Hotels in San Mateo

Discover the Enchantment of San Mateo: Where Coastal Charm Meets Urban Elegance

Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula, San Mateo, California, offers a delightful blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Stroll through vibrant downtown, where eclectic shops and gourmet eateries beckon. Discover the serene landscapes of Coyote Point Recreation Area, with its picturesque views of the bay and sandy beaches perfect for picnics. The stunning Japanese Tea Garden in Central Park invites quiet reflection amid lush greenery. With an array of cultural events and outdoor activities, San Mateo is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching experience.

Discover great hotels near San Mateo

San Mateo offers a range of hotels from modern business accommodations to cosy boutique stays. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, inviting common areas and easy access to local attractions, making it an appealing choice for travellers seeking comfort and convenience in California. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near San Mateo:

1. Hilton San Francisco Airport BayfrontOpens in a new window: This 4.0-star hotel offers a refined experience for leisure travellers seeking distinctive comfort and adventure. With an impressive guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the hotel boasts high-quality amenities including express check-in and efficient airport transfers. Guests can indulge in curated experiences and enjoy a luxurious setting with architectural design highlights that elevate the stay. The property offers adventure sports and onsite recreation, complemented by a rooftop ambience that enhances its modern appeal. Its standout features and highly positive guest feedback ensure a memorable and stylish experience for those who appreciate a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
2. Courtyard San Francisco Airport BurlingameOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel provides a superb retreat for leisure travellers, delivering a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. The property is renowned for its convenient airport transfers and express check-in service, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure. Guests benefit from a chic and comfortable setting designed for a contemporary and stylish experience. The hotel's key amenities and positive review sentiments highlight its commitment to luxury and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those who desire a seamless and enjoyable journey.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport WaterfrontOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star hotel caters perfectly to leisure travellers with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. It offers a sophisticated setting with express check-in and premium shuttle services, ensuring a smooth arrival. The property features a range of recreational activities onsite, complemented by high-end architectural design and curated experiences that create a unique and memorable stay. The hotel's positive review sentiments underscore its commitment to comfort and distinctive experiences, making it a standout option for discerning guests who value a blend of modern style and exceptional service.

Where to stay near San Mateo

Half Moon Bay, South San Francisco, and Redwood City are all excellent options for your stay in San Mateo. Half Moon Bay offers beautiful beaches and scenic sunsets, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. South San Francisco is ideal for family-friendly dining and shopping experiences, while Redwood City boasts vibrant cafés and live entertainment. For first-time visitors, Half Moon Bay is particularly appealing for its stunning coastal charm.

1. Half Moon BayOpens in a new window: Half Moon Bay is a stunning coastal destination that's perfect for those who love the beach and the great outdoors. With its picturesque scenery, you can enjoy relaxing afternoons at Miramar Beach or take a stroll along the scenic trails for breathtaking views of the ocean. The area is also known for its charming festivals, making it a great spot for cultural experiences. Don't miss out on birdwatching in the serene habitats around Pillar Point Harbor, or catching a spectacular sunset over the Pacific. With plenty of dining options featuring fresh seafood, Half Moon Bay is an ideal base for a relaxing getaway surrounded by natural beauty.
2. South San FranciscoOpens in a new window: South San Francisco is a vibrant city that welcomes families and shoppers alike. The area boasts a variety of dining and shopping options, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore local flavours and unique boutiques. Enjoy a leisurely day at San Bruno Point Park, where you can appreciate scenic views and take part in family-friendly activities. The city is also well-connected to nearby attractions, including the iconic Golden Gate Park, making it a convenient base to explore the larger San Francisco area. With its friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly options, South San Francisco is a lovely spot for a relaxed stay.
3. Redwood CityOpens in a new window: Redwood City offers a delightful blend of cultural attractions and lively entertainment. Known for its charming downtown area, visitors can explore a variety of cafes and shops, perfect for a leisurely day out. The city features a dynamic theatre scene, with cultural events that showcase local talent. It's also a great place for families, with parks and activities that cater to all ages. The vibrant atmosphere of Redwood City makes it a pleasant place to unwind after a day of exploring the Bay Area, ensuring that there's never a dull moment during your stay.

Things to do in San Mateo

San Mateo charms visitors with lively festivals, scenic seaside sunsets, and invigorating sports like hiking and boating. Enjoy art exhibitions, boutique shopping, and outdoor markets. It’s a vibrant and welcoming destination for anyone keen to explore its dynamic blend of activities.

• Palo Alto Art CenterOpens in a new window – Begin your San Mateo journey with a visit to the Palo Alto Art CenterOpens in a new window, where you can explore a vibrant collection of contemporary art exhibits in a welcoming environment.
• FiloliOpens in a new window – Continue your adventure at FiloliOpens in a new window, a historic building that offers a glimpse into California’s past, complete with beautiful period architecture and well-manicured grounds.
• Rockaway BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy a relaxing day at Rockaway BeachOpens in a new window, a sandy beach where you can soak up the sun, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze.
• Pillar Point HarborOpens in a new window – Visit Pillar Point HarborOpens in a new window to witness a bustling harbour scene. You can watch boats come and go while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this working harbour.
• Miramar BeachOpens in a new window – Finally, unwind at Miramar BeachOpens in a new window, another sandy retreat where you can appreciate the gentle rhythm of the waves and the expansive views of the sea.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San Mateo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit San Mateo are February, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those looking to explore the city's landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows visitors to enjoy a variety of experiences, including local festivals, dining options, art galleries, and family-friendly activities, all while benefiting from the affordable prices that may drop during these months. San Mateo offers great value for money, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travellers seeking a rich cultural experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: You may discover attractive hotel deals in San Mateo by visiting the DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where discounted rates might be available. For travellers seeking last-minute offers, the Last-Minute Deals section could offer opportunities close to your travel date. Additionally, by enabling email alerts or push notifications, you're more likely to see flash sales, and using the Smart Shopping feature on the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities effectively. This approach may help you secure a timely hotel deal for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could potentially help you find a better deal for your stay in a San Mateo hotel. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised atmosphere and may sometimes offer enhanced value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may recommend alternative dates that could lead to more affordable options.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but with San Mateo’s outstanding public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-linked. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to San Mateo

San Mateo experiences its lowest average temperatures in January, and December, at 52.3°F (11.3°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 65.3°F (18.5°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit San Mateo are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.