Hotels in San Mateo

Discover the Enchanted Oasis of San Mateo: Nature’s Canvas and Cultural Tapestry

Nestled between the San Francisco Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, San Mateo enchants visitors with its charming mix of urban vibrancy and natural beauty. Explore the lush vistas of Coyote Point Park, where coastal trails meet stunning bay views, or wander through the serene Japanese Tea Garden. The bustling downtown offers a delightful array of restaurants and shops, while the historic B Street thrives with cultural events. With its friendly atmosphere and diverse attractions, San Mateo serves as a perfect base for exploring the Bay Area’s treasures, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and urban adventurers alike.

Top locations to stay in San Mateo

When visiting San Mateo, California, standout areas to consider are South San Francisco, Foster City, and Redwood City. South San Francisco boasts excellent dining options, while Foster City is ideal for kitesurfing enthusiasts, and Redwood City is known for its vibrant café culture. For first-time visitors, Redwood City offers a lively atmosphere and convenient access to attractions.

1. Redwood CityOpens in a new window: Redwood City is a fantastic place to stay, especially if you enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with charming cafes and local shops. The downtown area is known for its welcoming vibe, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying outdoor events. You can explore the lively waterfront, where you'll find parks and recreational activities. With its beautiful weather, Redwood City is also ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature through hiking and biking trails in nearby parks.
2. Foster CityOpens in a new window: Foster City is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing stay by the water. This scenic area is renowned for its beautiful waterfront views and recreational activities, including kitesurfing and sailing. You can spend your days enjoying the extensive parks, perfect for picnics and family outings, or take a leisurely walk along the picturesque lagoon. With a laid-back atmosphere and friendly community, Foster City is perfect for unwinding while still being close to the action of the Bay Area.
3. South San FranciscoOpens in a new window: South San Francisco is a great spot to base your stay, offering a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known for its stunning views and proximity to San Francisco International Airport, this city is ideal for travellers looking for easy access to the bustling city life nearby. You can explore the local parks and trails, where you can soak in the scenic views of the Bay. The city's diverse dining scene also makes it a delight for food lovers, providing a variety of cuisines to enjoy after a day of exploring.

Things to do in San Mateo

San Mateo is a vibrant haven for travellers, offering lively festivals, exciting sports events, and breathtaking sunsets. Enjoy leisurely boating on serene waters, explore scenic hiking trails, and indulge in delightful shopping experiences. With a thriving arts scene, there's always something new and inspiring to discover!

• Van Ness AvenueOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll down Van Ness Avenue, a vibrant street that showcases the essence of urban life. As you wander, enjoy the mix of shops, eateries, and local culture that embody the spirit of San Mateo. This street is perfect for those who appreciate a lively atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee or explore unique boutiques along the way.
• Castro StreetOpens in a new window – Venture into Castro Street, a charming neighbourhood that offers a delightful blend of community spirit and local flair. Here, you can experience a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more sophisticated restaurants. The welcoming vibe of Castro Street makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon, whether you’re indulging in some retail therapy or simply soaking up the local scene.

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

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit San Mateo are in February, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a budget-friendly trip, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is advisable to fully immerse yourself in the city's historical landmarks and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy a variety of experiences, including art galleries, local festivals, family-friendly activities, and delightful dining options. The city also offers opportunities for biking and shopping, ensuring a great value for money while you take in beautiful sunsets and engage in the vibrant atmosphere of San Mateo.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to San Mateo, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you save on your stay. Additionally, utilise the Smart Shopping tool via the app to compare hotel prices and amenities; this way, if rooms become available or prices drop, you're more likely to be notified first, making your booking experience seamless.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in San Mateo. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised atmosphere and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest more affordable dates, which may help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but thanks to San Mateo's outstanding public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a little further out that is still 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 is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in San Mateo, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.