What to do in San Mateo, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

Coyote Point Park featuring a garden
Coyote Point Park featuring cycling as well as a small group of people
Coyote Point Park showing sailing and general coastal views
Coyote Point Park showing sailing and a bay or harbour
Coyote Point Park which includes a garden

San Mateo Tourist Attractions & Activities

If you’re searching for an exciting holiday, count on Expedia.com.au to help you find interesting attractions, enlightening experiences, and tons of other fun things to do in San Mateo AU$16. From first-rate tours to incredible deals on sightseeing trips – our extensive selection of local things to do and places to visit is just a few clicks away.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re travelling alone, alongside your main squeeze, or with your favourite friends or family members, Expedia has the inside scoop on what to see and do while in this corner of the world. And our search tool makes it simple to score the best deals around. So regardless of if you are on a tight budget or prefer to spare no expense, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for by browsing over 31 activities in San Mateo, San Francisco.

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What to do in San Mateo


Discover the most popular places to visit in San Mateo

Explore areas of San Mateo

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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.

North Central
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East San Mateo

If you're spending some time in East San Mateo, San Francisco Bay and Elmar Beach are top sights worth seeing.

East San Mateo
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South San Mateo

While visiting South San Mateo, you might make a stop by sights like Hillsdale Shopping Center and San Mateo County Event Center.

South San Mateo
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Central San Mateo

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

Central San Mateo
Coyote Point Park featuring a garden

Shoreview

3/5(5 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Shoreview, San Francisco Bay and Poplar Creek Golf Course are top sights worth seeing.

Shoreview
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Hayward Park

While Hayward Park isn't home to many top sights, San Mateo County Event Center and Hillsdale Shopping Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Hayward 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.

 


 

Day trip destinations from San Mateo

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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