Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula
The Quintessential NorCal Experience: All in One Place
The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit. From there, discover the California dream: rugged coastline, redwood groves, sublime beaches, and historic downtowns where globally inspired cuisine reflects the diversity of the communities.
The Quintessential NorCal Experience: All in One Place
“Gooooalllll” If you’ve scored tickets to a World Cup match, congratulations. Now score again by making The San Francisco Peninsula your home base for convenient access to sporting events and iconic Golden State experiences—no hotel hopping needed.
Coasting Through Redwoods and Oceanfront Towns
Get the most out of the coast with Pacific beaches, scenic drives, and oceanfront hiking, all paired with charming stops in small coastal towns.
Take the exit and head west, where Highway 1 becomes a ribbon of road tracing the Pacific. Wander sun- and salt-kissed stretches of Half Moon Bay State Beach, then go tidepooling for starfish and other colorful sea creatures at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve.
Go big with some pure coastal drama! Año Nuevo State Park is home to one of the largest elephant seal colonies in the world. Take a short hike that includes a stretch of beach where you might spot these sleeping beauties (emphasis on big!), along with plenty of other marine life and seabirds.
Think once you’ve been to one Taco Bell, you’ve been to them all? Surprise! The Taco Bell Cantina in Pacifica (aka the “World’s Most Beautiful Taco Bell”) comes with ocean breezes, crashing waves, and front-row seats to one of the Bay Area’s best beaches. Linda Mar Beach is just steps away, serving up huge ocean views and plenty of the area's famed surf culture. This Taco Bell also serves beer, wine, and frozen cocktails. Pair a Crunchwrap Supreme with a Pacific sunset, and you’ve got one of the Bay Area’s most golden happy hours.
On the Peninsula, outdoor adventure is never far from city life. The San Francisco Bay Trail is a classic for birding, biking, and blissful bayside serenity.
Ride through three cities from Coyote Point to Redwood Shores on the mostly paved Bay Trail, where shorebirds bring the surrounding wetlands to life.
Part of the San Francisco Bay Trail, 33-acre Oyster Point Park pairs beautiful Bay views with paved paths for walking, jogging, and biking. Bring a picnic, grab a seat at one of the waterfront tables, and soak up the scenery.
Witness the beauty and quiet power of majestic redwood groves in nearby parks and preserves. In the upscale-rustic enclave of Woodside, Wunderlich Park puts redwoods on parade amid mixed evergreen woodland.
Small Towns, Big Flavor
The San Francisco Peninsula is a tapestry of diverse communities, and that richness shines through in its food and culture. Fresh-from-California cuisine and globally influenced flavors fill historic downtowns and friendly neighborhoods.
Stroll Half Moon Bay’s Victorian Main Street, explore Burlingame’s old-school charm, or visit San Mateo’s tranquil Japanese Tea Garden. Don’t miss the legendary olallieberry pie at Duarte’s Tavern in Pescadero.
Whether you’re a devoted wine fan or just along for the sip, the Peninsula delivers vineyard views, relaxed tastings, and plenty of pours close to San Francisco.
When it comes to dining, expect everything from casual gems to Michelin-acclaimed splurges.
BONUS: Get fired up for the culinary event of the summer. Heritage Fire (July 26) brings together top local chefs for a feast of live-fire cooking, expertly crafted bites, and perfectly paired beverages. Taste your way through the event, cast your vote for your favorite chef, and watch the competition heat up. One culinary standout will earn the title of Heritage Hero and move on to the Heritage Hero Grand Final to compete for Grand Champion honors.
Guide to San Francisco Peninsula Food & Drinks
Build Your Own San Francisco Peninsula Adventure
Find curated itineraries and inspiration with The San Francisco Peninsula’s Mindtrip guides. These helpful planning tools make it easy to pinpoint your ideal explorations and discoveries. Go beyond the freeway with carefully curated ideas for outdoor adventures, flavorful food experiences, and memory-making moments across the Peninsula.
