The city, which is home to 100,000 people, is one of the most vibrant communities in the Bay Area, making it one of the best destinations for a day trip for relaxation and leisure. This southern California city, 20-miles south of San Francisco, has a lively and very suitable Mediterranean climate. However, a small city on the outskirts of San Francisco welcomes you to San Mateo, a place where you can find dozens of attractions and activities that you won't expect to be there. Most of us have that impression about the suburbs as a boring place for activities.