Things To Do
in Belmont

Belmont, United States sits on the San Francisco Peninsula just south of San Francisco and north of Half Moon Bay, offering a calm suburban vibe with easy access to parks and nature. The town is known for tree-lined streets, good schools, and family-friendly neighborhoods, making it a comfortable base for exploring the Bay Area. Its proximity to San Mateo, Burlingame, and San Carlos means quick trips to the coast, cities, and tech hubs.

Visitors enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic views, and convenient access to outdoor spaces and paved trails along the peninsula.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Belmont, savoring freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, where charming architecture and quaint shops await. Make sure to visit the Belmont Historical Society to learn about the town's rich history.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try one of the popular eateries offering a range of cuisines, from Italian to Mexican. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Belmont Park for a relaxing afternoon among the trees and trails, where you can enjoy a short hike or a picnic. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local art galleries showcasing the work of community artists.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to one of the local restaurants for a delightful dinner featuring seasonal ingredients and local wines. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the waterfront, soaking in the stunning views of the bay. Wrap up your evening with a visit to a nearby live music venue for an entertaining performance by local artists.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Excursion
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before departing for the nearby Coyote Point Recreation Area, where you can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. Spend the morning exploring the trails and observing the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area, including birds and other local fauna. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.

afternoon
:

After a morning in nature, stop for a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within Coyote Point, enjoying the fresh air and serene surroundings. Post-lunch, visit the Coyote Point Museum to learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts in place. Take some time to relax on the beach or engage in fun activities like kite flying or frisbee.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, make your way back to Belmont and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes. After dinner, consider a stroll through a nearby park, taking in the peaceful ambiance under the stars. Conclude your day with a warm drink at a local café, reflecting on your day's adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-20
🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🏡1-bedroom apartment in city center per month$2,400-3,200
🚗Gas per gallon$4-5
🛒Grocery bill for 1 week$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, family-friendly base with quick access to San Francisco, the Peninsula, and the coast
  • Close to parks, hiking trails, and outdoor spaces
  • Limited nightlife and dining options within Belmont itself
  • Evenings and weekends often require travel to nearby towns for more activities

Places to Visit in Belmont

Visit one of these nice places.

Crystal Springs Reservoir Vista Point

Expansive water and hill vistas; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.

Belmont residential streets

Tree-lined avenues and classic Bay Area architecture provide mood-filled street photography opportunities.

Hiller Aviation Museum exterior

Contemporary architecture with aviation backdrop; good for architectural and travel imagery.

San Mateo Bay shoreline viewpoints nearby

Open water views and sunsets along the bay, just a short drive from Belmont.

Culinary Guide

Food in Belmont

Belmont is part of the Bay Area culinary tapestry, where seafood, farm-to-table fare, and global influences converge. Expect fresh produce, diverse flavors, and casual dining options within a short drive in neighboring towns.

Belmont Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cioppino

A fragrant seafood stew with Dungeness crab, clams, and fish in a tomato broth; a Bay Area staple at coastal-inspired eateries.

Must-Try!

Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl

Creamy chowder served in a crusty sourdough bowl, a classic coastal California treat.

Seasonal Farm-to-Table Bowl

A veggie-forward or protein-forward bowl featuring locally sourced vegetables and grains.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Belmont Area Market (nearby)

Local farmers market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods; schedules vary—check nearby San Mateo or Burlingame markets.

Peninsula Food Trucks & Pop-Ups

Rotating food trucks and pop-up eateries gather at plazas and events across the Peninsula, great for casual bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Belmont enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. Coastal fog is common in summer mornings and evenings, creating cooler conditions than inland areas; temperatures typically range from the 60s to low 70s F (15-22 C).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Be punctual for appointments and reservations; it’s valued in business and social settings.

Tipping etiquette

Tipping is standard for service workers; always leave a tip in restaurants and bars.

Queueing and courtesy

Wait your turn in lines and in shops; friendly greetings are common in local cafes and stores.

Safety Guide

Safety

Belmont is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply: lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and stay aware of weather-related hazards and general Bay Area safety guidelines.

Tipping in Belmont

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In the US, tipping 15-20% at restaurants is customary; tip bartenders and service staff accordingly. For takeout, tipping is not required but appreciated for larger orders.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is always an option.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry and mild days with cooler evenings; coastal fog can appear inland. Pack layers and sunscreen; plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon.

Fall

Warm days and crisp nights; clear skies offer excellent visibility for outdoor activities and photography.

Winter

Rain is possible, with mild temperatures. Bring a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear for trails and city strolls.

Spring

Greener landscapes and blooming flowers; comfortable hiking weather with moderate crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Belmont at Night

Belmont itself is quiet at night, with a handful of casual bars and coffeehouses offering live music. For more nightlife options, head to nearby towns such as Redwood City, Burlingame, or San Mateo, which offer a broader mix of pubs, wine lounges, and small music venues.

Hiking in Belmont

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Crystal Springs Trail

Rail-trail with reservoir views and gentle to moderate terrain.

Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve

Meadow and woodland trails with seasonal wildflowers and expansive views.

Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

Redwood forest trails with several loop options; slightly farther yet highly rewarding.

Airports

How to reach Belmont by plane.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Major international hub about 20-25 miles north.

Oakland International Airport (OAK)

Approximately 25-35 miles northeast; many domestic flights.

San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Around 25-40 miles south; convenient for Bay Area access.

Getting Around

Walkability

Belmont is walkable in its core neighborhoods with sidewalks and parks, but many amenities are spread across the Peninsula and a car is helpful for exploring nearby towns and using transit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strong schools and safe neighborhoods attract families.

Young Professionals

Many commute to Silicon Valley or San Francisco for work.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods with access to trails and healthcare facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Bay Area culture includes baseball at all levels; local parks host pickup games and youth leagues.

Basketball

Common in community centers and school gyms; popular for pickup games and rec leagues.

Soccer

Widely played in parks and clubs; weekend leagues and recreational programs are available.

Transportation

Traffic

Peninsula traffic can be heavy during weekday commutes. Public transit like Caltrain and local buses offer alternatives, but many trips still rely on cars, especially during peak hours on major corridors like US-101 and I-280.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Belmont.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most Belmont-area venues offer vegetarian options. Look for veggie bowls, salads, pastas, and plant-based dishes; ask for modifications if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in nearby San Mateo and Redwood City, with several clinics and hospitals. Residents rely on a mix of primary care, urgent care, and specialty services; emergency care is available at local hospitals.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide