Welcome to San Mateo
Abundant natural beauty and an electrifying downtown district characterize the county seat of San Mateo
San Mateo is the heart and soul of the San Francisco Peninsula. Once inhabited by Ohlone Indians before Spanish explorers discovered it in the 18th century, the vibrant city offers the best of two worlds: The serenity and open spaces of the suburbs and an unquestionably lively, metropolitan ambiance.
San Mateo is coveted for countless reasons, but chief among them is its dynamic personality, seamless melding with nature, and fantastic weather. It’s located just south of San Francisco, but it’s far enough away to escape some of “the city’s” notorious fog. As such, residents here enjoy plenty of time outside — playing in parks, hiking, mountain biking on nearby trails, and golfing at San Mateo’s pristine and distinguished private country club.
What to Love
- Ideally situated near Silicon Valley’s leading technology hubs
- Prime San Mateo, CA real estate and homes for sale in the area
- Proximity to Stanford University and Daly City
- Brimming with excellent bars, restaurants, and retailers
Local Lifestyle - Living in San Mateo, CA
A huge part of San Mateo’s allure is that it attracts a wide range of residents. Whether you’re a parent with young children, a retiree who enjoys being part of a lively community, a single professional, or an artist who thrives around outstanding views of natural landscapes, you’re certain to be pleased by the hospitality you’ll find in this friendly city. Chances are solid you’ll run into your neighbors downtown or savor time outside in one of San Mateo’s spacious, well-kept parks.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment in San Mateo
The San Francisco Bay Area is famous for its fabulous cuisine. San Mateo is no exception, and people from around the Peninsula and city flock to the town for its culinary offerings. All Spice is one of the most popular. For a good reason, too: the chic, cheerful spot features some of the most delectable Indian fare in Northern California. Truffle-chili shrimp mousse with fennels, apples, saffron rouille, lentil-topped paneer, and mint chocolate budino with cardamom milk are just three of the dishes you’ll find on their stellar menu.
Cravings for perfectly-cooked, dry-aged steaks and melt-in-your-mouth seafood are amply satisfied at Porterhouse. The modern interior of the trendy Pausa Bar & Cookery sets the stage for superb Italian dishes and inventive craft cocktails. Here, you can kick off your night with porchetta with rosemary, thyme, and sage, split an artisan pizza with sweet Calabrese salami, and conclude your evening with a slice of pistachio cake with white chocolate creme fraiche.
Shopping in Downtown San Mateo is just as exciting. Independent boutiques and well-known retailers line its streets, where you’ll also find small businesses, gyms and studios, jewelry stores, and coffee houses.
Things to Do in San Mateo
Neither boredom nor monotony is an option for San Mateo: Activities ranging from serene to exhilarating are available. That said, it’s safe to say that many of your activities – at least those enjoyed under the sun – will likely be had at the town’s legendary San Mateo Central Park. The 16-acre expanse of land boasts several ways to have a blast, from playing baseball on its fields to twirling around its ice skating rink in the winter. You’ll also find the San Mateo Arboretum here, which features a gorgeous rose garden and a copse of heritage trees.
Several of the Bay Area’s most thrilling outdoor adventures are also accessible to San Mateo residents. To wit: Seal Point Park, a glorious area ideal for windsurfing, and Laurelwood Park, a 225-acre expanse of untouched land filled with first-rate trails.
Schools
Children who reside in San Mateo may have the opportunity to attend one of several well-regarded schools, such as:
