Things To Do
in San Carlos
San Carlos sits on the San Francisco Peninsula in San Mateo County, about halfway between San Francisco and Silicon Valley. This family-friendly suburb features a compact, walkable downtown, good schools, and a strong sense of community. Outdoor spaces like Central Park and nearby preserves offer quick escapes, while the Hiller Aviation Museum adds a unique attraction for all ages.
With easy access to Caltrain and major highways, San Carlos serves as a calm base for Bay Area exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a brisk walk along the stunning San Carlos coastline. The fresh ocean breeze and the sound of waves crashing set a serene backdrop for reflection. Grab a coffee from a local café and enjoy the view.
Spend the afternoon at the nearby marina, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the beautiful waters. The scenery is picturesque, with cliffs and sandy beaches framing your journey. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the secluded beaches.
As the sun sets, indulge in a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Watch as the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, reflecting off the water. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Kick off your cultural exploration with a visit to the local art gallery showcasing works from regional artists. Spend some time wandering through the exhibits, and perhaps engage with an artist during a workshop. The morning is a great time to appreciate creativity before the crowds arrive.
After lunch at a charming bistro, head to the San Carlos Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of the area. The exhibits provide fascinating insights into the town's transformation over the decades. Engage with friendly museum staff for a deeper understanding of local heritage.
Cap off your cultural day by attending a live performance at a local theater. Enjoy a mix of genres, from theater productions to musical concerts, ensuring a memorable experience. After the show, unwind with dessert at a nearby café while discussing the performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $150-260 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (one-way) | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly with a walkable downtown
- Strong access to Bay Area via Caltrain and highways
- Good schools and safe neighborhoods
- Access to diverse dining and outdoor spaces
- Less nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Commuter traffic can be heavy during peak hours
- Prices reflect the Bay Area cost of living
- Smaller scale of attractions compared to bigger nearby cities
Places to Visit in San Carlos
Visit one of these nice places.
The museum’s exterior and surrounding aircraft displays provide dramatic angles and tech-focused photo opportunities.
Historic storefronts, brick facades, and street activity create great candid and architectural shots, especially at golden hour.
Trail overlooks and wooded scenes offer nature photography and bay views from higher elevations.
Waterfront views and sailboats along the San Francisco Bay provide tranquil landscape photography.
Food in San Carlos
San Carlos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder served in a crusty sourdough loaf, a Bay Area classic.
Must-Try!
A seafood stew inspired by San Francisco’s fishing heritage, perfect with crusty bread.
Lightly battered fish with fresh toppings, often served with salsa and lime.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, prepared foods, and local crafts near Main Street on select days.
A rotating mix of vendors offering street-food favorites and local bites on weekend afternoons.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and friendly in social interactions. A simple greeting like hello or good morning is appreciated.
Tipping is standard; keep cash handy for tips; use polite language and respect personal space in queues and public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in San Carlos
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, a 15-20% tip is customary in restaurants for good service; you may tip higher for exceptional service. Bar tenders, delivery drivers, and hotel staff may receive tips as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always helpful for small vendors. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are commonly accepted at most retailers and eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, mild to warm days with cooler evenings; mornings can be foggy, especially near the coast, so bring a light jacket. Outdoor activities are popular, and menus lean into fresh seafood and salads.
Comfortable temperatures and sunny days; early evenings start to cool; great time for hiking and outdoor dining.
Mild, wetter weather with occasional rain; expect cooler temperatures and damp trails—pack a rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Generally mild with blooming landscapes; ideal for park visits, farmers markets, and outdoor festivals.
San Carlos at Night
Hiking in San Carlos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of scenic trails with bay views and shaded canopies in the nearby hills.
Popular for wildflowers, wildlife viewing, and scenic overlook trails.
Waterfront trails with long-distance views and picnic areas.
Airports
How to reach San Carlos by plane.
Major international airport about 20-30 miles north, accessible by the Bay Area rapid transit network, car, or ride-share.
South Bay option about 25-35 miles southeast, connected by highways and Caltrain.
Accessible option in the East Bay about 25-30 miles northeast, with short domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population consists of families in residential neighborhoods near good schools.
Many residents commute to tech hubs and offer a mix of offices and co-working spaces in the Peninsula.
A diverse mix with access to community colleges and local services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local parks and community leagues; public courts can be found around schools and parks.
Youth and adult leagues are abundant in parks and recreation centers.
Bay Trail and Peninsula routes attract runners and cyclists of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Carlos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many downtown spots offer vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and veggie-filled tacos. When in doubt, ask for house-made veggie substitutes or substitutions like beans, roasted vegetables, or plant-based proteins.