wide sandy beach bordered by high sandstone bluffs. Popular for picnicking, beachcombing, as well as exploring small caves at low tide.
- Gray Whale Cove State Beach: A beautiful, hidden-feeling beach accessed by a steep trail. It’s a great place for whale watching during migration seasons and offers stunning views from the bluff.
Getting Around San Mateo County
San Mateo County is easy to explore, and most coastal areas sit right along Highway 1. The drive is simple and scenic, and it connects Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, Montara, Moss Beach, and Pescadero. Parking is available at most beaches, but lots can fill on warm weekends.
Public transportation is also an option. SamTrans buses run through many of the coastal towns, and they offer access to several beaches and trails. Rideshare services are widely available as well, especially in the northern part of the county.
Biking is another great way to get around. The Coastside has several paved paths and quiet neighborhoods that make cycling enjoyable. Walking is easy too, since many beaches and viewpoints are close together.
Because the weather changes quickly, it’s helpful to keep layers in your car or daypack. No matter how you choose to get around, the coastline is simple to navigate and full of beautiful views at every turn.
Dining in San Mateo County
San Mateo County has a wide mix of places to eat, from casual coastal cafés to upscale restaurants with ocean views. Many spots focus on fresh seafood, local produce, and simple California flavors. Whether you’re exploring the downtown areas or visiting small coastal towns, it’s easy to find great food.
Seafood & Coastal Favorites
Half Moon Bay and Pacifica offer some of the best coastal dining in the region. You’ll find fresh fish, clam chowder, and waterfront restaurants that overlook the waves. Many places also serve local crab as well as seasonal specialties.
Downtown Dining
San Mateo and Redwood City have lively downtown districts with a wide range of restaurants. You can choose from international cuisine, cozy cafés, or farm-to-table spots. These areas are great for an evening walk as well as a relaxed meal.
Local & Farm Fresh
In towns like Pescadero, you’ll find bakeries, artisan cheese shops, and also small cafés that focus on local ingredients. Fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade dairy products are common in this part of the county. It’s a great area for anyone who enjoys simple, fresh food.
Quick Bites & Casual Options
There are also plenty of places to grab coffee, sandwiches, or picnic items. These are perfect if you want to take your meal to the beach or enjoy a quiet lunch with a view.
Best Luxury Hotels Near San Mateo County
San Mateo County is close to both Silicon Valley and San Francisco. Plus, the area offers easy access to several exceptional luxury hotels. These top-rated properties provide comfort, style, as well as convenient locations for exploring the coastline, nearby cities, and the region’s scenic outdoor spaces.
The Clement Palo Alto ★★★★★ (9.8/10)
The Clement is one of the most exclusive boutique hotels in Northern California. Guests enjoy spacious modern suites, a rooftop pool, and an all-inclusive experience that feels both personal and upscale. The hotel sits close to Stanford University and the Peninsula’s top dining, so it works well for travelers who want luxury with easy access to San Mateo and Silicon Valley.
Hotel Drisco ★★★★★ (9.8/10)
Located in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood, Hotel Drisco offers refined comfort as well as a quiet residential setting. The rooms are elegant and calm, and guests enjoy complimentary wine receptions and gourmet breakfasts. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want a peaceful stay while still being close to San Mateo County’s beaches and coastal towns.
Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley ★★★★★ (9.9/10)
Treehouse Hotel brings a relaxed, modern style to the heart of Silicon Valley. The rooms are bright and airy, and the hotel features a landscaped outdoor pool and cozy lounge areas. It’s a great option for travelers who prefer a playful, design-forward stay with easy access to both the coast the tech corridor.
Additional Luxury Hotels Near San Mateo County
Cypress Inn on Miramar Beach – ★★★★★ (9.3/10)
Cypress Inn offers an intimate oceanfront escape right on Miramar Beach. The rooms feel warm and romantic. Plus, many have fireplaces as well as direct coastal views. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a quiet stay with waves just steps from their door.
Seal Cove Inn – ★★★★★ (9.4/10)
Seal Cove Inn sits beside protected open space near Moss Beach, giving it a peaceful, secluded feel. The coastal trails, cypress groves, and nearby tide pools create a relaxing natural setting. Guests also enjoy spacious rooms, garden views, and easy access to the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve.
Oceano Hotel & Spa – ★★★★★ (9.1/10)
Located at Half Moon Bay Harbor, Oceano Hotel offers large suites with fireplaces, balconies, as well as pretty harbor views. The on-site spa adds a relaxing touch. In addition, boutique shops and restaurants sit right outside the door. It’s ideal for guests who want comfort as well as convenience in a coastal setting.
Mill Rose Inn – ★★★★★ (9.8/10)
Mill Rose Inn is a charming, flower-filled retreat in downtown Half Moon Bay. The décor is elegant and romantic. Plus, the gardens add a peaceful atmosphere throughout the property. It’s perfect for couples, or anyone who prefers a classic bed-and-breakfast experience near the coast.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay – ★★★★★ (9.0/10)
The Ritz-Carlton sits high on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific. It also offers some of the most dramatic views in Northern California. Guests enjoy world-class service, oceanfront trails, fire pits, as well as a luxury spa. It’s the top choice for travelers seeking a full resort-style stay on the San Mateo coastline.
Enjoy the Coastal Beauty of San Mateo County
San Mateo County offers some of the most peaceful and scenic coastline in Northern California. Its beaches, cliffside trails, as well as charming coastal towns give visitors plenty of ways to relax and explore. You can spend the day walking long stretches of sand, watching waves crash against rugged bluffs, or discovering small communities filled with local history as well as coastal character.
With great dining, beautiful viewpoints, and easy access from both San Francisco and Silicon Valley, the region is perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer coastal escape. No matter where you go along this shoreline, you’ll find quiet beauty, dramatic landscapes, and a welcoming coastal atmosphere.
FAQs About San Mateo County
What are the best beaches to visit in San Mateo County?
Half Moon Bay State Beach, Poplar Beach, Montara State Beach, and Pescadero State Beach are among the most popular. Each offers scenic views, coastal trails, and easy access.
Can you swim at San Mateo County beaches?
Some beaches allow swimming, but the water is cold and currents can be strong. Beaches like Miramar and parts of Half Moon Bay are calmer, but visitors should always check conditions first.
When is the best time to visit San Mateo County?
Late summer and early fall offer the warmest and clearest weather. Spring also brings mild temperatures and bright coastal scenery, while winter can be cool and stormy.
Are dogs allowed on San Mateo County beaches?
Many beaches, including Poplar Beach and Miramar Beach, are dog-friendly. Others have restrictions, so it’s best to check local rules before visiting.
What is there to do besides going to the beach?
Visitors can explore downtown areas, hike redwood trails, visit museums, enjoy tide pools, or stop at coastal farms and markets. Scenic drives along Highway 1 are also a popular activity.
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You’re absolutely right — San Mateo surprises so many visitors with how coastal, scenic, and relaxed it feels. Fall generally brings the clearest skies and the warmest beach weather, especially along Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, Montara, and the bluff trails. Late spring is lovely too, but mornings can be foggier. For quieter beaches, Montara State Beach, Bean Hollow, and Gray Whale Cove are fantastic options with fewer crowds and dramatic views. If you share whether you prefer tide pools, long sandy walks, or picnic-friendly spots, I’d be happy to suggest the perfect San Mateo County beaches and coastal stops for your visit!
Wow, this is a very detailed post for anyone who is interested in visiting San Mateo. And I must say that even people who weren’t interested in vacationing in San Mateo would be after reading this beautiful review. There is so much to see and so much to do. The Japanese Garden is especially very beautiful and attractive and the Fly Bay Area offerings are also a must. Who can resist the offer to experience the view of beautiful skylines,well unless those with fear of height of course. This is an awesome piece you’ve written. You did justice to San Matteo.
Thank you 🙂 I am glad you enjoyed! Please come back and visit beach travel destinations when you are ready to plan.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful information on San Mateo. I’m still wondering if this San Mateo is located here on earth because the beauty of this place is beyond total comprehension. I’ll definitely visit someday with my wife. The pictures attached at each paragraph makes it more Appalling and promising. This is great information. Thanks for taking your time to put all these together in one piece of information. Cheer’s
You are welcome. And you and your wife will be in awe, San Mateo is beautiful!
San Mateo is a place to settle down. It has everything you need to enjoy yourself and is still big enough to find work. The surrounding are super pretty and diverse! Restaurant and night life sounds lively as well. I’m not into golfing so I guess my place to go to would be a Seal Point park.
The temperatures are pretty moderate and perfect for living as well.. wounder if they get a lot of rain?
They do not get a lot of rain 🙂 You’ll have to head further north if you want to get substantial rain. Yes, I agree that it is a perfect place to live for sure. I am kinda bias though. Thanks for visiting my San Mateo Travel post.
This is a very good article that was articulately put together! I love beaches and I have been to many in recent years but your article on San Mateo is captivating!
The Japanese Garden, in San Mateo Central Park is one that caught my eye. I must see it during my June holiday season.
I must take my wife to the this beach this year. Maybe I can convert her to beaches lover like myself here because of the beauty.
what is special precaution here?
any place to avoid?
No need to worry about any precautions here or places to avoid. You will be able to enjoy yourselves pretty much care free. Just take the normal precautions you would when traveling anywhere. I am glad you enjoyed my San Mateo Travel post!
Whao, I am exited and i don’t think i can hide it any longer.
This is another heaven on earth; a paradise in disguise. This is a lovely site to check on whenever you want to have rest of mind. The pictures are awesome that i had to bookmark this particular page in order to check back easily. San mateo is a place i have never been but with this lovely review, I am checking on the site soonest
Great, you will love the whole San Mateo County area! Please let me know if I can help in any way with your travel plans.
San Mateo CA is really beautiful at least from the pictures. Have me hoping winter ends a lot quicker so I can chill out at the beach with my family. Looking forward to visiting curry up as I love burritos. Quick question though, is this beach pet friendly? cos I’ll hate to leave my pets behind.
There are so many beaches that are dog friendly in the area. Some require a leash, and some don’t The list for dog friendly beachescan be found here. Please let me know if you have an additional questions 🙂
Hi laehrae, another good post from you that I will, be reading about great, interesting and wonderful places In San Francisco to spend holiday with families, friends and loved ones. It was really, an amazing video that shows all the interesting places, I feel like going to San Mateo right now, but I remember best time to visit is just during my birthday, September
What a great way to celebrate your birthday! Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Dear Leahrae,
Thanks a lot for the informative and insightful travel guide.
To be honest I love beaches and I love to travel. My mom use to tell me when I am a child I will cry and pray to GOD asking “Dear GOD please bring the beach to my city” Lol. That much I love beaches (Beach is 200 kms far away from where I live).
Heard a lot about San Mateo and your travel guide gave me great insights. And while reading your guide I felt like I am in the San Mateo and the images you shared are awesome. The 3.50 minutes video you embedded is super helpful.
After reading your guide San Mateo is ranking top on my list. Thanks a lot for the great walk-through. I am bookmarking your guide for future reference.
Much Success!
Paul
Glad you enjoyed Paul! I love beaches too if you couldn’t already tell 🙂 Thanks for stopping by.
O my Gosh! This place is super cute, and I didn’t even know it exist.Looks like one of those places to visit when you want to rest your mind and soul. I think that even without those adventure options it’s still pretty cool place to see.
BTW., you provided such a great combination of information. Basically, everything you stated is really useful. And love the pictures too.
Thank You so much for putting it all together and sharing.
Bookmarking this website!
I am glad you enjoyed your visit to beach travel destinations! It is a great beach community and I think you will have a wonderful time in San Mateo. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Hi Matt,
Wow, what a beautiful place! To be honest, I have never heard of San Mateo until I read your article. My daughter and her girlfriends want to make a trip and they didn’t know where to go. I have bookmarked this page so I can show her later on. Are there places to avoid there? You know, moms always worry:)
Thank you for this great post!
Yes us moms do worry. But no worries in San Mateo. She just needs to take the normal precautions any young lady would take when traveling 🙂 It is really a beautiful area and her and her girl friends would really enjoy .
Wow! Another beautiful place to visit! More gardens, trails, wines, and night life adventures to explore. Right up my alley! I would really like to see The Japanese Garden, in San Mateo Central Park. Sounds beautiful.
Thanks for sharing,
Devara
You are so welcome Devara! Thank you for visiting my San Mateo Travel review.
Leahrae,
This little area just south of San Francisco can get you to a lot of places quickly. I like to try the Curry Truck, as this is something that I have had several trips to the west coast.
The location is good for getting around in this area, are there any budget hotels in this area.
John
Thanks for visiting my San Mateo Travel review John. Yes, the best budget hotel with a good rating is the Los Prados Hotel. This is going to be your best bet 🙂 Please let me know if you need any additional information.
I have been waiting this whole winter for warm days to come so that I can just go out to the beach and chill. you have laid out great options on your site regarding beach destination. I guess I don’t need any more research for my travel destination as you have nicely detailed everything one need to know. Is San Mateo Japanese Garden good for toddlers? Coz I have a 3 year old and sometimes it’s a challenge if a place is not child friendly.
The Japanese gardens is kid friendly and your toddler will enjoy 🙂 I think this is a great family destination for sure.
San Mateo seems like a place I would enjoy visiting. You covered San Mateo and its activities, hotels, and restaurants very well. Your article is laid out very well and you have a nice website. You cover your topics very well.
Thank you Danny! Come back when you are ready to start planning!
Another mind blowing destination! I’m impressed by the looks of the city, their beaches and the Japanese garden. Can’t wait to visit San Mateo!! Great read, Leahrae!!
Thanks Effie! Glad you enjoyed!