Emerald Lake Hills, CA

County: San Mateo

History

Emerald Lake Hills, California

Emerald Lake Hills is a small unincorporated community located in San Mateo County, California. It is situated in the hills east of El Camino Real and west of Alameda de las Pulgas, just outside the city of Redwood City. This community has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.

The area was originally inhabited by the Ohlone Native American tribe before the Spanish missionaries arrived in the late 18th century. Spanish exploration and colonization of California led to the establishment of various missions and ranches throughout the region, including the nearby Rancho de las Pulgas, which played a significant role in shaping the area's early history.

In the late 1800s, land speculators began buying up large tracts of land in the area, including what is now Emerald Lake Hills. One prominent landowner was Daniel C. Jackling, a mining engineer who acquired significant landholdings in San Mateo County. He established a country estate called "Emerald Lake Farm" on the site of the present-day community. Jackling's estate featured a grand mansion, gardens, and a lake, giving rise to the name "Emerald Lake."

In the early 20th century, the area remained mostly rural, with some farms and orchards dotting the landscape. However, the development of nearby cities like Redwood City and Palo Alto led to an increased demand for housing. As a result, the land in and around Emerald Lake Hills began to be subdivided into smaller parcels for residential development.

The first plot maps were filed in 1926, and by the 1930s, a small community had started to take shape. Homes were primarily built in a rustic, architectural style, often blending into the natural surroundings. Many houses were constructed with locally sourced materials, including logs and stones.

Over time, Emerald Lake Hills grew in population and developed its own unique character. The sense of community and the preservation of the natural environment were key focal points for the residents. The area became known for its natural beauty, with tree-lined streets and ample open space.

Today, Emerald Lake Hills retains its rural charm and picturesque setting. The community is known for its community events, such as the annual neighborhood picnic, where residents gather to celebrate and connect. The area continues to be a desirable place to live, offering a balance of serene countryside living while still being within easy reach of urban amenities.

Attractions

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

This beautiful lake is the central attraction in the area, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.

Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve

This 467-acre park is perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying nature. It offers scenic views of the Bay Area and has various trails to explore.

Filoli Historic House and Garden

Located in nearby Woodside, this historic estate features a stunning garden, a Georgian Revival mansion, and various events and exhibits throughout the year.

Ano Nuevo State Park

A short drive away, this park is known for its elephant seal colony and offers guided tours to see these fascinating creatures up close.

Stanford University

Located in nearby Stanford, this prestigious university offers beautiful architecture, lush grounds, and various museums, including the Cantor Arts Center.

Silicon Valley

Just a short drive away, you can explore the heart of the tech industry, visiting famous companies, innovation centers, and various museums and attractions related to technology.

San Francisco

Emerald Lake Hills is conveniently located near San Francisco, allowing for day trips to enjoy attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and more.

Half Moon Bay

Situated along the picturesque California coastline, Half Moon Bay offers stunning beaches, charming downtown shops, and delicious seafood restaurants.

California Academy of Sciences

Located in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, this world-class museum combines a natural history museum, aquarium, and planetarium under one roof.

Wine tasting

Emerald Lake Hills is just a short drive away from the famous wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma County, allowing for wine enthusiasts to enjoy vineyard tours, wine tastings, and scenic drives through the wine country.

Climate

Emerald Lake Hills, CA has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The region experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, with most precipitation occurring between November and April. Summers are generally dry with little to no rainfall.

The average temperature in Emerald Lake Hills ranges from the mid-40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (7-15 degrees Celsius) during winter months, while summer temperatures average in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves can occasionally occur during the peak summer months, resulting in temperatures in the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37 degrees Celsius).

The region is known for its foggy mornings, particularly during spring and early summer. This coastal fog often rolls in from the Pacific Ocean, providing a cooling effect on the region during hot summer days. However, once the fog burns off, the area typically experiences warm and sunny weather.

Overall, the climate of Emerald Lake Hills is relatively mild and pleasant throughout the year, making it a desirable place to live for those who enjoy moderate temperatures and outdoor activities.

Neighborhoods

Emerald Lake Hills is a small and affluent unincorporated community located in San Mateo County, California. It is nestled in the hills just west of the town of Redwood City and north of Woodside. Here are some of the neighborhoods within Emerald Lake Hills:

Lower Emerald Lake

This neighborhood is situated around the southern portion of Emerald Lake. It features beautiful lakefront homes with scenic views and private docks. The area provides residents with a tranquil and serene setting.

Emerald Hills Estates

This neighborhood consists of larger and more exclusive properties. It offers a sense of privacy and seclusion, with many homes surrounded by extensive landscaping and greenery. Some houses in this area enjoy panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay.

Canyon Road

Located in the eastern part of Emerald Lake Hills, Canyon Road is known for its picturesque canyon landscapes. It is characterized by winding roads and wooded areas, providing a more rustic and natural atmosphere.

Vista Drive

This neighborhood is situated towards the northwestern part of Emerald Lake Hills. It boasts beautiful hilltop views of the surrounding areas and is known for its luxurious homes. The area offers a mix of modern architecture and traditional estates.

Edgewood Park

Although technically not within Emerald Lake Hills, Edgewood Park is a nearby neighborhood that many residents frequent. It is known for its expansive park area, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and biking.

Overall, the neighborhoods of Emerald Lake Hills offer a combination of natural beauty, privacy, and luxury. Each area provides its own unique charm and lifestyle, making it an attractive place to live.

Nearby Cities