Welcome to Portola Valley
Visually stunning and serene
Located in San Mateo County, Portola Valley was ranked as the
top richest city in the US in 2016. The city is named after
Gaspar de Portolá, the Spanish military officer and first governor of Northern California. This gorgeous town is known for its large open spaces and scenic nature.
This stunning region resides in a tranquil valley straddling the
San Andreas Fault. The town was
incorporated in 1964 and retains its enchanting rural ambiance. In the early
1900s, many immigrants from Ireland, Portugal, Croatia, China, Italy, Chile, Germany, and the Philippines moved here and joined agricultural means of growing strawberries, herding cattle, and cutting firewood. Considerable residential growth took place in the 1960s, and to this day, the town maintains an excellent balance of modern advancement and preservation of its natural surroundings.
With a median home value of
$2M, this community is affluent. Architects are plentiful, and you will surely find one to work with to create your ideal home. Focusing on designing contemporary, classic, and traditional style homes,
Studio S Squared Architecture works closely with clients to bring their dream homes to life.
Brownhouse Design will aid in upgrading your current home or designing a custom abode from scratch.
What to Love
People & Lifestyle
Portola Valley is a suburb in San Jose with a rural vibe. Most folks are
homeowners, while retirees, professionals, and families alike are attracted to its small-town feel. Most people own cars, and the
average commute is 21 minutes, leaving more time to enjoy life and less time traveling to and from work. If you want a quiet lifestyle with the ability to experience metropolitan activities outwards, Portola Valley is the place for you.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
You’re sure to be entertained by the live music opportunities and many outdoor ventures available in Portola Valley. Enjoy a live jazz show by Portola Valley’s own
Bob Murphy Jazz Ensemble. Sip local wine and catch a
summer jazz concert at
Portola Vineyards.
Ladera Country Shopper is a shopping center on La Cuesta Dr and Alpine Rd that features several restaurants and retailers. Find unique gifts and beautiful plants and flowers at
Ladera Garden & Gifts. Stop by
Bianchini's Market for all of your deli and grocery needs, or head to
Konditorei for your morning bagel and chai.
Dine on bacon jam sliders and tasty wood-fired pizzas and brews in the beer garden at
Rossotti's Alpine Inn. Enjoy fabulous baked organic goat cheese served with house-made focaccia or pappardelle with meat ragu at
Parkside Grille. Scrumptious New England clam chowder and Maine lobster rolls are on the menu at
Old Port Lobster Shack.
Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the highlight of Portola Valley’s attractions. With numerous parks, natural areas, and equestrian accommodations, an outdoor adventurer will be in heaven here.
For a fun family day of swim, tennis, and socializing, head to
Ladera Oaks Club, which features a swim team and junior tennis programs. Enjoy more family-friendly fun at
Alpine Hills Club, which has tennis and swimming lessons for children of all ages and skill levels and an
Aqua Fit program for adults seeking a challenging workout that is forgiving on the body.
Schools
Top educational opportunities include: