Things To Do
in Foster City
Foster City is a master-planned waterfront community on the San Francisco Bay, famed for its interconnected lagoons, green spaces, and bike-friendly paths. The city exudes a relaxed, family-oriented vibe with ample outdoor recreation and marina views. It sits in San Mateo County, offering easy access to both Silicon Valley and San Francisco while hosting a calm, lakeside atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy scenic strolls along the waterways, casual dining, and quick trips to nearby parks and coastline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll at the Foster City Lagoon, where you can enjoy the serene waters and the picturesque surroundings. Grab a coffee from a local café and take in the beauty of the bay as you watch birds and other wildlife. The cool morning air is perfect for a bit of meditation or just enjoying nature's tranquility.
Head over to the nearby Leo J. Ryan Park for a picnic lunch, where you can savor the delicious food while soaking up the sun. After lunch, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lagoon for an exciting water adventure. Don’t forget to capture some Instagram-worthy shots of the unique skyline views!
As the sun begins to set, find a spot along the waterfront to watch the colorful sunset light up the sky. Opt for dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants to sample fresh, local cuisine. Conclude your day with an evening walk along the shoreline, enjoying the gentle sound of the waves.
Visit the San Mateo County Historical Association to delve into the fascinating history of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the cultural influences that have shaped Foster City. The morning is also a great time to stroll through the nearby parks and enjoy the lush landscapes.
After your cultural experience, explore the shops and boutiques in the nearby San Mateo downtown area for some local treasures. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a trendy café that showcases farm-to-table dishes, highlighting the regional produce. Post-lunch, take a brief hike at the nearby Coyote Point Recreation Area for stunning views and natural beauty.
Return to Foster City for a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant featuring a diverse menu. Enjoy the charming atmosphere while sharing stories about the day's exploration. Wrap up your evening by attending a local event, if available, for a taste of community culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range cafe | $12-25 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week for two | $80-140 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a casual restaurant | $40-70 |
| ⛽Gasoline (full tank) for typical driving | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent outdoor recreation with lagoons, parks, and bay views
- Family-friendly atmosphere and safe neighborhoods
- Easy access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley
- Strong concentration of fresh seafood and farm-to-table options
- Limited nightlife directly in Foster City; more options in nearby towns
- Can be windy and cool near the water at times
- Higher costs typical of the Bay Area
Places to Visit in Foster City
Visit one of these nice places.
The lagoon bridges and calm water create reflective, pastel-light scenes ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Open greens and water vistas with city silhouettes; great for golden hour shots and family portraits.
Bay-facing marina and horizon lines offer nautical textures and wide bayside horizons for dynamic photos.
Food in Foster City
Foster City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Seafood Stew popular in Bay Area restaurants; typically features tomato base with fish, clams, mussels, and crab.
Must-Try!
Seasonal Bay Area favorite, often served steamed with lemon and melted butter; widely available at seafood spots around the peninsula.
Creamy or Manhattan-style chowder common in coastal eateries; a comforting Bay Area staple that pairs well with sourdough bread.
Vegetable-forward plates highlighting locally grown produce; many menus rotate with the seasons across Bay Area restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, seafood, prepared foods, and local crafts; great for picking up snacks and ingredients.
Seasonal market featuring local fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and ready-to-eat options; ideal for a casual stroll and tasting.
Occasional food truck events and park-based stalls around Foster City and nearby towns—great for meeting locals and sampling diverse options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bay Area culture leans casual. Dress comfortably for outdoor activities, but be respectful in more formal settings or religious spaces.
People queue orderly and respect personal space, especially in markets and transit areas.
Keep voices at a moderate level in residential areas; dispose of trash properly and respect park rules.
Yield to pedestrians on shared paths; use bells or verbal cues when passing; wear a helmet when cycling.
Safety
Tipping in Foster City
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in restaurants is 15-20% before tax; smaller tips for counter service. Leave gratuities for hotel staff and taxis as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is usually accepted, but many venues prefer cards for larger bills.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes; occasional showers. Light layers recommended; great time for outdoor photography and park strolls.
Dry and typically warm near the water, with cooler breezes in the evenings. Pack sunscreen and a light jacket for coastal fog banks.
Pleasant days and cooler nights; less rainfall. Ideal for outdoor markets, cycling, and longer lagoon walks.
Cool and wetter conditions with occasional storms. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof shoes; shorter daylight hours.
Foster City at Night
Hiking in Foster City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Redwood-studded trails with shaded sections and rolling hills; a short drive from Foster City with moderate hikes.
Coastal trails with water views, seawalls, and museum/park amenities; offers relatively easy hikes and bike options.
Coastal trail with dramatic ocean vistas; longer hike and occasional steep sections, best for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Foster City by plane.
Major international hub (~15-25 miles from Foster City) with extensive domestic and global connections; accessible by car, rideshare, or regional transit options.
Another Bay Area gateway (~20-35 miles) with domestic routes and shorter security lines; convenient via Bay Area roadways and public transit connections.
South Bay option (~30-40 miles) for domestic and limited international flights; reachable by car or longer transit routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of families attracted by parks, safe neighborhoods, and waterfront recreation.
Diverse cultural mix reflects the broader Bay Area demographics, with many residents of Chinese, Filipino, and other backgrounds.
Proximity to tech and corporate centers in Silicon Valley and the Peninsula attracts professionals who commute to jobs in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on the bayfront with calm waters at many lagoons and nearby marinas; public access and rental options available.
Bay Trail and lagoon paths attract runners and cyclists for scenic workouts.
Local clubs and public courts; nearby golf courses provide seasonal play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Foster City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus include salads, vegetable-forward dishes, pasta, and grain bowls; ask for meat-free broths and cheese restrictions; many places offer vegan options.
Look for clearly labeled vegan dishes or request plant-based substitutions; many Bay Area kitchens accommodate vegan diets with advance notice.
Ask about cross-contamination; many restaurants can prepare gluten-free pasta, bowls, and desserts, and some use dedicated prep areas.