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Top reasons to visit San Mateo

• Outdoor Adventures: San Mateo offers tranquil trails and beautiful beaches, perfect for nature lovers and families.
• Vibrant Shopping Centres: Enjoy a mix of local boutiques and large shopping malls for a fantastic retail experience.
• Cultural Experiences: Explore historic colleges and engage with the area's rich history and traditions.
• Mild Mediterranean Climate: The pleasant weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
• Proximity to San Francisco: Just a short drive away, enjoy the iconic sights and attractions of San Francisco.

Find great hotels near San Mateo

Discover a range of accommodation options in San Mateo, California, perfect for every traveller. From business-friendly hotels to cosy guesthouses, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere for all, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly options. Whether you're seeking luxurious suites or affordable apartments, San Mateo has something to suit your needs for a memorable stay.

• Travelodge by Wyndham San Francisco Airport North: This motel is an excellent choice for business travellers seeking convenience and practicality. Located 11.3km from San Mateo, it offers essential business amenities such as meeting rooms and conference space, making it ideal for those looking to conduct meetings or conferences nearby. Guests appreciate the straightforward accommodations and the close proximity to San Francisco International Airport, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
• SFO El Rancho Inn SureStay Collection by Best Western: A delightful 3-star hotel located 8.0km from San Mateo, SFO El Rancho Inn is perfect for shoppers and business travellers alike. This property is proudly affiliated with LGBTQIA travel guides, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. With multiple meeting rooms and conference space available, it caters well to corporate needs. The hotel’s location in the shopping district adds to its appeal, allowing guests to explore local shops and attractions with ease.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport N: Situated 12.9km from San Mateo, La Quinta Inn & Suites offers a warm and inclusive environment, welcoming both LGBTQIA guests and pets. Business travellers will find the 24-hour accessible business centre convenient for their needs. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy allows for a comfortable stay with furry companions, making it an excellent choice for travellers who wish to bring their pets along. Guests enjoy the blend of modern amenities and a friendly atmosphere that this hotel provides.

Where to stay in San Mateo

San Mateo, California, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and vibrant urban experiences. Explore the beautiful Shoreview neighbourhood and enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate, perfect for outdoor adventures. Just a short drive away, the iconic San Francisco boasts stunning scenery and lively attractions. Don’t miss the nearby beaches for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. Your vacation in San Mateo promises to be a memorable getaway filled with friendly locals and rich experiences.

• San Francisco: A vibrant metropolis, San Francisco is a must-visit destination located a short distance from San Mateo. Known for its iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, this city offers an array of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Expect bustling shopping centres, educational museums, and beautiful bay views. The peak tourist season runs from July to September, making it a lively environment filled with events and attractions.
• Burlingame: Nestled just 3.2km from San Mateo, Burlingame is an inviting city perfect for family outings and outdoor escapades. With a charming downtown area featuring delightful shopping options and dining spots, visitors will enjoy a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere. The city sees a rise in visitors during March to April and July, making it an excellent time to explore its parks and local events. Don’t miss the scenic bay views and the nearby sports facilities!
• East San Mateo: This neighbourhood is a hidden gem located around San Mateo, attracting visitors year-round with its business-friendly environment and family-oriented attractions. With convenient access to shopping centres and educational venues, East San Mateo caters to both leisure and work travellers. Peak visitor times are from July to September, offering a lively vibe with numerous events. Enjoy the local tourist precinct and beautiful bay area while you explore this charming neighbourhood.

Things to do in and around San Mateo

San Mateo is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of educational experiences and vibrant shopping centres. Visitors can explore tranquil trails that showcase the area's natural beauty while also enjoying the conveniences of local shopping malls. Whether you're planning a leisurely getaway or a business trip, San Mateo provides a delightful blend of activities to suit every traveler's needs.

Shopping

The nearest mall is Hillsdale Shopping Center, offering a variety of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Stanford Shopping Center, 19.3km away, or The Shops at Tanforan, located 11.3km from San Mateo, both featuring a lively atmosphere and diverse shopping options.

Recreation

At Oracle Park, immerse yourself in the energetic sports atmosphere while enjoying a game. Half Moon Bay Golf Links offers a scenic outdoor golf experience, perfect for relaxation and sport. The Olympic Club features exceptional golfing amidst beautiful surroundings, providing both challenge and tranquility.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at GoKart Racer, located 4.8km from San Mateo, where you can race against friends on exciting tracks. Explore the stunning scenery while hiking the Sawyer Camp Trail, situated in San Mateo, perfect for outdoor adventure lovers. For a competitive edge, check out the Broadway Tennis Center, also 4.8km away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Mateo by catching a show at the War Memorial Opera House or the Victoria Theatre, both offering a mix of culture and entertainment. For a cinematic outing, don’t miss the charming Castro Theatre, perfect for a romantic evening with family.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Mateo

San Mateo is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of free activities, like Coyote Point Park and Miramar Beach. For transport, consider using the bus or Caltrain, which can save you money compared to car rentals. To maximise savings, plan your visit in February or from November to December, as these months offer lower accommodation rates. Book your stay on a Friday for the best prices and use Expedia to find deals, combine your hotel with flights for extra savings, and filter for eco-friendly options to suit your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Mateo are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Mateo is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in San Mateo is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search feature lets you choose your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can sort the results from the lowest to the highest prices, helping you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your San Mateo hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around San Mateo

San Mateo is a fantastic destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of attractions like beaches, urban parks, and historic colleges. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Explore the local attractions to enjoy a memorable vacation, perfect for those looking to relax or delve into the area's rich history and beauty.

• San Francisco Bay: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic bay area, just 11.3km from San Mateo. Enjoy stunning views, waterfront parks, and the chance to explore its diverse marine life, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
• Stanford University: Visit this historic institution located 20.9km away, known for its stunning campus and rich cultural heritage. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and art museums, immersing yourself in the vibrant academic atmosphere and history.
• San Mateo County Event Center: Located within San Mateo, this venue hosts a variety of events, from exhibitions to conferences. Experience the lively business vibe while enjoying local food and entertainment at various gatherings.

Best time to go to San Mateo

The best time to visit San Mateo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Mateo falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature in San Mateo falls in January and December. December has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.2°F (16.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	64.0°F (17.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	65.1°F (18.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
November	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Mateo

San Mateo, California, is conveniently served by three major airports. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a mere 8.0km away, with luxury hotels like the Palace Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, both 19.3km distant, offering shuttle services. Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is located 41.8km from San Mateo, with the Shashi Hotel Mountain View Palo Alto just 14.5km away and also providing airport access. Lastly, Oakland International Airport (OAK) is 19.3km from San Mateo, featuring nearby hotels such as Claremont Resort & Club, which is 16.1km away, and offers convenient transportation options. Enjoy your stay!