Attractions and Places To See around San Mateo - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around San Mateo include a diverse range of natural spaces, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, the region features significant natural features like reservoirs and parks alongside architectural monuments. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor and cultural points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around San Mateo
- The most popular attraction is Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, a lake that features a 15-mile paved trail with minimal car traffic. It offers scenic views and is popular for cycling and walking.
- Another must-see spot is Kings Mountain Road, a cycle way known for its narrow, twisty descent over 4 miles. It is popular with cyclists for its fast and exhilarating experience.
- Visitors also love San Andreas Lake, a lake that is a natural sag pond formed by the San Andreas Fault and transformed into a reservoir. Its beauty can be enjoyed from the San Andreas Trail or the popular Sawyer Camp Trail.
- San Mateo is known for its diverse natural spaces, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The city offers a variety of parks, museums, and trails for exploration.
- The attractions around San Mateo are appreciated by the komoot community, with 66 upvotes and 6 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Speed limit: 15 mph, difficult for high-end road bikes to stay below, so bring a bell: some hikers stand and talk in the center of the trail ;-)
San Andreas segment: From Skyline Boulevard south of San Bruno Avenue the trail drops to the head of San Andreas Lake, with pretty views across to the west of the wilderness slope of Montara Mountain. It rides along the lake 2 miles to an access point near Larkspur and 0.6 miles to another (at Hillcrest) where it connects to the Sawyer Camp segment.
Sawyer Camp segment: This is a gorgeous, easy bike ride, where you drop 400 feet over the span of 6 miles to Crystal Springs Dam. The route descends into riparian woodlands for 2.5 miles to Jepson Laurel picnic grounds, then runs along Crystal Springs Reservoir for 5.2 miles. You can continue another 1.7 miles to Cañada Road for Bicycle Sunday (no cars).
Cañada Road/Crystal Springs segment: South along Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir for 2.1 miles to the Pulgas Water Temple. It continues another 2.1 miles past Filoli Botanical Center and Phleger Estate to Edgewood Road
sfgate.com/outdoors/sundaydrive/article/Crystal-Springs-Trail-links-lakes-woodlands-4723374.php
parks.smcgov.org/crystal-springs-regional-trail
Tip by
Kings Mountain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
San Andreas Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Pulgas Water Temple
Highlight • Monument
On October 28, 1934, the roar of Hetch Hetchy mountain water greeted everyone gathered at Pulgas Water Temple to celebrate its arrival. With vivid memories of the fire that had raged after the Great Earthquake of 1906, the city rejoiced in its new secure, plentiful supply of high quality drinking water. The frieze above the columns expresses the city’s relief: “I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.”
Pulgas Water Temple was designed in the Beaux Arts style by William Merchant, a San Francisco architect trained by Bernard Maybeck. Merchant’s design featured fluted columns and Corinthian capitals to reflect the architecture of ancient Greeks and Romans, whose engineering methods were used to build the new water system. Artist and master stone carver Albert Bernasconi brought Merchant’s drawings to life.
Pulgas Water Temple is located about one-half mile south of the Cañada Road trailhead.
Open free to bikers & pedestrians every day, car parking opens only M-F 9-4
sfwater.org/index.aspx?page=93
Biketrail with more highlights and annotated photos at komoot.com/tour/11413421
Tip by
Oracle Lagoon
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around San Mateo.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A fun, pretty place to stop while riding Cañada road. I has water and an air pump and bathrooms. Take a photo with friends.
0
0
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
0
0
San Andreas Lake is a hidden gem tucked into the hills of San Mateo County, just south of San Francisco. Originally a natural sag pond formed by the San Andreas Fault, it was transformed into a reservoir in the late 1800s and now serves as a vital water source for the region. The lake is off-limits for swimming or boating, but you can enjoy its peaceful beauty from the San Andreas Trail or the popular Sawyer Camp Trail, which runs along its eastern edge. It's a serene spot where you can walk or bike with sweeping views of the water and surrounding hills, all while standing right on one of the world’s most famous fault lines. Despite its proximity to urban life, San Andreas Lake offers a quiet, scenic escape steeped in natural and historical significance.
1
0
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
0
0
You're not hallucinating: This monument was deliberately built in the style of ancient Greek and Roman architecture, to commemorate the Great Depression-era Hetchy Hetchy Project that brought water down from the mountains to the Bay Area. The frieze says, “I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.”
1
0
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
0
0
The Crystal Springs Regional Trail is a top spot for cyclists, featuring mostly paved paths with minimal car traffic. The trail runs through scenic areas like Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, offering beautiful lake views. On Sundays, you can ride the car-free Cañada Road segment for a more relaxed experience. Be mindful of the 15 mph speed limit, especially around hikers. The Sawyer Camp segment provides a gentle descent and stunning views, perfect for an easy ride through woodlands and along the reservoir.
0
1
This small lagoon offers an excellent photo opportunity for visitors and photographers alike. Its calm, crystal-clear waters create a stunning mirror-like reflection of the iconic Oracle Buildings that surround it. The tranquil setting, combined with the striking architecture, makes it an ideal spot to capture breathtaking images, especially during sunrise and sunset.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around San Mateo?
San Mateo offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, which features a 15-mile paved trail perfect for cycling and walking with scenic views. Another beautiful spot is San Andreas Lake, a reservoir formed by the San Andreas Fault, offering peaceful views from the San Andreas Trail or Sawyer Camp Trail. Additionally, Coyote Point Recreation Area provides waterfront views, sandy shores, and trails along the San Francisco Bay.
Are there good hiking trails near San Mateo?
Yes, San Mateo has several excellent hiking opportunities. The Sawyer Camp Trail, part of the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, offers a scenic 6-mile paved path along the Crystal Springs Reservoir. Laurelwood Park features hiking trails that lead to Sugarloaf Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Bay Area. For more options, you can explore various Hiking routes around San Mateo.
What historical sites can I visit in the San Mateo area?
The region is rich in history. The Pulgas Water Temple is an architectural marvel designed in Beaux Arts style, commemorating the Hetch Hetchy Project. You can also explore the San Mateo County History Museum, housed in the historic Redwood City Courthouse, or visit the Sanchez Adobe Historic Site, one of the oldest buildings in the county, offering insights into early Californian life.
What cycling opportunities are available around San Mateo?
San Mateo is a great area for cyclists. Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir offers a mostly paved, car-free trail, especially on Sundays when Cañada Road is closed for Bicycle Sundays. Kings Mountain Road is popular among experienced cyclists for its challenging, twisty descent. You can find more detailed routes and options in the Road Cycling Routes around San Mateo guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in San Mateo?
Absolutely! Coyote Point Recreation Area is a family favorite with its Magic Mountain Playground, sandy shores, and picnic areas. Central Park also offers playgrounds, open lawns, and a mini-train for children, alongside the serene Japanese Tea Garden. Many trails, like the Sawyer Camp segment of the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, are also suitable for families.
Where can I find scenic views in San Mateo?
For breathtaking views, head to Seal Point Park, which offers panoramic vistas of the San Francisco Bay. The trails leading up to Sugarloaf Mountain from Laurelwood Park also provide expansive views of the Bay Area. The Sawyer Camp Trail along San Andreas Lake and Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir also offer picturesque lake views.
Are there any unique or lesser-known spots to visit?
Beyond the well-known attractions, consider visiting the Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia for a quirky collection. The Pulgas Water Temple, while a landmark, offers a unique blend of history and architecture in a tranquil setting. The Oracle Lagoon provides a unique photo opportunity with its reflections of the Oracle Buildings.
What cultural attractions does San Mateo offer?
San Mateo boasts several cultural attractions. The San Mateo County History Museum provides a deep dive into the region's past. Filoli Estate and Gardens offers a glimpse into early 20th-century grandeur with its historic house and meticulously maintained gardens. The Central Park Japanese Tea Garden is a serene spot symbolizing cultural exchange.
Are there wheelchair-accessible attractions in San Mateo?
Yes, several attractions in San Mateo are wheelchair-accessible. The Oracle Lagoon is noted for its accessibility. Many paved sections of the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, including parts along Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, are generally accessible. It's always a good idea to check specific site details for the most current accessibility information.
When is the best time to visit San Mateo attractions?
San Mateo enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for visiting attractions throughout the year. Spring and fall often offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and exploring gardens like Filoli. Summer is great for waterfront parks, while winter can still be enjoyable for museums and less strenuous outdoor walks, especially on clear days.
Are there dog-friendly parks or trails in San Mateo?
Yes, San Mateo offers several dog-friendly options. Seal Point Park is known for its dedicated dog park and walking paths where leashed dogs are welcome. Many of the regional trails, including sections of the Sawyer Camp Trail, are also dog-friendly, though it's always best to check specific park rules regarding leash requirements and waste disposal.
What can I do for outdoor activities beyond hiking and cycling?
Beyond hiking and cycling, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Coyote Point Recreation Area is excellent for picnicking, birdwatching, and enjoying the bayfront. Seal Point Park is popular for kite flying and offers scenic walks. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are several MTB Trails around San Mateo, including routes in Waterdog Lake Park.
Most popular routes around San Mateo
Most popular attractions around San Mateo
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
