San Carlos, California, US

San Carlos, California, offers travelers charming suburban streets, vibrant parks, and a thriving local community. It's an ideal spot for those seeking quaint local shops, quality dining, and access to scenic outdoor activities.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Los Angeles

Local Time

03:41 AM

Population

29,600

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

57-81°F (14-27°C) - Consistently warm and dry.

Best Time

Apr-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Excellent

Airport Info

SFO

San Francisco International Airport

Distance

Approximately 20 minutes (10 miles) by car via US-101 N. Public transit takes about 45 minutes using Caltrain and BART.

Description

Major international airport with three terminals, offering amenities like free Wi-Fi, dining, shopping and lounges. Connected via BART and highway 101.

San Carlos is a picturesque city located on the San Francisco Peninsula, offering a unique blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. Known as the City of Good Living, it presents a welcoming atmosphere with family-friendly parks, such as Burton Park, and a bustling downtown with indie shops and dining. For aviation enthusiasts, the Hiller Aviation Museum showcases the spirit of innovation. Within a short drive, visitors can explore pristine hiking trails in nearby hills. Enjoy the Mediterranean-like climate, vibrant local events, and easy access to both San Francisco and Silicon Valley, making it an ideal base for travelers exploring Northern California's attractions.

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San Carlos Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of California's strict laws regarding smoking in public places and the legal drinking age of 21.

Crime Rates

San Carlos is considered a safe city with relatively low crime rates compared to other cities in California. Property crimes are more common than violent crimes, but both are below the national average.

Health Risks

Health risks in San Carlos are minimal. The city has access to quality healthcare facilities, including nearby hospitals and clinics.

Natural Disasters

San Carlos is located in an area that can be affected by earthquakes. It is important to be aware of earthquake safety procedures.

Law Enforcement

San Carlos has an effective law enforcement presence with regular patrols and a responsive police department. The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office provides police services to the city.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in San Carlos is generally safe. The Caltrain service and local buses are reliable and well-maintained.

Solo Travelers

San Carlos is generally safe for solo travelers, but standard precautions should be taken.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in San Carlos.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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San Carlos Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Rainy Days


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Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit San Carlos

Summary: The best time to visit San Carlos is from May to October when the weather is most pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Enjoy local events like the Farmers' Market and concerts in the park.

❄️

January

Cool and damp, around 8°C-15°C (46°F-59°F). Great for indoor activities and museums.

💘

February

Mild weather, 9°C-16°C (48°F-61°F). Experience the Wildflower Walks nearby.

🌱

March

Mild spring temperatures, 10°C-18°C (50°F-64°F), ideal for outdoor exploration.

🌸

April

Best

Spring blooms with temperatures from 11°C-20°C (52°F-68°F). Perfect for hiking.

🌷

May

Best

Pleasant weather, 13°C-22°C (55°F-72°F), heralds the start of outdoor events.

☀️

June

Best

Warmer weather, 14°C-24°C (57°F-75°F). Enjoy local festivals and outdoor concerts.

🏖️

July

Best

Sunny and warm, 15°C-25°C (59°F-77°F), perfect for all outdoor activities.

🌞

August

Best

Warm and dry, 15°C-25°C (59°F-77°F), enjoy the bustling Farmers' Market.

🍂

September

Best

Mild and sunny, 14°C-24°C (57°F-75°F), ideal for outdoor exploration and local events.

🍁

October

Best

Cooler fall weather, 13°C-22°C (55°F-72°F), perfect for exploring seasonal colors.

November

Cool, around 10°C-18°C (50°F-64°F). Great for exploring local gastronomy.

🎄

December

Chilly and festive with temperatures 8°C-15°C (46°F-59°F). Enjoy holiday celebrations.

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Seasonal Events in San Carlos

October

San Carlos Art and Wine Faire

An annual event featuring local artists, live music, and wine tastings.

San Carlos Chamber of Commerce
Summer Months

Music in the Park

Enjoy free concerts at Burton Park with a variety of musical genres.

City of San Carlos
December

Night of Holiday Lights

A festive celebration to kick off the holiday season with lights and entertainment.

San Carlos Recreation
May

Hometown Days

A community celebration with a parade, carnival rides, and local performances.

San Carlos Hometown Days
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Popular Foods in San Carlos

Cioppino

A hearty seafood stew originating from San Francisco, popular throughout the Bay Area.

Sourdough Bread

The famous San Francisco sourdough is a must-try, with its unique tangy flavor.

Mission-style Burrito

A large, foil-wrapped burrito native to the area, filled with rice, beans, salsa, and meat.

Dungeness Crab

A local seafood delicacy, especially enjoyed during the crab season from November to June.

Artisan Cheese

Locally-produced, high-quality cheese varieties are popular in the Bay Area cuisine.

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Closest Airports to San Carlos

Regional Airport

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San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Regional airport with two terminals. Offers free Wi-Fi, dining, shopping, and easy access via VTA. Efficient check-in and security.

Approximately 40 minutes (27 miles) by car via US-101 S. Public transit takes about 1.5 hours using Caltrain and VTA.

Use VTA from downtown San Jose. Check flight schedules online to plan ahead. Arrive early during peak travel times.

SJC Website

International Airport

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San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Major international airport with three terminals, offering amenities like free Wi-Fi, dining, shopping and lounges. Connected via BART and highway 101.

Approximately 20 minutes (10 miles) by car via US-101 N. Public transit takes about 45 minutes using Caltrain and BART.

Use BART for easy city access. Check terminal maps online for navigation. Take advantage of lounge facilities for relaxation while layovers.

SFO Website

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Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

San Carlos, California, offers a family-friendly atmosphere with numerous parks, interactive museums like the Hiller Aviation Museum, and proximity to attractions such as the San Francisco Zoo and Bay Area Discovery Museum. Its warm and welcoming community, along with family-oriented accommodations, makes it perfect for a family vacation.

Couples Retreat Icon

Couples Retreat

With its charming small-town feel, San Carlos provides a tranquil retreat for couples. Enjoy quiet strolls through the scenic parks, intimate dining experiences at cozy local restaurants, and sunset views over the San Francisco Bay. Proximity to romantic spots in San Francisco and Napa Valley enhances the allure for a couples getaway.

Nature and Outdoor Adventure

San Carlos is surrounded by a wealth of natural beauty, with nearby hiking and biking trails such as those in the Edgewood Park and Nature Preserve. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can explore breathtaking landscapes, partake in birdwatching, or enjoy kayaking in the nearby waterways.

Tech and Innovation Tour

Located in Silicon Valley, San Carlos is at the heart of technological innovation. Visitors interested in technology and innovation can tour tech company campuses, attend conferences, or explore tech museums. It's a fantastic destination for tech enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the world of innovation.

Culinary Exploration

San Carlos offers a delightful culinary scene with a variety of local eateries, breweries, and wineries that reflect the rich diversity of the Bay Area. From farmers markets to fine dining, the city allows food lovers to indulge in a cultural and gastronomic journey, sampling both local and international cuisines.

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Custom Language

The City by the Bay

San Francisco

Referring to San Francisco, it's widely recognized in the Bay Area.

NorCal

Northern California

Commonly used to describe the region encompassing San Carlos and surrounding areas.

The Peninsula

San Francisco Peninsula

Locals use this term to describe where San Carlos is located.

It's hella!

Very

A colloquial term often used by locals to describe something as being very good.

Golden State

California

Widely used reference for the state, highlighting its opportunities and sunny disposition.

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Popular Sports & Teams in San Carlos

San Carlos Little League

San Carlos Little League offers baseball programs for children in the community, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship.

San Carlos Little League

San Carlos Youth Soccer

San Carlos Youth Soccer provides opportunities for children to play soccer, focusing on skill development and competitive play.

San Carlos AYSO

Bay Badminton Center

Located in nearby Burlingame, the Bay Badminton Center offers a place for badminton enthusiasts to play and compete.

Bay Badminton Center

Peninsula YMCA Basketball

The Peninsula Family YMCA offers basketball leagues and clinics for youth and adults, fostering competitive and recreational play.

Peninsula Family YMCA

San Carlos Tennis Club

Offering tennis programs and tournaments for all ages, the San Carlos Tennis Club encourages active participation in the sport.

San Carlos Tennis Club

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Unique customs/traditions

Farmers' Market Culture

A strong tradition of supporting local farmers and artisans, reflecting community values.

Parade Celebrations

Community parades are central to celebrations, fostering local pride and togetherness.

Silicon Valley Innovation

Embracing and celebrating innovation through local workshops and tech gatherings.

Cultural Diversity

A tradition of celebrating diverse cultures through food, music, and art events.

Outdoor Recreation

An ingrained custom of engaging in outdoor activities, highlighting the region's natural beauty.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Hometown Movies

Family Movie Night

Entertainment (2-3 hours)

Catch a new family-friendly film in a comfortable theater environment that caters to all ages.

Laureola Park

Outdoor Picnic

Outdoor (Half-day)

A picnic in this beautiful park allows families to relax together and enjoy outdoor fun with playgrounds and picnic tables.

Westdale Farm

Visit a Local Farm

Outdoor / Educational (3-4 hours)

This picturesque farm offers family-friendly activities like picking fruits and visiting farm animals, providing a wholesome day out.

San Carlos Bowling Alley

Bowling Together

Indoor / Activity (2-3 hours)

A fun bowling experience that allows families to bond and compete while enjoying snacks and drinks.

Museum (1-2 hours)

Explore local history through engaging exhibits that are informative for both kids and parents.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

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