San Mateo County is located just north of Silicon Valley, and is an ethnically diverse and affluent community. Redwood City is the county seat.  There is traffic court in San Mateo County. The population as of 2010 was  718,451.

San Mateo’s natural beauty and accessible location has made it a top destination among tourists and travelers. Recreation opportunities and tourist attractions include camping, golf courses, museums, beaches, day spas and wineries. Sawy Cellar Wines in Redwood City, Thomas Fogarty Winery in Portola Valley and La Nebbia Winery in Half Moon Bay  are some of the most celebrated wineries in the area. Moss Beach is a favorite stop for tourists and locals for its gorgeous beaches and also for the famous Moss Beach Distillery, originally a speakeasy and now a historic restaurant. Golfing is very popular in San Mateo County and excellent golf courses can be found in Burlingame, Half Moon Bay and the rest of the county.