Got a long layover at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and looking to kill time and explore? Great news - you’re already on The San Francisco Peninsula, one of the most scenic, diverse, and relaxed parts of the Bay Area. With 4–7 hours to spare, you have just enough time to take in the region’s coastal charm, culinary scene, and laid-back energy before heading back for your next flight.
Here are some easy, enriching things to do near SFO:
🌿 Explore Coyote Point Recreation Area (10–15 min from SFO)
If you want fresh air and beautiful Bay views, head to Coyote Point Recreation Area in San Mateo. This bayside park offers walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a small beach — all with sweeping vistas of the Bay and planes taking off in the distance. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs and reconnect with nature.
If you're traveling with kids (or just curious), stop by CuriOdyssey, a hands-on science and wildlife center inside the park featuring native animals and interactive exhibits.
🛍️ Shop + Stroll in Downtown Burlingame (10–12 min from SFO)
Just a short drive or rideshare away, Burlingame Avenue is lined with boutique shops, cozy cafés, bakeries, and wine bars. Whether you're craving an upscale lunch, want to browse independent retailers, or just sip a cappuccino and people-watch, downtown Burlingame is effortlessly chic and stress-free.
Grab a bite at local favorites like Mingalaba (Burmese cuisine), Crepevine, or Backhaus (artisan bakery). There’s plenty of sidewalk seating and shady trees for a relaxing break. Other restaurant options.
Play a Few Rounds at Topgolf Burlingame (10 min from SFO)
Just 10 minutes from SFO, Topgolf Burlingame is a great way to shake off jet lag. Whether you're a serious golfer or just in it for the fun and food, it’s an easy and entertaining stop between flights.
Discover Downtown San Mateo (15–18 min from SFO)
Downtown San Mateo is a vibrant cultural hub with an incredible dining scene — including some of the best Asian cuisine in the Bay Area. You’ll find ramen, Korean BBQ, sushi, and Filipino silog spots all within a few blocks.
If you want to stretch your legs, stroll around San Mateo Central Park, a beautiful green space with a Japanese tea garden, rose garden, and shaded walking paths.
🖼️ Visit Filoli in Woodside (25 min from SFO)
Tucked into the tranquil hills of Woodside, Filoli is one of the Peninsula’s most stunning and serene attractions — and it's just a short drive from SFO. This 654-acre estate blends history, horticulture, and natural beauty, featuring a beautifully preserved 1917 Georgian Revival mansion and 16 acres of formal English gardens that bloom year-round. Wander through rose-covered walkways, explore the art-filled interiors, or stroll the estate’s nature trails for a peaceful retreat. If your layover allows for a few hours, Filoli offers a rejuvenating detour into California elegance and history.
🥾 Hike the Sawyer Camp Trail (20 min from SFO)
Want something more active? The Sawyer Camp Trail offers a flat, paved path that winds alongside the Crystal Springs Reservoir. With views of forested hills, water, and wildlife, it’s a peaceful escape less than 30 minutes round trip from the airport. You can walk, jog, or bike part of the trail depending on how much time you have.
Additional Quick Stops within 10 min of SFO:
- Millbrae: Unwind after a flight with a relaxing massage at Hong Kong Hollywood Spa — a local favorite for recharging on the go.
- South San Francisco: Check out The Hangar, a vibrant destination featuring a market hall with four diverse restaurant concepts, an artisanal coffee bar, a full-service restaurant and lounge, modern event spaces, and high-tech conference facilities. Looking for activity? Book a court at Park Padel for a quick match.
- San Bruno: Pop over to Tanforan mall — grab a snack, browse the shops, or catch a movie if time allows.
Hit the Coast or Take a Scenic Spin on Highway 1
If you’ve got 4+ hours to spare, rent a car and head west—just a short drive from SFO, the Northern California coast offers stunning views, quirky roadside stops, and seriously good eats. Here are three quick coastal escapes to consider:
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Pacifica (20 minutes from SFO)
Stretch your legs and breathe in the ocean air at Pacifica State Beach, home to one of the most iconic Taco Bells in the world—yes, really. This beachfront Taco Bell Cantina serves up Baja Blasts with a view, just steps from the sand. Need a sweet treat for the road? Swing by Rosalind Bakery for warm sourdough and pastries made daily. -
Half Moon Bay (30 minutes from SFO)
Cruise down Highway 1 to Pillar Point Harbor, where fishing boats dock and fresh seafood is never far away. Grab some fish tacos or clam chowder, then head to downtown Half Moon Bay for charming boutiques, local art galleries, and cozy coffee shops nestled among historic buildings. -
Pescadero (40–50 minutes from SFO)
If time allows, keep going south to the tiny town of Pescadero, a hidden gem. Don’t miss the artichoke garlic bread at Arcangeli Grocery Co., then drop by Harley Farms to meet the goats and sample award-winning goat cheese.
Check out more Highway 1 Stops.
✅ Layover Tips:
- Transportation: Rideshare apps and Caltrain are the fastest and most reliable option from SFO.
- Timing: Be sure to allow time to get back through security — aim to return to the airport at least 2 hours before your next flight.
- Luggage: Check with your airline about short-term luggage storage if needed.