Attractions and Places To See around Millbrae - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Millbrae include a mix of natural landscapes, historical sites, and outdoor activities on the San Francisco Peninsula. The area features scenic lakes and extensive trail networks, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying views of the Bay. Millbrae also provides insights into local history and serves as a key transportation hub.
Best attractions and places to see around Millbrae
- The most popular attractions is Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, a lake that is part of the 15-mile Crystal Springs Regional Trail. This trail is known for its mostly paved paths and scenic views along three lakes and through woodlands.
- Another must-see spot is San Andreas Lake, a lake situated directly on the San Andreas Fault. Visitors can enjoy its peaceful beauty from the San Andreas Trail or the Sawyer Camp Trail, which runs along its eastern edge.
- Visitors also love Devil's Slide bikeway (old Hwy 1), a cycle_way along the former Highway 1. This route offers views of the Pacific Ocean cliffs between Montara and Pacifica.
- Millbrae is known for its natural features, cultural sites, and historical landmarks. The area offers a variety of parks, museums, and trails to explore.
- The attractions around Millbrae are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 6 photos shared.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir
Highlight β’ Lake
Speed limit: 15 mph, difficult for high-end road bikes to stay below, so bring a bell: some hikers stand and talk in the center of the trail ;-)
San Andreas segment: From Skyline Boulevard south of San Bruno Avenue the trail drops to the head of San Andreas Lake, with pretty views across to the west of the wilderness slope of Montara Mountain. It rides along the lake 2 miles to an access point near Larkspur and 0.6 miles to another (at Hillcrest) where it connects to the Sawyer Camp segment.
Sawyer Camp segment: This is a gorgeous, easy bike ride, where you drop 400 feet over the span of 6 miles to Crystal Springs Dam. The route descends into riparian woodlands for 2.5 miles to Jepson Laurel picnic grounds, then runs along Crystal Springs Reservoir for 5.2 miles. You can continue another 1.7 miles to CaΓ±ada Road for Bicycle Sunday (no cars).
CaΓ±ada Road/Crystal Springs segment: South along Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir for 2.1 miles to the Pulgas Water Temple. It continues another 2.1 miles past Filoli Botanical Center and Phleger Estate to Edgewood Road
sfgate.com/outdoors/sundaydrive/article/Crystal-Springs-Trail-links-lakes-woodlands-4723374.php
parks.smcgov.org/crystal-springs-regional-trail
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San Andreas Lake
Highlight β’ Lake
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Devil's Slide bikeway (old Hwy 1)
Highlight (Segment) β’ Cycleway
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San Bruno Mountain State & County Park
Highlight β’ Natural Monument
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Pacifica Pier
Highlight β’ Bridge
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Tips from the Community
San Andreas Lake is a hidden gem tucked into the hills of San Mateo County, just south of San Francisco. Originally a natural sag pond formed by the San Andreas Fault, it was transformed into a reservoir in the late 1800s and now serves as a vital water source for the region. The lake is off-limits for swimming or boating, but you can enjoy its peaceful beauty from the San Andreas Trail or the popular Sawyer Camp Trail, which runs along its eastern edge. It's a serene spot where you can walk or bike with sweeping views of the water and surrounding hills, all while standing right on one of the worldβs most famous fault lines. Despite its proximity to urban life, San Andreas Lake offers a quiet, scenic escape steeped in natural and historical significance.
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Devils slide itself is nice and just to the south is the beautiful Gray Whales Cove beach. There is plenty of parking at both places. Two notes for cyclist: 1. cycling along Hwy 1, coming from Pacifica, requires climbing on a relatively narrow but highly frequented road. It is not a long climb until the turnoff to Devils slide, but it might be stressful for cyclists who are not used to riding in heavy traffic. Hwy 1 south of Devils slide has enough space for everyone. 2. If you cycle on Hwy1, then check the wind forecast beforehand. Dominant wind direction is NW, which means cycling southbound maximizes tailwind and minimizes breathing in all the air pollution from stinky cars.
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The Crystal Springs Regional Trail is a top spot for cyclists, featuring mostly paved paths with minimal car traffic. The trail runs through scenic areas like Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, offering beautiful lake views. On Sundays, you can ride the car-free CaΓ±ada Road segment for a more relaxed experience. Be mindful of the 15 mph speed limit, especially around hikers. The Sawyer Camp segment provides a gentle descent and stunning views, perfect for an easy ride through woodlands and along the reservoir.
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This 2,400-acre park stands as an oasis of open space, right on the fringes of San Francisco. The highest point of the ridge is just over 1,300 feet (almost 400 meters) in elevation, and the views are great!
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Pacifica Pier, officially named the Rev. Herschell Harkins Memorial Pacifica Pier, is a popular fishing spot located in Pacifica, California. This L-shaped pier juts out for a quarter mile into the Pacific Ocean. The pier is primarily used for fishing and is known for its abundant salmon runs, attracting numerous anglers. It also is a prime location for viewing whales during their biannual migration.
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This 1,140-foot pier is a great place to get up close to the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the best places to watch for grey whales and humpbacks lunge feed as their tales slap the water. If you're lucky, you can catch one breaching for an unforgettable photo.
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San Bruno Mountain Park is adjacent to the southern boundary between San Francisco and northern San Mateo County, and borders the cities of Brisbane, South San Francisco, Colma and Daly City -- a unique open-space island in the midst of the peninsula's urbanization at the northern end of the Santa Cruz Mountain Range. The Mountain's ridge line runs in an east-west configuration, with considerable slopes and elevations ranging from 250 feet to 1,314 feet at the summit. The 2,416 acres of rugged landscape offer excellent hiking opportunities and outstanding views of San Francisco and the Central Bay Area. https://parks.smcgov.org/san-bruno-mountain-state-county-park The trailheads at the summit offer restrooms, picnic tables, drinking water fountains, and trail maps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and outdoor spaces can I explore near Millbrae?
Millbrae offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, part of the extensive Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which is excellent for walking and cycling. Another serene spot is San Andreas Lake, situated directly on the San Andreas Fault, offering scenic views from the San Andreas or Sawyer Camp Trails. Bayfront Park provides a 2.5-mile paved trail with views of the San Francisco Bay and opportunities for birdwatching. For more rugged landscapes and panoramic views, explore San Bruno Mountain State & County Park.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions in Millbrae?
Yes, Millbrae has several historical and cultural sites. The Millbrae Train Museum, located in the historical Millbrae Train Station, showcases California's railroad history. The Millbrae History Museum, operated by the Millbrae Historical Society, offers insights into the local area through artifacts and photos. You can also take a self-guided Millbrae History Walk to see historically significant landmarks, including the former site of the Sixteen Mile House and the Mills Mansion.
What kind of trails are available for hiking and cycling near Millbrae?
The area around Millbrae boasts a diverse network of trails. The Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which includes segments like the San Andreas and Sawyer Camp Trails, is mostly paved and ideal for both cycling and walking, winding along picturesque lakes. For cyclists, the Devil's Slide bikeway (old Hwy 1) offers stunning ocean views along the Pacific coast. You can find various options from easy to moderate, including the Oak Cove Trail and the San Francisco Bay Trail: Bayside Park Loop. For more detailed routes, explore the easy hikes around Millbrae, hiking around Millbrae, and cycling around Millbrae guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Millbrae?
Millbrae offers several family-friendly options. Bayfront Park features a playground and open space for outdoor activities, alongside its scenic paved trail. Many local parks like Rotary Park and Central Park provide tranquil settings for walks and picnics. The Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir and San Andreas Lake areas, with their accessible trails, are also great for family outings. Additionally, Pacifica Pier is a popular spot for fishing and whale watching, which can be exciting for all ages.
What are some good places for scenic views or viewpoints?
For breathtaking views, the Crystal Springs Regional Trail offers picturesque vistas along its three lakes and through woodlands. San Andreas Lake provides sweeping views of the water and surrounding hills, especially from the Sawyer Camp Trail. The Devil's Slide bikeway (old Hwy 1) is renowned for its dramatic Pacific Ocean cliff views. From the summit of San Bruno Mountain State & County Park, you can enjoy outstanding panoramic views of San Francisco and the Central Bay Area. Pacifica Pier also offers great coastal views and opportunities to spot marine wildlife.
Are there any accessible trails for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, several trails near Millbrae are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Bayfront Park features a 2.5-mile paved trail that is popular for easy walks. Much of the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, including segments along Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir and San Andreas Lake, is paved, making it accessible for a wider range of visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit Millbrae's attractions?
Millbrae's attractions can be enjoyed year-round, but the spring and fall often offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with mild temperatures and less chance of rain. Summer is also popular, though coastal areas like the Devil's Slide bikeway and Pacifica Pier can experience fog. For specific events, the annual Millbrae Art & Wine Festival takes place in September.
Where can I find information about Millbrae's railroad history?
You can delve into Millbrae's rich railroad history at the Millbrae Train Museum. It is housed in the historical Millbrae Train Station and features vintage trains, railroad artifacts, and even a restored 1929 Ford Model Railway Express Agency delivery vehicle.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting in Millbrae's parks?
Yes, several parks and natural areas offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the Sawyer Camp Trail near San Andreas Lake, you might spot local wildlife like deer and rabbits. Bayfront Park is known for birdwatching, especially along the San Francisco Bay. The rugged landscape of San Bruno Mountain State & County Park also supports diverse flora and fauna.
What is the Millbrae Intermodal Center and how does it relate to visiting attractions?
The Millbrae Intermodal Center is the largest intermodal center west of the Mississippi River, connecting BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), Caltrain, and SamTrans. While not an attraction itself, it makes Millbrae a key transportation hub, providing convenient public transport access to many local attractions and connecting visitors to the broader San Francisco Bay Area.
Can I combine a visit to Millbrae's attractions with a trip to the coast?
Absolutely. Millbrae's strategic location provides easy access to coastal attractions. You can easily reach the Devil's Slide bikeway (old Hwy 1) for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean cliffs. Further south, Pacifica Pier is a popular spot for fishing and enjoying the ocean breeze, and it's known for whale watching during migration seasons.
What are some unique local events or festivals in Millbrae?
Millbrae hosts the annual Millbrae Art & Wine Festival, typically held in September. This popular event celebrates local arts and culture, featuring live music, various artists showcasing their work, and a wide array of food vendors, offering a vibrant community experience.
Most popular attractions around Millbrae
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