Exploring San Mateo County with Ease: Accessibility Resources
Your Complete Guide to Accessible Adventures in San Mateo County
Discover barrier-free experiences from coastal trails to world-class dining on the San Francisco Peninsula
San Mateo County isn't just accessible—it's designed to welcome every visitor with open arms. Nestled between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, this stunning Peninsula destination offers everything from oceanfront dining to redwood forest trails, all with thoughtful accessibility features that let you focus on what matters most: creating unforgettable memories.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway to Half Moon Bay, a business trip to the South Bay, or a family adventure exploring our coastal treasures, this guide will help you navigate San Mateo County with confidence and ease.
Getting Here and Getting Around
Flying In? SFO Sets the Standard
San Francisco International Airport consistently ranks among the world's most accessible airports, making your arrival seamless:
- Effortless terminal connections with accessible shuttles to rental cars and ground transportation
- Dedicated assistance available curbside for wheelchair and luggage support
- Comprehensive accessibility features including TTY phones, visual paging systems, and accessible restrooms in every terminal
- Clear wayfinding with ADA-compliant signage throughout
Pro tip: Visit flysfo.com/accessibility before your trip to request specific services and plan your route through the airport.
Public Transit That Works for Everyone
Caltrain makes Peninsula exploration easy with level boarding at most stations, dedicated wheelchair seating areas, and clear audio-visual announcements for every stop.
SamTrans buses feature ramps or lifts on every vehicle, priority seating, and securement areas. New to public transit? Their free travel training program helps riders with disabilities navigate the system confidently.
Need door-to-door service? Redi-Wheels and RediCoast provide personalized paratransit options for qualified individuals—perfect for reaching specific attractions or restaurants.
Rideshare services that offer accessible transportation options - Uber WAV + Lyft WAV
Where to Rest: Accessible Accommodations
Airport Area Excellence
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport (Burlingame) leads with spacious roll-in showers, visual alert systems, and barrier-free pathways throughout the property.
Embassy Suites by Hilton SFO Waterfront offers generous suites with accessible parking and seamless step-free navigation to all public areas.
Modern Comfort
Aloft San Francisco Airport (Millbrae) combines contemporary design with practical accessibility features, including grab bars and accessible technology in every ADA room.
The Westin San Francisco Airport provides premium accommodations with roll-in showers, service animal amenities, and accessible elevator access throughout.
Peninsula Favorites
Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo ensures accessible routes connect every area of the hotel, with compliant restrooms and thoughtfully designed ADA guestrooms.
Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo provides wheelchair-accessible accommodations with convenient airport proximity and reliable accessibility features throughout the property.
Coastal Retreats
Oceano Hotel & Spa (Half Moon Bay) combines waterfront luxury with step-free access, accessible dining, and breathtaking ocean views.
Planning ahead? Contact hotels directly to discuss specific room features and confirm availability, as accessibility amenities can vary within properties.
Culinary Adventures Without Barriers
San Mateo County's dining scene celebrates both flavor and accessibility. Here are our top picks where great food meets thoughtful design:
San Mateo Favorites
- Backhaus: European bakery charm with wide aisles, step-free entry, and accessible facilities
- Pausa Bar & Cookery: Modern Italian cuisine with street-level access and generous table spacing
- Hot Wok Bistro: Popular Chinese restaurant with accessible parking and barrier-free dining areas
Redwood City Gems
- Vesta: Artisan pizzas with ground-level access and dedicated wheelchair seating
- Alhambra Irish House: Cozy pub atmosphere with wide entryways and accessible table arrangements
- Crouching Tiger: Creative Asian fusion with barrier-free design throughout
Burlingame Classics
- Mingalaba: Authentic Burmese flavors with front ramp access and accessible restrooms
- Il Fornaio: Upscale Italian dining featuring elevator parking access and attentive, knowledgeable service
Half Moon Bay Coastal Dining
- Sam's Chowder House: Oceanfront dining with wide pathways, accessible facilities, and those Instagram-worthy coastal views
- Pasta Moon: Fresh, house-made pasta in a thoughtfully designed space that welcomes mobility devices
- The Barn: Farm-to-table cuisine with accessible outdoor seating and convenient parking
Dining tip: Many restaurants offer outdoor seating options and will gladly accommodate specific needs when you call ahead.
Accessible Adventures and Attractions
Natural Wonders Made Accessible
Filoli Historic House & Garden provides complimentary wheelchairs, smooth paved pathways through 16 acres of formal gardens, and accessible facilities—making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon exploring one of California's most beautiful estates.
Devil's Slide Trail offers some of the Peninsula's most spectacular coastal views via a smooth, wide paved path that's ideal for wheelchairs, with convenient parking and restroom facilities at both ends.
Coyote Point Recreation Area features accessible trails, parking, and facilities, plus stunning bay views that make it perfect for picnics, nature photography, and peaceful relaxation.
Cultural Experiences
San Mateo County History Museum welcomes visitors with ADA-compliant entrances and elevators, offering engaging exhibits about the Peninsula's rich past.
Pillar Point Harbor provides accessible fishing piers, restroom facilities, and boat tour options that accommodate wheelchairs—bringing you closer to marine wildlife and coastal beauty.
Insider Tips for Seamless Travel
Downtown Navigation
Peninsula cities like Burlingame, San Mateo, and Redwood City feature well-maintained sidewalks with accessible curb cuts and designated ADA parking throughout their charming downtown districts.
Technology That Helps
Download AccessNow, Wheelmap, or use Google Maps Accessibility features for real-time accessibility information about restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Local Support
Questions about specific accessibility needs? Contact our visitor center at info@thesfp.com or visit www.thesfp.com for personalized assistance.
Ready to Explore?
San Mateo County proves that accessibility and adventure go hand in hand. From morning coffee overlooking the Pacific to evening dining in charming downtown districts, every experience here is designed with your comfort and enjoyment in mind.
Accessibility isn't an add-on here—it's woven into the fabric of Peninsula hospitality. We believe every visitor deserves to experience our coastal beauty, innovative cuisine, and warm community spirit, regardless of physical ability.
Start planning your accessible Peninsula adventure at www.thesfp.com/accessibility
We can't wait to welcome you to San Mateo County, where every path leads to possibility.