Living in Redwood Shores: Everything You Need To Know
Living in Redwood Shores: A Hidden Gem on the San Francisco Peninsula
San Francisco is full of charming spots, but San Mateo County’s newest Waterfront Community of Redwood Shores gives a lot to talk about!
Nestled between San Francisco and San Jose, Redwood Shores is a vibrant waterfront community that perfectly blends natural beauty, modern amenities, and a thriving business environment. This master-planned community in San Mateo County has evolved from its humble beginnings as marshland to become one of the most desirable places to live on the Peninsula. Let's dive into what makes Redwood Shores such a special place to call home.
From Marshland to Modern Community
Redwood Shores has a fascinating history that dates back to the 1960s. Originally marshland, this area was transformed into a planned community with a vision to create a modern waterfront oasis. Over the decades, it has grown into a thriving residential and business hub, attracting families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of Redwood Shores's most captivating aspects is its stunning natural surroundings. The community is built around a series of lagoons and waterways, offering residents breathtaking views and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, makes it ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
The Bay Trail
A crown jewel of Redwood Shores is the Bay Trail, which stretches for over five miles along the water and wetlands. This flat, scenic trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, providing residents with a beautiful escape into nature right at their doorstep.
Bair Island Ecological Reserve
While not directly accessible from Redwood Shores, the nearby Bair Island Ecological Reserve is a testament to the area's commitment to preserving natural habitats. This 3,000-acre reserve, composed of Inner, Middle, and Outer islands, has been restored to tidal wetlands, offering a glimpse into the Bay Area's original ecosystem.
Events, Parks, and Activities in Redwood Shores
Redwood Shores is known for its family-friendly environment and strong sense of community. The area offers a variety of residential options, from single-family homes to modern condominiums, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Residents of Redwood Shores enjoy a wide range of recreational activities and amenities:
Parks: The community boasts seven public parks, including Marlin Park, which hosts community events like summer concerts and movie nights.
Redwood Shores Library: This modern library, built in 2008, is a great resource for books and is home to a unique honey bee program and an Environmental Interpretive Center.
Bay Club: This expansive fitness facility offers a 15,000-square-foot fitness center, indoor basketball and tennis courts, and a fantastic pool area with a huge slide.
Water Activities: The 200-acre lagoon system provides ample sailing, windsurfing, and rowing opportunities. The Spinnaker Sailing School has been a local institution since 1980, offering sailing lessons for all ages.
Redwood Shores fosters a strong sense of community through various events throughout the year:
Summer Concert Series: Held on Sundays at Marlin Park.
Eggstravaganza: An annual spring event at Marlin Park.
Farmers Markets: Seasonal markets offering fresh, local produce.
A Wide Offer Of Dining and Shopping Options
While Redwood Shores doesn't have a traditional downtown area, there are several local dining options:
Mistral Restaurant and Bar: Offers waterfront dining with a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
The Grill House: A family-owned sports tavern perfect for casual dining.
Amici's Pizza: Known for some of the best thin-crust pizza in the area.
Waterside Grill and Lounge: Another waterfront option for American cuisine.
But if you are looking for more, you can easily access nearby downtown areas in Redwood City, San Carlos, or Belmont for more extensive shopping and dining options.
The Perfect Place For Waterfront Homes and Modern Condos
The real estate market in Redwood Shores is robust, reflecting the area's desirability and proximity to major tech hubs. As of 2024, the median home price for single-family homes is around $2.5 million. Condominiums and townhomes offer more affordable options, typically ranging from $900,000 to $2.2 million.
It's worth noting that waterfront properties command a premium, with prices starting in the mid $2 million range and going up to $3 million or more for homes with direct water access.
If you want an even deeper look at some other affordable options all across San Mateo County, give this a read!
Nevertheless, Redwood Shores offers a thriving business hub. The community is home to major tech companies, including:
Oracle: The tech giant's headquarters and biggest campus is located in Redwood Shores.
Electronic Arts: One of the pioneers in the video game industry also calls Redwood Shores home.
These companies and others in the area provide numerous employment opportunities, particularly in the tech sector, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Redwood Shores offers a unique living experience that combines the tranquility of waterfront living with the excitement of being near major tech hubs. Its excellent schools, abundant recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community make it ideal for families and professionals. While the cost of living is high, you can easily find the quality of life is well worth the investment.
All in all, if you’re considering making a move, this new waterfront community could be your ideal place. All you have to do is email me at hello@burlingameproperties.com or text 650-822-7088, and we can get started on searching for your perfect Redwood City home right away!
Frequently Asked Questions
What outdoor activities are available in Redwood Shores?
Residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including walking, jogging, or cycling on the 5-mile Bay Trail, kayaking and paddleboarding in the lagoons, and sailing at the Spinnaker Sailing School. Seven public parks are also in the community.
Is there public transportation in Redwood Shores?
While public transportation options within Redwood Shores itself are limited, the community is conveniently located near major highways (101 and 92) for easy access to surrounding areas. The nearest Caltrain station is in Belmont for commutes to San Francisco or Silicon Valley.
What are the schools like in Redwood Shores?
Redwood Shores is known for its excellent schools. It's part of the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District and has three elementary schools: Redwood Shores Elementary School, Sandpiper School, and Edison Montessori. For high school, students typically attend the top-ranked Carlmont High School in nearby Belmont.
This article is copyrighted by Raziel Ungar and may not be reproduced or copied without express written permission.
