Search San Mateo hotels

Top reasons to visit San Mateo

• Outdoor Adventures: San Mateo is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic trails and thrilling surfing opportunities.
• Stunning Scenery: The region boasts breathtaking landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Charming Local Culture: Explore picturesque neighbourhoods and visit historical churches that reflect the local heritage.
• San Mateo Bridge: A notable landmark that enhances the area's natural beauty and offers great photo opportunities.
• Varied Accommodation: Enjoy a range of options from family-friendly hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts.

Find great hotels near San Mateo

Discover a range of accommodation options in San Mateo, Alajuela Province, perfect for every type of traveller. From family-friendly hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, you'll find pet-friendly options and adventurous escapes that cater to your needs. Whether you're looking for the best hotels or exploring Marriott's offerings, San Mateo promises a welcoming experience that combines comfort with the charm of Costa Rica.

• Fiesta Resort Central Pacific - All Inclusive: Nestled 24.1km from San Mateo, Fiesta Resort Central Pacific offers a vibrant all-inclusive experience perfect for families seeking a fun beach holiday. This 3.5-star resort provides unlimited food and drinks, ensuring guests can indulge without worry. Enjoy a variety of activities, from yoga classes to cooking lessons, alongside evening entertainment and themed parties. With amenities tailored for children, including supervised childcare and a dedicated kids' pool, families can relax while the little ones have a blast on the beach.
• Hotel Punta Leona: Located 30.6km away from San Mateo, Hotel Punta Leona is a charming 3-star resort that blends relaxation and adventure. With direct beach access, this property is ideal for families looking to unwind and enjoy a spa-themed retreat. The full-service spa offers services like massages on the beach and various body treatments. Children will love the mini-golf and playground facilities, making it a great spot for family fun. Plus, the inviting pool area provides a perfect place to relax after a day of exploration.
• Hotel Villa Caletas: Situated 32.2km from San Mateo, Hotel Villa Caletas is a luxurious 4-star resort that captivates guests with its stunning views and adventurous spirit. This property is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and excitement, with activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking available nearby. Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, including hot stone massages and body scrubs, alongside direct beach access. With its blend of adventure and relaxation, Villa Caletas promises a memorable vacation experience for couples and families alike.

Where to stay near San Mateo

San Mateo, Alajuela Province, is a hidden gem for Aussie travellers seeking outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Nestled in a tranquil setting, it offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities and romantic spots. Explore the charming local neighbourhoods or venture nearby for breathtaking ocean views and serene beachside getaways. With friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere, San Mateo promises an unforgettable vacation experience in Costa Rica.

• Orotina: Located a mere 4.8km from San Mateo, Orotina is a vibrant city that offers a delightful mix of adventure and scenic beauty. Known for its outdoor experiences, visitors flock here for adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining and exploring lush national parks. The peak travel months of January, April, and July draw in adventurers eager to immerse themselves in local attractions, including pristine beaches and natural reserves. Whether you're seeking thrills or simply want to enjoy the stunning landscapes, Orotina is a must-visit.
• El Mastate: A close neighbour of San Mateo, El Mastate is another charming city just 4.8km away. It attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel months from January to March. Known for its breathtaking scenery and adventurous spirit, El Mastate is perfect for those looking to connect with nature. Enjoy the nearby beaches and stunning national state parks, which provide ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. The area's natural beauty is sure to leave you in awe.
• Hacienda Vieja: Just a short 4.8km jaunt from San Mateo, Hacienda Vieja is renowned for its beautiful beaches and adventurous outdoor pursuits. The city sees an influx of visitors from January to March, making it a prime time to experience its charm. With easy access to national parks and stunning coastlines, Hacienda Vieja is ideal for those looking to relax on the beach or embark on thrilling adventures. Explore the local natural wonders and soak up the sun in this inviting destination.

Things to do near San Mateo

San Mateo, nestled in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore several scenic trails, enjoy surfing opportunities, and relax at local resorts and recreational areas. Be sure to take advantage of travel tips to enhance your experience while discovering the area's unique charm and attractions.

Shopping

For a local shopping experience, visit the San Ramon Municipal Market, located 17.7km from San Mateo, where you’ll find vibrant family-run stalls. If you're up for a drive, check out City Mall and Central Market Alajuela, both 35.4km away, offering a mix of entertainment and local goods.

Recreation

In San Mateo, immerse yourself in the healing waters at Las Cataratas de Los Chorros, a serene spot perfect for relaxation. For an energetic experience, visit the National Stadium of Costa Rica and the Palace of Sports, both offering vibrant atmospheres for sports enthusiasts.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Rainforest Adventures Costa Rica Pacific Park, located 35.4km from San Mateo, where you can soar through the treetops. For a closer adventure, Turu Ba Ri Nature & Adventure Park, only 6.4km away, offers stunning outdoor vibes amidst nature. Enjoy family fun at Balneario Las Musas waterpark, situated 17.7km away, perfect for an entertaining day out.

Nightlife

San Mateo’s nightlife offers a unique blend of entertainment. Visit Playa Guacalillo Bird Observatory for family-friendly vibes, or catch a show at Teatro Jacó for a mix of culture and romance. The National Theater is also a great spot for an enchanting evening filled with art and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Mateo

To save money on your trip to San Mateo, consider visiting between September and November when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to compare prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and bundle your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings. Public transport is affordable, and exploring on foot is a great way to enjoy the area without spending much.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Mateo are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in San Mateo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Mateo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in San Mateo is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable accommodation options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your San Mateo hotel accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near San Mateo

San Mateo, nestled in Alajuela Province, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Explore beautiful beaches, lush botanical gardens, and charming churches that provide a family-friendly experience. Don’t miss a visit to the San Mateo Bridge, a local highlight that adds to the area's appeal for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.

• Carara National Park: Just 19.3km from San Mateo, Carara National Park offers a serene escape into nature. Known for its diverse wildlife and stunning trails, it's perfect for those seeking a peaceful, romantic atmosphere amidst lush surroundings.
• Aguacate Mines: Located 6.4km away, the Aguacate Mines feature rich historical significance. This cultural hotspot immerses visitors in the region's mining history, showcasing its unique heritage and the stories of those who worked there.
• Minas Del Aguacate: Also 6.4km from San Mateo, Minas Del Aguacate is ideal for families. This outdoor precinct provides various activities, making it a fantastic spot for adventure and bonding time with loved ones in a scenic setting.

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 April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in San Mateo falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	69.3°F (20.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Mateo

When visiting San Mateo, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is approximately 35.4km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton, both offering various transportation services. Alternatively, San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) is about 41.8km away, with excellent options such as the 4-star Radisson San Jose and the 4-star Wyndham San Jose Herradura, featuring convenient airport shuttles. For those considering Quepos (XQP), located 70.8km from San Mateo, luxurious accommodations like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea provide shuttle services, ensuring smooth transfers.