South San Francisco Travel Guide

Plan your ultimate trip to South San Francisco with our guide that covers everything you need to know, from the best places to visit to the local culture and customs.


If you’re looking for an exciting destination in the Bay Area, look no further than South San Francisco. This beautiful city is located in Peninsula, California, and offers a wide variety of cultural, outdoor, and historic attractions that are perfect for any type of traveler. From breathtaking scenic views to interesting museums, South San Francisco has something for everyone.

Introduction to South San Francisco

South San Francisco is a vibrant city known for its beautiful weather, exciting attractions, and friendly locals. The city is situated just minutes from San Francisco and boasts breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding mountains. With a rich cultural heritage and a bustling downtown area, South San Francisco is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

List of Places to Visit in South San Francisco

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural heritage or taking in the natural beauty of the area, South San Francisco has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. Here are some of the top places to visit in South San Francisco:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Cypress Lawn Memorial Park - This beautiful memorial park is home to over 200,000 burials and features stunning historic sculptures and gardens.

  2. Hillside Boulevard Historic District – This historic residential district features beautiful Victorian houses and picturesque tree-lined streets.

  3. Museum of the City of South San Francisco – This museum showcases the city’s rich history and heritage, including exhibits on its thriving shipping industry and the role of the local Portuguese community.

Natural Attractions of South San Francisco: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. San Bruno Mountain State Park - This beautiful state park boasts miles of hiking trails and breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

  2. Oyster Point Marina/Park – This waterfront park offers fantastic views of the bay and surrounding mountains, as well as fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.

  3. Sawyer Camp Trail – This scenic trail follows the shoreline of the Crystal Springs Reservoir and is perfect for hiking, biking, or picnicking with the family.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South San Francisco

Adventurous travelers will love exploring the city’s many hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the top routes:

  1. San Bruno Mountain State Park - This park has more than a dozen hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.

  2. Sawyer Camp Trail – This 6-mile trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or picnicking with the family.

  3. Mori Point Trail – This scenic trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is perfect for hiking or taking a leisurely stroll.

Best Things to Do in South San Francisco: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of activities and tours to keep you entertained in South San Francisco. Here are some of the best:

  1. Bay Voyager – Take a small-group tour of the bay on a high-speed RIB boat and explore San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks and hidden spots.

  2. GoKart Racer – Get your adrenaline going with a visit to this exciting indoor go-kart racing facility.

  3. Amazing scavenger hunt adventure – Explore the city’s historic sites and landmarks while solving fun puzzles and challenges along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for South San Francisco

If you have a whole week to explore South San Francisco, you won’t be disappointed. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Museum of the City of South San Francisco, followed by a scenic stroll through the Hillside Boulevard Historic District.
Day 2 Explore San Bruno Mountain State Park on a guided hike, taking in the stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
Day 3 Take a scenic drive to Golden Gate Park in San Francisco and spend the day exploring the park’s many attractions, including museums, gardens, and the San Francisco Zoo.
Day 4 Visit the Oyster Point Marina and Park, where you can enjoy fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.
Day 5 Take a high-speed boat tour of the bay with Bay Voyager, exploring Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the many landmarks that make San Francisco famous.
Day 6 Go on a bike ride along the Sawyer Camp Trail, stopping for a picnic lunch along the way.
Day 7 Take a day trip to the famous wine country in Napa Valley, where you can sample some of California’s finest wines and explore the beautiful vineyards.

Food and Drink Scene of South San Francisco

South San Francisco offers a diverse and exciting food and drink scene, with something tasty for every palate. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Crab Louie Salad - This locally sourced dish features fresh Dungeness crab and a variety of vegetables in a tangy dressing.

  2. Cioppino – This hearty Italian seafood stew is a local favorite, featuring fresh-caught seafood and vegetables in a tomato-based broth.

  3. California Sushi Rolls – These unique sushi rolls are filled with fresh avocado, crabmeat, and cucumber, and are a local specialty.

Local Beverages

  1. Anchor Steam Beer – This iconic San Francisco beer is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.

  2. Wine – California is famous for its wines, and South San Francisco is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local vintages during your visit.

Where to Stay in South San Francisco: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South San Francisco offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay include:

  1. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfront – This luxurious and modern hotel offers breathtaking views of the bay and is just minutes from many of the city’s top attractions.

  2. AC Hotel San Francisco Airport/Oyster Point Waterfront – This stylish hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay just a short distance from the city’s many natural attractions.

  3. Green Tortoise Hostel San Francisco – This budget-friendly hostel is located near the city center and offers a comfortable and fun stay.

What to Buy in South San Francisco: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, South San Francisco has plenty to offer. Some of the best options include:

  1. Local Wine and Beer – Bring home a bottle or two of California’s famous wines or San Francisco’s finest beers.

  2. Artisanal Chocolates – South San Francisco is known for its delicious artisanal chocolates, which make for a great gift or treat for yourself.

  3. Local Crafts and Jewelry – Browse the many local shops and pick up a unique piece of handcrafted jewelry or other artisanal item.

Local Culture and Customs of South San Francisco

South San Francisco is known for its friendly locals and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors should be respectful of the city’s many customs and traditions, including:

  • Respecting the city’s religious and cultural landmarks and monuments.
  • Being courteous and friendly to locals and other visitors.
  • Taking care to dress appropriately for religious or cultural events, if attending.

Best Time to Visit South San Francisco

The best time to visit South San Francisco is from September to November, when the tourist crowds have thinned out and the weather is mild and pleasant. The spring and summer months are also popular times to visit, but can be more crowded and expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of South San Francisco

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to South San Francisco:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do explore the many museums and cultural landmarks.
  • Do respect the city’s customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Don’t engage in any risky or dangerous behaviors.

Safety and Health

South San Francisco is a safe and healthy destination for travelers. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and healthy trip:

Safety in South San Francisco

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Be mindful of traffic and pedestrian safety.

Health in South San Francisco

  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
  • Bring any necessary medications or health supplies with you.
  • Be aware of any potential health risks, such as allergies or food sensitivities.

Getting to South San Francisco: Transportation Options and Logistics

South San Francisco is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. Here are some of the top options:

Airports Near South San Francisco

  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK)

Bus Stations Near South San Francisco

  • San Francisco Greyhound Station
  • Golden Gate Transit Bus Station

Other Options

  • BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) - This commuter train offers convenient access to many Bay Area destinations, including San Francisco and Oakland.
  • Uber and Lyft – These ride-share services offer convenient transportation options for those looking to explore the city.

How to Get Around in South San Francisco

South San Francisco is a compact city and can easily be navigated on foot or by bike. There are also several public transportation options available, including buses and the BART.

Where to Go Next from South San Francisco: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your travels after your stay in South San Francisco, there are many nearby destinations and excursions to consider. Some of the top options include:

  • San Francisco - Just a short drive or train ride away, San Francisco offers endless entertainment, cultural landmarks, and culinary experiences.

  • Wine Country - Take a day trip to the famous wine country in Napa Valley, where you can sample some of California’s finest wines and explore the beautiful vineyards.

  • Silicon Valley - Head south to explore the birthplace of many of the world’s leading tech companies, including Apple, Google, and Facebook.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, South San Francisco has something to offer. Plan your visit today and enjoy all that this vibrant and exciting city has to offer.