The Peninsula Travel Guide for Families: Where to Stay & Play

Nature and Outdoor Fun for All Ages 

The Peninsula is rich in natural beauty with over 42% of open space preserve, parks and beaches offering plenty of ways to get kids off screens and into the fresh air. 

• Beaches: From the wide sands of Half Moon Bay to the hidden coves of Pacifica, families can enjoy beach picnics, sandcastle building, tide-pooling, and even surfing lessons for adventurous kids. 

• Hiking Trails & Parks: Trails at places like Edgewood Park and Sweeney Ridge provide manageable hikes for young explorers, with stunning views and wildflowers during the spring and summer. 

• Filoli Historic House & Garden: A must-visit for families, Filoli in Woodside is more than just a grand estate—kids will love wandering the sprawling gardens, the historic mansion, and seasonal events designed for everyone. 

• Topgolf Burlingame: Topgolf's new sports entertainment complex in Burlingame overlooks beautiful San Francisco Bay. It features an inclusive, high-tech golf game that everyone can enjoy, paired with an outstanding, all-weather hitting bays, and music! 

• More Family Friendly Activities and Museums. 

Downtowns with Personality (and Treats) 

The Peninsula is home to charming, walkable downtowns that make for easygoing afternoons filled with shopping, snacking, and exploring. In Burlingame, you can browse boutique shops and enjoy a meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants. San Carlos, known as the “City of Good Living,” offers a small-town vibe with toy stores, ice cream shops, and wide sidewalks perfect for families. In Redwood City, you’ll find a lively, modern downtown with trendy new restaurants, cozy plant shops, and fun community events like Movies on the Square, making it a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike. On the Coastside, you can visit the most famous Taco Bell Cantina with a beachfront view located in Pacifica, or shop along downtown Half Moon Bay and have lunch. 

Family-Friendly Eats 

From farm-to-table restaurants to old-school diners, the Peninsula offers options even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Our diverse selection of restaurants have so much to choose from. 

Bonus: For a little extra fun, don’t miss our Peninsula boba trail - a sweet adventure for young (and young-at-heart) foodies. 

Where to Stay 

The Peninsula offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations—whether you're looking for cozy, coastal charm or full-service hotels with modern amenities. Many properties are just minutes from major attractions, making it easy to plan your stay around your family’s interests and pace.