San Mateo County approves $3.8 million rebuild of beloved Magic Mountain Playground at Coyote Point
San Mateo County, California – For nearly twenty years, the laughter of children has echoed across the familiar structures of Magic Mountain Playground, tucked inside the well-loved Coyote Point Recreation Area. Generations have climbed its towering features, raced across its swings, and gathered for celebrations that turned ordinary days into lasting memories. Time, however, has quietly taken its toll.
After years of constant use and exposure to the elements, county leaders have decided it is time for a new chapter. In a unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors approved a $3.8 million project to replace the aging playground with a modern space designed to meet today’s safety and accessibility standards.
Originally built in 2006, the playground has reached the end of its functional lifespan. The upcoming transformation will introduce an inclusive play environment where children of all abilities can explore side by side. Plans extend beyond the playground itself, with improvements aimed at making the surrounding area easier to navigate and more welcoming for visitors.
County officials say the vision goes deeper than simply installing new equipment. The goal is to shape a place where families feel connected, where children can play freely, and where new memories can take root for years ahead.
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Coyote Point remains one of the county’s most visited destinations, drawing more than half a million people each year. Its wide-open picnic areas, scenic trails, waterfront access, and marina have long made it a central gathering spot for the community. The playground has been a key part of that experience.
Funding for the project will come from a mix of federal Community Project Funding and local Measure K revenue, reflecting both national and community-level investment in the park’s future.
Community voices have also played a strong role in guiding the redesign. Hundreds of residents have already shared ideas, helping shape features, layout, and accessibility priorities. Additional outreach is planned to continue gathering input as the design evolves.
Even as change approaches, pieces of the old playground will live on. Familiar elements, including the recognizable purple sea creature, are expected to be reimagined within the new design.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring, with completion anticipated by year’s end. During that time, the park will stay open, though areas near the project site may be temporarily closed. Most amenities will remain accessible, ensuring visitors can continue enjoying the space while its next chapter takes shape.
