A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, rocky cliffs, and the ocean.

Cheap Hotels & Resorts in San Mateo from NZ$181

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Check availability on San Mateo Cheap Hotels

Tonight
20 Aug - 21 Aug
Tomorrow
21 Aug - 22 Aug
This weekend
21 Aug - 23 Aug
Next weekend
28 Aug - 30 Aug

Our top choices for San Mateo cheap hotels

1. The Catrina Hotel

The Catrina Hotel
South San Mateo
United States
Crecencio
NZ$190
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
The Catrina Hotel

2. Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO

Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO
East San Mateo
United States
louis
NZ$225
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO

3. Inn@Bayshore

Inn@Bayshore
East San Mateo
United States
May Flor
NZ$181
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Inn@Bayshore

4. Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo
East San Mateo
United States
jennifer
NZ$245
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

5. Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport
East San Mateo
United States
Cynthia
NZ$225
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

6. Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport
East San Mateo
United States
Briana
NZ$240
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

7. Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo
East San Mateo
United States
shirley
NZ$277
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

8. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG
East San Mateo
United States
Rafael
NZ$247
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

9. LakeFront Lavender House

LakeFront Lavender House
East San Mateo
United States
Luis
NZ$539
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
LakeFront Lavender House

10. @ Marbella Lane - Bright and Cozy Home Near SFO

@ Marbella Lane - Bright and Cozy Home Near SFO
North Central
NZ$530
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
@ Marbella Lane - Bright and Cozy Home Near SFO
View all properties

Find out more about San Mateo

Discover cheap things to do in San Mateo

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 budget-conscious travellers visiting San Mateo, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising on comfort. Each hotel features essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay while keeping costs down.Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With an impressive review rating of 9.4, the Hampton Inn & Suites is a top choice for budget-conscious travellers. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast offered daily and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected and fuel up for the day ahead. The hotel also provides free self-parking, adding to the convenience of this excellent hotel.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a fitness centre accessible around the clock and daily housekeeping services to ensure a pleasant stay. Guests can relax in comfort with air conditioning and enjoy a sofa bed for extra sleeping arrangements. The hotel is known for its friendly service and comfortable atmosphere, making it a welcoming spot for all.
  • 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

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Offering a 9.0 review rating, the Residence Inn by Marriott is perfect for budget travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Guests can take advantage of complimentary breakfast on weekends and free Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for those looking to save while enjoying their stay. The hotel also features a grocery shopping service, allowing guests to prepare meals in their fully equipped kitchen.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the budget amenities, this hotel boasts an outdoor pool, accessible parking, and a rooftop garden for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the convenience of an in-room oven and dishwasher, making longer stays more manageable. The hotel is located near the beach and windsurfing spots, providing opportunities for nearby adventures, while the fitness centre ensures guests can maintain their routines.
  • Neighborhood: East San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Lakeshore Park Beach - 2.2 km, Leo J. Ryan Park - 1.4 km, Edgewater Park - 1.8 km

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a solid review rating of 8.8, the Best Western Inn & Suites has a welcoming atmosphere for budget travellers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast daily, ensuring a hearty start to their day. The hotel also features convenient amenities like free Wi-Fi and cribs for families, making it a practical choice for all types of travelers.
  • Other amenities: The hotel provides a terrace for relaxation and enjoyable views, along with covered and uncovered self-parking options. Additional features include air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and easy access to nearby golf courses, allowing travelers to enjoy local activities at a minimal cost. With late check-out options and a grocery convenience store on-site, this hotel caters well to budget-savvy visitors.
  • Neighborhood: East San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Coyote Point Park - 1.1 km, Poplar Creek Golf Course - 0.9 km, CuriOdyssey - 1.8 km

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

  • 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

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

  • 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

Top San Mateo Hotel Reviews

The Pickwick Hotel

The Pickwick Hotel

8/10 Good
"Only complaint was I was not made aware of the $56.00 payment for parking my car overnight."
Diane 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
The Pickwick Hotel
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Good location."
Gary 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room, very comfortable bed, free cookies and coffee. Excellent value. Great location."
Brittany 2-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
Fairmont San Francisco

Fairmont San Francisco

10/10 Excellent
"We had a wonderful stay at the Fairmont San Francisco in Nob Hill. The hotel itself is beautiful and full of classic San Francisco charm, but the highlight for us was definitely our corner room. The views were absolutely incredible. Being able to look out over the city and across the bay, especially as the light changed throughout the day, made the whole stay feel extra special. There’s something pretty unforgettable about waking up to those sweeping views of San Francisco and then seeing the city and bay lit up at night. We found ourselves just standing by the windows taking it all in. The location on Nob Hill was also perfect for exploring the city, and coming back to such a beautiful hotel at the end of the day made the experience even better. The staff was welcoming and attentive, and everything about our stay felt polished without losing the historic character that makes the Fairmont so iconic. We would absolutely stay here again. If you have the opportunity to book a corner room with a city and bay view, it’s worth it. Those views alone made our stay one we’ll remember for a long time."
Senjo 5-night trip
Posted 16 hours ago
Fairmont San Francisco
Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Staff is helpful and very pleasant. Location was great- walking distance to Union Square."
Melissa 2-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

10/10 Excellent
"Best location. Second time there. Excellent breakfast. Really really nice"
Vickie 2-night trip
Posted 20 hours ago
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

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 JoinVille Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in San Mateo?
Based on reviews, Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour fitness centre. Another top option for your budget-friendly stay is Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.
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 Oracle Park and Pier 39, 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 San Francisco Bay, Coyote Point Park or JoinVille Park.
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.

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