Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Spent one night at this hotel with family as a break between flights from Hawaii to UK.
The shuttle bus (not pre booked) was to time and picked us up with no problems from SFO.
Location of hotel is right in front of the bay opposite the runways so great if you are a bit of a plane geek (like me and my daughter) - make sure you book a rear room overlooking the bay!
Not many eateries around so we ordered in dominos to deliver as it was 10 pm when we arrived and they let us eat in the...
Spent one night at this hotel with family as a break between flights from Hawaii to UK.
The shuttle bus (not pre booked) was to time and picked us up with no problems from SFO.
Location of hotel is right in front of the bay opposite the runways so great if you are a bit of a plane geek (like me and my daughter) - make sure you book a rear room overlooking the bay!
Not many eateries around so we ordered in dominos to deliver as it was 10 pm when we arrived and they let us eat in the...
Everything about this establishment was fine, great location, easy to access airport and center San Francisco.
Rooms and facilities were clean and how convenient to have parking.
Staff will do their very best to accommodate your requests.
If I do return to this area, I'll surely rebook this hotel.
Everything about this establishment was fine, great location, easy to access airport and center San Francisco.
Rooms and facilities were clean and how convenient to have parking.
Staff will do their very best to accommodate your requests.
If I do return to this area, I'll surely rebook this hotel.
Tamba
Reviewed November 4, 2026Reviewed November 4, 2026
Stayed here for two nights in between a couple of long flights. Couldn’t fault it. Just what we needed. The room was a good size and clean. The decor was a bit shabby, but I believe the hotel is being done up. The breakfast was simple, but decent. The front desk staff were very friendly and helpful. The free shuttle worked a treat, saving us $25+ each way. The area itself is also very nice, with enough to do if you need to waste a few hours. Also decent food available from a variety of...
Stayed here for two nights in between a couple of long flights. Couldn’t fault it. Just what we needed. The room was a good size and clean. The decor was a bit shabby, but I believe the hotel is being done up. The breakfast was simple, but decent. The front desk staff were very friendly and helpful. The free shuttle worked a treat, saving us $25+ each way. The area itself is also very nice, with enough to do if you need to waste a few hours. Also decent food available from a variety of...
Little gem of a place, ideally placed for easy access to both the Presidio and Golden Gate Park. Being on Geary means you have immediate access to the city via Muni buses outside too (either tap in with contactless or if doing more than a return trip buy a day ticket via the app).
Our room was immaculate with comfortable beds. There's obviously some traffic noise due to its location, but this never stopped us sleeping or disturbed us.
Local area is fine to walk around, easy to walk to the de...
Little gem of a place, ideally placed for easy access to both the Presidio and Golden Gate Park. Being on Geary means you have immediate access to the city via Muni buses outside too (either tap in with contactless or if doing more than a return trip buy a day ticket via the app).
Our room was immaculate with comfortable beds. There's obviously some traffic noise due to its location, but this never stopped us sleeping or disturbed us.
Local area is fine to walk around, easy to walk to the de...
Menlo Park Inn has the appearance of an upmarket Motel, with rooms around a central car park… but it's much more than that!
My room was tastefully decorated and well-equipped.
The bed was very comfortable and the environment was quiet.
Highly recommended.
Menlo Park Inn has the appearance of an upmarket Motel, with rooms around a central car park… but it's much more than that!
My room was tastefully decorated and well-equipped.
The bed was very comfortable and the environment was quiet.
Highly recommended.
James
Reviewed September 5, 2023Reviewed September 5, 2023
Great place to stay after a long flight. Parking included. Short walk to The Dog House pub and breakfast at Camino Corner. Staff very helpful and friendly.
Great place to stay after a long flight. Parking included. Short walk to The Dog House pub and breakfast at Camino Corner. Staff very helpful and friendly.
San Mateo, California, offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly activities that cater to adventurous families. Start your exploration at Coyote Point Recreation Area, where you can enjoy scenic views, picnic spots, and free access to nature trails perfect for hiking. The San Mateo Central Park is another great stop, featuring playgrounds for children and the serene Japanese Tea Garden, where entry is free, allowing a peaceful retreat. For a taste of local culture, wander through the San Mateo County History Museum, which often has free admission days and showcases the rich heritage of the region. Food lovers will appreciate the diverse yet affordable dining options in the downtown area, from casual eateries offering delicious tacos to local cafés serving up fresh pastries. If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the hotels around El Camino Real; they often provide great deals while being conveniently located near these attractions. After a day of exploring, unwind at a nearby park or take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, with an array of shops and family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. San Mateo's charm lies in its ability to offer both value and memorable experiences, making it a perfect base for your next adventure.
Find the best cheap hotels in San Mateo
For those seeking affordable accommodation in San Mateo, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising comfort. Each hotel provides essential amenities that ensure a pleasant stay for budget-conscious travellers.
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With an impressive review rating of 9.4, the Hampton Inn & Suites offers exceptional value for budget travellers. Guests can enjoy a free buffet breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring that comfort and convenience are at the forefront of their stay without breaking the bank.
Other amenities: This hotel provides free self-parking, a fitness centre, and daily housekeeping services. Guests can also take advantage of the spacious rooms featuring sofa beds and accessible van parking. The hotel is situated near various attractions, making it an ideal base for exploration.
Neighborhood: East San Mateo
Nearby attractions: Lakeshore Park Beach - 1.1 km, Leo J. Ryan Park - 1.9 km, Los Prados Park - 0.3 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Offering a blend of comfort and affordability, the Residence Inn boasts a strong review rating of 9.0, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers. With complimentary breakfast available on weekends and free Wi-Fi, guests can enjoy a satisfying start to their day without extra costs.
Other amenities: This hotel features an outdoor pool, accessible self-parking, and a rooftop garden for relaxing moments. The rooms come equipped with kitchens, including an oven and dishwasher, catering to guests who prefer self-catering options. Additional perks include a grocery shopping service, a fitness centre, and nearby windsurfing opportunities.
Neighborhood: East San Mateo
Nearby attractions: Lakeshore Park Beach - 2.2 km, Edgewater Park - 1.8 km, Leo J. Ryan Park - 1.4 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Hilton Garden Inn stands out for budget-conscious travellers with a solid review rating of 8.8. Known for its excellent amenities, guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and a relaxing outdoor pool, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
Other amenities: The hotel also features a terrace, 24-hour fitness facilities, and a restaurant that caters to children's meals. Additional offerings include accessible van parking, daily housekeeping, and designer toiletries. Nearby shopping and golf opportunities further enhance the guest experience.
Neighborhood: East San Mateo
Nearby attractions: Mariners Point Golf Center - 1 km, Edgewater Park - 2.2 km, Leo J. Ryan Park - 1.8 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Best Western Inn & Suites is an ideal choice for budget-savvy travellers looking for quality accommodation near San Francisco Airport. With an excellent review rating of 8.8, guests appreciate the complimentary buffet breakfast and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to start the day right without extra costs.
Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a range of features including free toiletries, a terrace to relax, and covered self-parking. The hotel also provides accessible van parking, daily housekeeping, and a microwave for added convenience. Nearby golf courses and a grocery store enhance the overall stay, providing options for leisure and essentials.
Neighborhood: East San Mateo
Nearby attractions: Coyote Point Park - 1.1 km, Poplar Creek Golf Course - 0.9 km, CuriOdyssey - 1.8 km
Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites is a reliable choice for budget travellers, with a review rating of 7.8. Offering free Wi-Fi, it ensures that guests stay connected without incurring additional costs during their visit to San Mateo.
Other amenities: This hotel includes 24-hour fitness facilities, self-parking, and a restaurant with kids' meal options. Guests can relax in comfortable rooms featuring microwaves for easy meal preparation and daily housekeeping services. The location is also convenient for those looking to explore nearby golf courses.
Neighborhood: East San Mateo
Nearby attractions: Coyote Point Park - 1.1 km, Poplar Creek Golf Course - 1.2 km, CuriOdyssey - 2.1 km
Frequently Asked Questions
What is San Mateo like for travellers on a budget?
San Mateo has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a budget-friendly holiday choice. In addition to its well-known attractions such as San Francisco Bay, this destination is home to Coyote Point Park and Sawyer Camp Trail, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in San Mateo?
When is the best time for a budget trip to San Mateo?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to San Mateo, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually September and August, with an average temperature of 18°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 12°C. Average annual precipitation for San Mateo is 499 mm.
What is there to see and do in San Mateo?
San Mateo attracts visitors with its major shopping area and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions that interest you most, such as San Francisco Bay and Chase Center, and then look for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. If you're eager to get outdoors, you can enjoy the natural setting at Coyote Point Park, Sawyer Camp Trail or The San Mateo Japanese Garden.
How can I get to San Mateo and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in San Mateo can help keep you on budget. The closest airport is 5 mi (8.1 km) from the centre in San Francisco International Airport (SFO). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to San Carlos, CA (SQL), which is 5.3 mi (8.5 km) away. If you want to travel outside the area, hop on a train from San Mateo Station, Hayward Park Station or Hillsdale Station.