Hotels in San Mateo

San Mateo: Where Coastal Charm Meets Urban Vibes

Nestled between the vibrant city of San Francisco and the stunning landscapes of the Bay Area, San Mateo, California, offers a delightful mix of urban charm and natural beauty. Stroll through downtown San Mateo, where eclectic shops and delectable dining await. Explore the serene beauty of Coyote Point Park, with its breathtaking views of the bay. For culture enthusiasts, the San Mateo County History Museum showcases the region's rich past. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, San Mateo invites you to experience its unique blend of coastal allure and city sophistication. For great hotel rates in San Mateo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in San Mateo

San Mateo offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly options to more upscale stays. Many hotels are conveniently located near attractions and dining, with amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Reviews often highlight cleanliness and helpful staff, making it easy to find a comfortable base for your California getaway. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in San Mateo:

1. Nobu Hotel Palo AltoOpens in a new window: Nobu Hotel Palo Alto is a luxurious 5.0-star hotel that embodies comfort and elegance. With a focus on providing a unique experience for discerning travelers, it features exquisite room designs and exceptional service. The hotel fosters a home-like atmosphere, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued. Notable amenities include multiple meeting rooms and a prime business district location, making it an ideal choice for leisure travelers seeking a refined getaway. Positive feedback highlights the incredible hospitality and attention to detail, creating memorable stays that feel personal and warm.
2. Rosewood Sand HillOpens in a new window: Rosewood Sand Hill is a stunning 5.0-star hotel that caters to adventure enthusiasts and families alike. This property boasts a variety of recreational activities, with adventure sports options just around the corner, ensuring an exciting experience for all. The hotel offers a vibrant atmosphere complemented by spacious accommodations and a comprehensive range of amenities, including a business center and conference space. Guests appreciate the seamless check-in process and the friendly demeanor of the staff, contributing to an enjoyable stay that balances excitement with comfort.
3. The Ritz-CarltonOpens in a new window: The Ritz-Carlton stands out as a remarkable 5.0-star hotel, offering direct beach access and a plethora of adventure activities. This property is perfect for leisure travelers who are looking to unwind by the coast while enjoying a variety of water sports such as kayaking and windsurfing. The hotel features a beautiful ambiance, with well-appointed rooms that exude sophistication and charm. Guests have praised the stunning facilities and outstanding service, which together create a delightful and relaxing vacation experience by the sea.

Top locations to stay in San Mateo

Some of the best areas to stay in San Mateo, California, are El Granada, The East Side, and Bayview. El Granada offers stunning beaches and outdoor adventures, while The East Side features vibrant local culture and dining. Bayview provides a unique blend of community charm and scenic views. For first-time visitors, El Granada is the best choice for its coastal attractions.

1. El GranadaOpens in a new window: Nestled along the stunning coast, El Granada is a beach lover's paradise. With its beautiful shoreline and access to the captivating Half Moon Bay State Beach, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind by the sea. The scenic Waterfront Coastside Trail offers fantastic views and is ideal for walking or biking. Plus, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Castro Street with its charming shops and cafes. El Granada combines the peacefulness of coastal living with exciting outdoor activities, making it a desirable spot for a relaxing getaway.
2. The East SideOpens in a new window: The East Side is a lively area that blends urban excitement with natural beauty. It’s close to San Francisco Bay, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor fun. Shop at the Hillsdale Shopping Center for a variety of retail options, or catch a cultural performance at the historic Orpheum Theatre. Additionally, the area's proximity to dining and entertainment means you'll have plenty to explore after a day of shopping or sightseeing. The East Side is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a vibrant community atmosphere.
3. BayviewOpens in a new window: Bayview offers a unique experience, showcasing a rich local culture and charm. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more relaxed vibe while still being close to city amenities. Enjoy leisurely strolls in the nearby parks, or explore the local shops that reflect the area’s character. While smaller, Bayview provides a genuine sense of community and is a great base for discovering the diverse attractions of the surrounding region.

Things to do in San Mateo

San Mateo is a vibrant destination where you can enjoy lively festivals, thrilling sports events, and breathtaking sunsets. Discover local art scenes, indulge in shopping sprees, or take part in outdoor activities like hiking and boating. With a variety of hotels to choose from, it’s an inviting spot for every traveler!

• Coyote Point ParkOpens in a new window – Spend a day in nature at Coyote Point Park, where you can wander through scenic trails, picnic by the bay, or simply soak in the beautiful views of the San Francisco skyline. The park is also home to a sandy beach, making it a great spot for families to enjoy some fun in the sun.
• Miramar BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Miramar Beach for a relaxing seaside escape. This charming beach offers stunning ocean views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a day of sunbathing. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque coastal scenery!
• FiloliOpens in a new window – Explore the stunning Filoli estate, where you can stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and tour the historic mansion. This site is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, making it a delightful stop for those who appreciate exquisite landscapes and architecture.
• Central ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Central Park, where you can take a peaceful walk, play a game of frisbee, or relax under a tree with a good book. The park's lush greenery and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation.
• Hiller Aviation MuseumOpens in a new window – Discover the fascinating world of aviation at the Hiller Aviation Museum. Here, you can marvel at historic aircraft, learn about the evolution of flight, and even take part in interactive exhibits that will spark your curiosity about the skies.

5 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 in February, November, and December when hotel prices are generally lower. To make the most of your trip, consider staying for at least 2 to 3 days to explore the city’s key landmarks and cultural sites. During your visit, you can check out the historic college university, enjoy the scenic bay, relax at the beach, and attend events at the conference venue or the local stadium. This itinerary offers great value for money, allowing you to experience the rich history and culture of San Mateo without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To find last-minute deals to San Mateo, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enable email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, making it easier to find the best hotel deal. With these tools, you're more likely to see price drops or availability changes for your favorite hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a San Mateo hotel. If you're seeking something different, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and may 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 seems high, we may suggest more budget-friendly dates to increase your chances of finding a great deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to San Mateo's excellent public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that is still well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there is often great value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in San Mateo. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

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 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 mostly sunny conditions.