Things To Do
in South San Francisco
South San Francisco sits on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay, just across from the city of San Francisco. Known as a biotech and business hub, it blends practical suburbia with waterfront trails and modern amenities. The city serves as a convenient base for exploring the Peninsula, Silicon Valley, and the edge of the Marin headlands.
With a growing dining scene, easy access to outdoor spaces, and a friendly, diverse community, SSF is a pragmatic gateway to the Bay Area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of South San Francisco's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the early 20th century buildings. Stop by the South San Francisco History Museum to learn about the city’s rich heritage and its significant role in the development of the Bay Area. As the morning unfolds, grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café to fuel your exploration.
After a morning of history, head to the nearby South City Farmer's Market, where you can browse fresh produce and artisanal goods from local vendors. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, sampling dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Post-lunch, take a walk through the beautifully landscaped parks in the area, soaking in the vibrant community atmosphere.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while overlooking the bay. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, where the stunning views of the San Francisco skyline provide a perfect backdrop. To cap off the evening, find a cozy spot for a nightcap, perhaps at a local bar featuring live music.
Kick off your day with a visit to nearby Oyster Point Park, where you can enjoy a scenic walk along the water's edge. As the sun rises, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters of San Francisco Bay, surrounded by breathtaking views of the city and the rolling hills. This invigorating morning on the water will leave you refreshed and ready for more adventures.
After your morning on the water, head to the beach at Fort Funston, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning ocean views. Spend your afternoon flying kites or simply relaxing in the sun while watching hang gliders soaring above the cliffs. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a guided surf lesson to catch some waves.
As evening approaches, return to South San Francisco and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a popular local seafood restaurant. Enjoy the fresh catch of the day, paired with a glass of local wine. End your day by taking in the sunset at a nearby viewpoint, allowing the colors to wash over the bay and city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-90 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $2,800-4,000 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4.50-6.50 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $120-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong access to outdoor recreation and bayfront scenery
- Proximity to San Francisco and the wider Peninsula for day trips
- Growing dining options with seafood-forward offerings
- Not a nightlife-heavy destination; more low-key evenings
- Traffic can be heavy during peak commute hours
- Somewhat higher costs typical of Bay Area suburbs
Places to Visit in South San Francisco
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterfront views, marina activity, and colorful sunsets over the bay provide classic coastal photography opportunities.
Open trails along the shoreline with skyline glimpses and birds, ideal for morning light and golden hour shots.
Bay-facing cliffs, open meadows, and marina frames offer varied compositions, from wide bays to intimate shoreline scenes.
Vantage points along the water offer dramatic views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco skyline on clear days.
Food in South San Francisco
South San Francisco Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty seafood stew with crab, shrimp, clams, and fish in a tomato broth; a Bay Area staple commonly found in waterfront and Italian-inspired spots.
Must-Try!
Seasonal crab served steamed or grilled, often accompanied by drawn butter and lemon—perfect after a baywalk.
Creamy chowder served in a crusty sourdough bowl, a classic Bay Area favorite that pairs well with harbor views.
Seasonal seafood chowder or light fish sandwiches featuring local catches, common in waterfront eateries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with local produce, seafood, breads, and prepared foods; a great way to sample regional flavors and meet growers.
Seasonal food trucks and pop-up stands near the marina offering quick, seafood-focused bites with bayside ambiance.
A cluster of casual food stalls and cafés in the downtown area, ideal for a quick bite before an evening stroll.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Casual dress is common; greet with a simple hello or hi, and say please and thank you in exchanges with staff and locals.
People value punctuality for meetings and appointments; wait in lines patiently and respect personal space.
Direct but polite communication is typical; private discussions in public spaces are generally acceptable, but avoid overly loud conversations in quiet venues.
Safety
Tipping in South San Francisco
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping is customary at 15-20% before tax for good service. Some larger groups or fine dining may add a service charge. For taxis and rideshares, a 10-15% tip is common. Bar staff and hotel staff appreciate a small tip for service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; good for outdoor photography and trail walks; layer for variable mornings.
Dry, warm days with typical Bay Area fog in the mornings and late afternoons; plenty of outdoor activities, but bring layers for cooler evenings.
Pleasant, crisp days with clearer skies; excellent visibility for city and water photography; sea breeze remains common.
Cool and wetter with occasional storms; gear up for rain-friendly outdoor plans and longer indoor activities.
South San Francisco at Night
Hiking in South San Francisco
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails with bayside views, picnic areas, and easy-to-moderate hikes suitable for families.
Marshland boardwalks and birdwatching with wildlife-friendly routes along the San Francisco Bay.
Forested ridge trails with varied elevations and scenic overlooks; suitable for a half-day hike.
Ridgetop trails with panoramic Bay Area views and native flora; a bit more challenging but rewarding.
Airports
How to reach South San Francisco by plane.
Major international hub located about 12-15 miles north-west, with quick connections to the Bay Area via car, BART, and shuttle services.
Located about 20-25 miles east; convenient for quick connections across the Bay Area and direct Bay Area flights.
Located roughly 40-50 miles south; a viable option for trips to the South Bay and beyond, with sizable domestic and limited international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents work in biotech, tech, and related services, contributing to a diverse, highly educated community.
Suburban neighborhoods with good schools and parks, contributing to a family-friendly vibe in many neighborhoods.
Diverse cultural backgrounds add flavor to local dining, markets, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bay Area culture heavily features baseball heritage with local teams and community leagues accessible within driving distance.
A popular sport in the region; local pickup games and clinics are common in parks and recreation facilities.
Common in community gyms and high school facilities; casual play and local leagues are widely available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting South San Francisco.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bay Area spots offer vegetarian pastas, veggie sides, and plant-based entrées; ask for ‘no meat’ or ‘egg-free’ options. In restaurants, look for clearly labeled vegetarian dishes or request substitutions.