A Community at the Crossroads
Situated perfectly between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, San Mateo offers an exceptional quality of life defined by its diverse neighborhoods and "Mediterranean" microclimate. From the grand, winding streets of San Mateo Park to the waterfront trails of Coyote Point, the city offers a rare blend of suburban tranquility and urban sophistication. Residents enjoy one of the largest and most dynamic downtowns on the Peninsula, serving as a regional hub for dining, commerce, and community events.
The Culinary Scene
Downtown & Hillsdale
A Dining Destination
Downtown San Mateo is widely regarded as the Peninsula's premier dining district. Unlike smaller downtowns, it spans several vibrant blocks filled with historic architecture and modern eateries. Highlights include Michelin-recognized spots like Wakuriya and local favorites like Pausa Bar & Cookery for handmade pasta and charcuterie.
For shopping, the Hillsdale Shopping Center has been reimagined as an open-air luxury destination. The new "North Block" features a Cinépolis luxury theater, bowling at Pinstripes, and a central plaza that hosts weekly community events, fountains, and light shows.
Explore the Dining GuideParks & Recreation
Green space is central to the San Mateo lifestyle. The crown jewel is Central Park, home to the serene Japanese Tea Garden, one of the finest of its kind in California.
Coyote Point Recreation Area
A massive bayfront park offering windsurfing, biking trails, and the CuriOdyssey science museum for families.
Sugarloaf Open Space
For those seeking solitude, the trails at Sugarloaf/Laurelwood offer rugged hiking with panoramic views of the Bay.]
Distinguished Schools
San Mateo is served by the highly-rated San Mateo-Foster City School District and the San Mateo Union High School District, alongside prestigious private institutions.
Top Public Schools
- Aragon High School
Known for academic excellence and athletics. - San Mateo High School
Renowned for its performing arts program. - Baywood Elementary
A top-rated feeder school in the Baywood district. - College Park Elementary
Celebrated for its Mandarin immersion program.
Private Institutions
- The Nueva School
World-class education for gifted learners. - Junipero Serra High School
A historic all-boys Catholic college preparatory. - St. Matthew's Episcopal
Serving students from Pre-K through 8th Grade. - Carey School
A highly respected independent elementary school.
Key Neighborhoods
Baywood-Aragon
Often called the "Beverly Hills of San Mateo," this area features winding tree-lined streets and classic Spanish Colonial and Tudor architecture. It is highly walkable to Downtown.
View Area Guide →San Mateo Park
Designed by the architect of Golden Gate Park, this enclave is famous for its lack of sidewalks, lush landscaping, and grand estate homes that offer maximum privacy.
View Area Guide →Hillsdale
A family-favorite neighborhood known for its mid-century charm, proximity to the shopping center, and walkability to parks and schools.
View Area Guide →Ready to Call San Mateo Home?
Whether you are drawn to the historic estates of Baywood or the waterfront lifestyle at Coyote Point, let Carmen Miranda guide you to your perfect San Mateo residence.
