Historical attractions in San Mateo, California

Welcome to San Onofre Bluffs Campground Nestled along the picturesque sandstone bluffs of Southern California, San Onofre Bluffs Campground offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts, surfers, and families alike. Located just three miles south of San Clemente on I-5 at Basilone Road, this beloved destination is part of the renowned San Onofre State Beach, one of California’s top five most-visited state parks.

Welcome to San Onofre Beach Campground Located at Old Highway 101, San Clemente, California, San Onofre Beach Campground offers a quintessential Southern California outdoor experience. Nestled just three miles south of San Clemente off I-5, this popular destination is a haven for surfers, campers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Laurelwood Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 3471 Glendora Drive in San Mateo, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush greenery, scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a relaxing picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of the surroundings, Laurelwood Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of San Mateo!

Coyote Point Recreation Area is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 1701 Coyote Point Drive in San Mateo, California, United States. This stunning waterfront park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, a marina, and a beach for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the CuriOdyssey science and wildlife center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled outing, Coyote Point Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Coastside History Museum, located at 505 Johnston Street in Half Moon Bay, California, is a popular tourist attraction showcasing the history of the San Mateo Coastside. The museum features exhibits on the Ohlone period, farming, surfing, railroads, and the diverse cultures of the area. Visitors can also explore the historic 1919 Jail on the property, which remains open for tours and cell-fies. The museum is ADA accessible and open on weekends from 11am-3pm, as well as during Make it Main Thursday evenings and select weekdays when docents are available. The museum's construction was completed in June 2023, with exhibits highlighting local artifacts and the history of the Coastside. Additionally, the museum plans to restore the jail cells to their original state for visitors to experience. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this fascinating institution and learn about the rich heritage of the Half Moon Bay area.

Rancho Corral de Tierra is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located on Frenchmans Creek Road in Half Moon Bay, California. This 3,858-acre site offers stunning views, important watersheds, miles of public trails, and diverse wildlife. Preserving over 80,000 acres of parkland, Rancho is one of the largest undeveloped parcels of land on the San Mateo peninsula. Once planned for development, this land is now protected as part of our nation's natural legacy. As the National Park Service takes on management of Rancho, the Parks Conservancy is working with the community to improve trails, trailheads, and trail connections. The property, historically known as “Rancho Corral de Tierra (Earthen Corral) Palomares,” has a rich history dating back to the 1839 Mexican Land Grant to Francisco Guerrero y Palomares.

Located in Historic Pescadero on California’s scenic San Mateo Coast, Pescadero Creek Inn offers a serene and tranquil country setting to escape life’s hectic pace. Whether it is a hike through towering redwoods or a stroll on a deserted white sand beach, Pescadero will soothe your soul. Midway between Santa Cruz and San Francisco, it is a wonderful trip down Pacific Coast Highway. Relax in front of a beautiful stone fireplace in the century-old farmhouse or nap in a hammock by the side of Pescadero Creek. Enjoy the spacious decks overlooking the creek and listen to the water go by, and with it goes your cares and worries. Redwoods are a bicycle ride away, while Pigeon Point Lighthouse, elephant seals at Año Nuevo, or walks on long deserted white sand beaches are a short drive. Golfing, horseback riding, wine tasting, whale watching, and fishing may all be found nearby.

The Pasetta House, located in San Jose, California, is a historic museum and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the life of the Pasetta family. Built in a neo-classic rowhouse style, the house was occupied by Mateo Pasetta and his nine children. Mateo, originally from Yugoslavia, arrived in the United States in 1882 and settled in San Jose in 1896, where he became a prominent figure in the fruit drying industry. The house was generously donated to the Museum by his grandson, Robert J. Bettencourt. Please note that the Pasetta House was unfortunately damaged by a fire in March 2023 and is currently closed for restoration.

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit, a serene park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Felton, California. Located at 1101 Felton Empire Road, this enchanting destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore the Trails: The Fall Creek Unit is a second-growth redwood forest featuring nearly twenty miles of interconnected trails. Wander through fern-lined river canyons and discover remnants of the area's lime-processing heritage. This area is open for day use only, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

Welcome to Atomic Sands Trail, a stunning natural getaway located along the Old Pacific Highway in San Onofre, California. Nestled just three miles south of San Clemente, our park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As one of California's top five most-visited state parks, San Onofre State Beach attracts nearly 2.5 million visitors annually, thanks to its diverse recreational offerings and breathtaking coastal scenery. San Onofre State Beach is renowned for its three distinct areas: San Onofre Bluffs, San Mateo Campground, and San Onofre Surf Beach. Each area offers unique experiences, from world-class surfing and serene nature trails to breathtaking views of sandstone bluffs and diverse wildlife, including occasional sightings of whales, dolphins, and sea lions offshore.