7-Day Family Adventure in Eco-Friendly San Carlos, California

Day 1: Exploring San Carlos

San Carlos, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tacos El Grullense

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Tacos El Grullense, where the breakfast burritos are a local favorite.
Located just a short drive from your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve

Explore the beautiful trails at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, where your family will enjoy scenic views and wildlife spotting.
A 30-minute drive from Tacos El Grullense.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Refuge

Savor some delicious gourmet sandwiches and craft beers at The Refuge; their pastrami sandwich is highly recommended!
Drive back to San Carlos takes about 30 minutes.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit San Carlos History Museum

Engage the kids with fascinating exhibits at the San Carlos History Museum, highlighting the town's rich past.
Only a 10-minute drive away.
USD5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at San Carlos Park

Finish the day with a relaxing evening at San Carlos Park, allowing kids to play while you watch the sunset over the area.
Just 5 minutes away from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Paula's Pizza

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Paula's Pizza, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious pizzas that everyone will love.
Close to the park, only 10 minutes by car.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Half Moon Bay Adventures

Half Moon Bay, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at COASTSIDE COFFEE BAR

Grab a quick breakfast at COASTSIDE COFFEE BAR, where you can find locally-sourced pastries and great coffee.
A 25-minute drive to Half Moon Bay.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Half Moon Bay State Beach

Spend a joyful morning at Half Moon Bay State Beach, where you can build sandcastles and enjoy beach games.
Walking distance from breakfast spot.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sam’s Chowder House

Indulge in fresh seafood at Sam’s Chowder House, known for its clam chowder served in a bread bowl.
A short walk from the beach.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve

Take the kids on an educational hike at this preserve, where they can learn about local flora and observe wildlife.
A quick 15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Pumpkin Festival Plaza

Enjoy some local festivities at the Pumpkin Festival Plaza if in season, or simply stroll around the vibrant shops.
Drive back towards town takes about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Barn

Finish your day with dinner at The Barn featuring farm-to-table meals perfect for the whole family.
Located in Half Moon Bay, a 10-minute drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Redwood City

Redwood City, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Red Rock Coffee

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with various coffee options and pastries at Red Rock Coffee, favored by locals.
A 20-minute drive from Half Moon Bay.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Edgewood Park

Explore the picturesque trails of Edgewood Park, ideal for families with its easy paths and stunning views.
A 15-minute drive after breakfast.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Molly Stone's Markets

Pick up a fresh deli-style lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the park's scenic spots.
Just 10 minutes drive.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the San Mateo County History Museum

Beautifully designed, this museum is engaging for families with interactive exhibits for kids and adults alike.
A quick 10-minute drive.
USD8, 2 hours

4:30PM

Bayfront Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful waterfront at Bayfront Park, perfect for some family fun outdoors.
Only 15-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Red Robin

Savor a delicious dinner at Red Robin, known for their gourmet burgers and kid-friendly menu options.
A nearby 5-minute drive.
USD28, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Belmont Delights

Belmont, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Borrone

Relax at Cafe Borrone, where you can enjoy a delightful breakfast in a friendly atmosphere.
A 15-minute drive from Redwood City.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nature Walk at Waterdog Lake Park

Discover the beauty of Waterdog Lake Park with family-friendly trails and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
A 10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Los Palos

Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at Los Palos, featuring an array of flavorful dishes that all family members will appreciate.
A 15-minute drive from your hike.
USD18, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Ralston Hall

Visit Ralston Hall, an enchanting historical building situated on a lovely estate, offering tours to engage the family.
Only a short 5-minute drive.
USD5, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Play at Belmont Sports Complex

Head over to the Belmont Sports Complex, where your kids can engage in various fun sports activities or splash around in the kids' playground.
Just around the corner, a 5-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Wind down the day with a family-friendly fondue dining experience at The Melting Pot, where everyone can partake in the meal.
Close to the sports complex, merely a 5-minute drive.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 5: Pacifica Discoveries

Pacifica, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakers

Enjoy an oceanside breakfast at Breakers, well-known for its breakfast specials and ocean views.
A 20-minute drive from Belmont to Pacifica.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Pacifica State Beach

Take on the trails and scenic views along Pacifica State Beach, perfect for family outings and ocean exploration.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nick’s Restaurant

Savor delicious dishes from seafood to classic breakfast items at Nick's Restaurant, an iconic stop in Pacifica.
Just a quick drive from the beach.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Pacifica Quarry

Explore the unique Pacifica Quarry and enjoy learning about its history, also featuring nature trails for hiking.
Only a 15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Beachtime at Rockaway Beach

Unwind with some fun in the sand at Rockaway Beach, a family-friendly spot perfect for beach games and relaxation.
A short 10-minute drive from the quarry.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Moonraker Restaurant

Conclude your day with a seafood feast at Moonraker, offering incredible views and delicious cuisine.
Just a 5-minute drive away.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Day Trip to San Francisco

Ocean Beach, San Francisco, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Beachside Coffee

Start your day with fresh coffee and delicious snacks at Beachside Coffee, right next to the beach.
A scenic 25-minute drive along the coastline to Ocean Beach.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beach Activities at Ocean Beach

Spend a fabulous morning playing at Ocean Beach, where you can enjoy the sandy shore and views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Right in front of the café.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cliff House

Experience dining with a view at the historic Cliff House, serving an array of Californian cuisine.
Located a quick walk from the beach.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the California Academy of Sciences

Explore the wonders of nature at the California Academy of Sciences, featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and more for the whole family.
A 15-minute drive from lunch.
USD30, 3 hours

5:30PM

Golden Gate Park Stroll

Enjoy some leisure time walking around Golden Gate Park, with plenty of spots for kids to play and explore.
Just minutes away from the Academy.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Savor a unique dining experience at The Stinking Rose, known for its garlic-infused dishes that are both flavorful and fun.
Head towards North Beach, a 20-minute drive.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 7: Return and Relax

San Carlos, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zorro's Cafe

Enjoy a final breakfast at Zorro's Cafe, a cozy spot serving fresh breakfast with a friendly vibe.
A 25-minute drive back to San Carlos.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gentle Walk at the San Carlos Creek Trail

Take a peaceful morning walk along the San Carlos Creek Trail, surrounded by nature and a perfect way to unwind.
Only 10 minutes from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit the Station 41 Fire Station

Kids will love visiting the local fire station, where they can learn about fire safety and see the fire trucks up close.
A 10-minute drive to the fire station.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Office BBQ

Indulge in some delicious barbecue at The Office BBQ, where the meats are fall-off-the-bone tender.
A quick drive back to the heart of San Carlos.
USD18, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at your hotel or local park

Spend the afternoon relaxing at your accommodation or visit a nearby park to reflect on the family adventure you’ve shared this week.
Close by whatever you decide to do.
Free, Variable

5:00PM

Last Dinner at Bianchini's Market

Finish your adventure with a delightful dinner at Bianchini's Market, featuring delicious takeout options and a great family atmosphere.
Located conveniently in San Carlos.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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