Welcome to San Carlos
Luxury homes and ample tranquility characterize this upscale San Mateo enclave
San Carlos has rightfully earned the distinction as one of the most sought-after suburbs on the San Francisco Peninsula. Located near the community of Belmont, the affluent city is well-regarded for its peaceful residential streets and lively downtown business district – an area flourishing with sidewalk eateries, darling boutiques, and lovely architecture. All of this has led to San Carlos’ moniker as the “City of Good Living.” There’s no question that it offers its residents an unbeatable, delightful lifestyle.
San Carlos’ sublime weather is a large part of its appeal. Residents here relish more than 264 days of sunshine annually, which lures them outside and into one of the city’s impeccably-kept community parks. Exceptional walkability, proximity to high-ranking schools, and an upbeat ethos round out its appeal and explains why so many are keen on setting down roots in this gorgeous area.
What to Love
- Perfectly located between San Jose and San Francisco
- Friendly vibes and community-focused
- Home to several holiday-themed events throughout the year
- A splendid mix of real estate options
Local Lifestyle
San Carlos’s proximity to Silicon Valley renders it an ideal match for technology professionals and their families. Its vibrant arts scene makes it an excellent match for aspiring and established painters, musicians, writers, animators, and more. The residents of San Carlos come together frequently for the many festivals the city hosts, but you’re just as likely to see your neighbors downtown or at one of its parks.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
San Carlos boasts an excellent blend of relaxed eateries and high-end venues, ensuring you’ll find precisely what you’d like, whether it’s a quick family meal before a school sporting event or a date night you and your partner would like to remember for decades.
Town is one of the hippest (and most delicious) spots in San Carlos. Settle in with your friends and family on their enchanting patio and dive into plates like crispy Brussel sprouts with parsley and lemon and ahi poke bowls with avocado and edamame.
The Iron Gate in nearby Belmont is just as irresistible. Here, you’ll find a magnificent array of Italian dishes, from melon wrapped with prosciutto to veal scallopini. Make sure you stay for dessert; their souffle Grand Marnier is phenomenal.
San Carlos has a relatively quiet nightlife, which is precisely how its residents like it. And yet, when the desire to sip on handcrafted cocktails, dance, or listen to live music arrives, residents are only a short distance away from San Francisco’s array of options, including the divine Redwood Room in The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel.
Things to Do
Residents of San Carlos enjoy convenient access to the entirety of San Francisco Bay – a place globally renowned for its incredibly fun activities. Whether you want to spend a weekend wine tasting in Napa Valley or want to catch a show at nearby Mountain View’s Shoreline Amphitheatre, you can savor almost everything you desire (and almost whenever you please) simply by living on the Peninsula.
History buffs will be pleased with the discoveries waiting to be made at the acclaimed San Carlos Museum of History, which offers an inside glimpse at the village's beginnings. The Hiller Aviation Museum is another top-notch San Carlos attraction; come here to learn about the origins of flight and where it’s headed. And when you want to picnic in the city’s sunshine or give your children a fun time outside, Burton Park never disappoints with its play structures and open spaces.
Schools