Hotels in San Mateo

San Mateo: A Tapestry of Coastal Charm and Cultural Wonders

Discover San Mateo, California, a charming city nestled between the vibrant tech hub of Silicon Valley and the scenic beauty of the Bay Area. Stroll through lush parks like Coyote Point, where breathtaking bay views await, or immerse yourself in the diverse culinary scene that celebrates global flavours. Explore the historic downtown with its delightful shops and art galleries. With its mild climate and proximity to both bustling urban life and serene nature, San Mateo offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Discover great hotels in San Mateo

San Mateo offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from modern chains to quaint inns. Guests can enjoy comfortable amenities, convenient locations, and easy access to local attractions. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly option or a more upscale experience, San Mateo has plenty to cater to your needs. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in San Mateo:

1. Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfrontopens in new window: This 4.0-star hotel offers a perfect blend of adventure and business-focused amenities. Frequent travellers will appreciate the on-site adventure sports options, including hiking and biking. The property features a well-equipped Business Centre, conference spaces, and accessible meeting rooms, catering to those seeking a productive stay. The hotel stands out with its recreational activities available nearby, ensuring guests can balance work with leisure seamlessly.
2. Courtyard San Francisco Airport Burlingameopens in new window: This welcoming 3.0-star hotel prioritises a business-themed experience while embracing the LGBTQIA community. The property boasts essential amenities such as a 24-hour Business Centre and multiple meeting rooms, making it an ideal choice for corporate travellers. The hotel’s atmosphere encourages networking and collaboration, providing an inviting space for professionals to connect and thrive during their stay.
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Waterfrontopens in new window: This 3.5-star hotel is tailored for adventure seekers and business travellers alike. With a range of amenities including a Business Centre and meeting rooms, it seamlessly caters to corporate needs. For those looking for outdoor activities, the hotel offers fishing and hiking options on-site, creating a unique blend of work and play. The property’s thoughtful design and recreational features make it an attractive choice for those who appreciate distinctive experiences in their travels.

Top locations to stay in San Mateo

In Half Moon Bay, South San Francisco, and Redwood City, each area offers unique attractions for travellers. Half Moon Bay is renowned for its stunning beaches and coastal scenery, South San Francisco boasts a vibrant atmosphere with diverse dining options, while Redwood City is celebrated for its charming cafes and lively downtown. For first-time visitors, Half Moon Bay is the ideal choice to experience California's coastal beauty.

1. Half Moon Bayopens in new window: Half Moon Bay is a stunning coastal destination perfect for those looking to unwind by the beach. With its picturesque shoreline, visitors can enjoy long walks along the sandy beaches or indulge in water activities like surfing and kayaking. The charming downtown area features quaint shops and local art galleries, offering a unique shopping experience. Half Moon Bay is also famous for its pumpkin festivals and beautiful coastal trails, providing a range of outdoor activities amid breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Redwood Cityopens in new window: Redwood City is a vibrant area known for its lovely cafes and a welcoming community atmosphere. The downtown area is filled with a variety of shops and eateries, making it a delightful spot for leisurely strolls and casual dining. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic Fox Theatre and enjoy cultural events throughout the year. Redwood City also serves as a gateway to nearby parks, where you can enjoy scenic hikes and nature walks amidst the towering redwoods.
3. South San Franciscoopens in new window: South San Francisco offers a blend of urban convenience and outdoor charm. With its easy access to San Francisco and the Bay Area, it's a practical base for exploring the region. The city features lovely parks and green spaces, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. South San Francisco is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including local theatres and art galleries, ensuring there's always something happening. Its vibrant dining scene adds to its appeal, making it an excellent choice for food enthusiasts.

Things to do in San Mateo

San Mateo boasts a vibrant blend of outdoor fun and cultural experiences. Explore hiking trails with breathtaking views, enjoy lively festivals, or indulge in local shopping. As the sun sets, unwind by the waterfront or immerse yourself in the local art scene, making it an unforgettable getaway.

• Golden Gate Parkopens in new window – Spend a day exploring Golden Gate Park, an expansive urban oasis filled with winding paths, lush gardens, and serene lakes. You can stroll through the beautiful flower-filled Conservatory of Flowers, or take a leisurely bike ride along the park's scenic routes. Don't forget to check out the Japanese Tea Garden for a tranquil escape.
• Pier 39opens in new window – Head to Pier 39 for a lively waterfront experience. This bustling jetty is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many eateries, and be sure to catch a glimpse of the playful sea lions lounging on the docks. The views of the bay and the iconic San Francisco skyline are simply breathtaking.
• Presidio of San Franciscoopens in new window – Discover the historical charm of the Presidio of San Francisco, a former military post turned national park. With its scenic trails and stunning vistas, you can hike among the eucalyptus trees or relax on the grassy hills while soaking in views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The area is rich in history, with several museums and preserved buildings to explore.
• Lombard Streetopens in new window – Take a drive or stroll down Lombard Street, famously known as the crookedest street in the world. This unique street features eight sharp turns and beautifully landscaped flowerbeds that create a stunning visual experience. Capture some memorable photos as you navigate the charming twists and turns.
• Ocean Beachopens in new window – Unwind at Ocean Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Take a leisurely walk along the shore, watch the surfers ride the waves, or simply enjoy the stunning sunset views. The roar of the ocean and the salty breeze create a refreshing escape from the bustling city.

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

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit San Mateo is during February, November, and December, when hotel prices may drop. For an affordable getaway, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the city's historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy vibrant festivals, delightful dining options, engaging art scenes, and picturesque sunsets, all while exploring family-friendly activities like biking and shopping. This makes for a trip that offers great value for money without stretching the budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to San Mateo on Hotels.com, begin by exploring the Dealsopens in new window or Last-Minute Deals sections, where you may find discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed choices. By being vigilant, you're more likely to see opportunities to save when prices drop or new rooms become available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on your stay at a hotel in San Mateo. For those in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels may provide a more personalised experience and sometimes better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we’ll suggest more affordable dates that may help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but thanks to San Mateo's outstanding public transport connections, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those eager 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 is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in San Mateo, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.