Find Cheap Hotels in San Mateo, CA from CA $144

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Discover cheap things to do in San Mateo

San Mateo, California, is a gem for budget-conscious travellers eager to explore without breaking the bank. Begin your adventure at Coyote Point Recreation Area, where families can enjoy scenic picnics, hiking trails, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay—all for free. Just a short drive away, the San Mateo County History Museum offers a fascinating dive into local history with affordable admission, making it a perfect stop for curious minds. Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden, where a modest entrance fee grants you access to serene landscapes ideal for leisurely strolls and family photos. For those who enjoy shopping, the Hillsdale Shopping Center provides an array of shops and eateries, many of which offer budget-friendly options. When it comes to dining, the vibrant downtown area features numerous casual eateries where you can savour delicious meals without overspending. Look for hotels in the downtown vicinity to fully immerse yourself in this lively atmosphere; staying here means you're just a short walk from these attractions, allowing you to experience the local culture with ease. With a mix of affordability and rich experiences, San Mateo promises a memorable trip for families seeking quality without compromise.

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.

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 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

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

  • 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

Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

  • 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

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

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

10/10 Excellent
"Bar/restaurant in the hotel is convenient, good and reasonably priced. Good hotel to stay in if leaving on a cruise"
Cindy 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in San Mateo as a budget traveller?
For budget-friendly accommodation in San Mateo, top choices include Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, with an impressive 9.4 rating, offers excellent value with complimentary self-parking and free buffet breakfast. Guests frequently praise the comfortable, clean rooms and the friendly, great staff.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, rated 9.0. This hotel provides free continental breakfast, including on weekends, and a free grocery shopping service, which is a fantastic perk for budget travellers. Reviewers often highlight the big, superb rooms and the friendly, great staff.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, also provides great value with free buffet breakfast and free wired internet.
How much does a budget hotel in San Mateo cost?
Budget hotel prices in San Mateo vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $144 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of San Mateo is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in San Mateo, the downtown area offers the most convenient and budget-friendly options. This central location provides excellent access to public transport and a variety of affordable dining choices.

The downtown core of San Mateo is well-served by Caltrain, making it easy to explore other parts of the Bay Area without needing a car. Solo travellers will find a good selection of smaller, independent hotels and motels here, often at more competitive rates than larger chains. There are also numerous casual eateries and cafes where one can grab an inexpensive meal.

Additionally, downtown San Mateo boasts a lively option with shops and parks within easy walking distance. For those looking for free activities, the nearby Central Park offers a pleasant green space for relaxation, and the San Mateo Japanese Garden provides a tranquil escape.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in San Mateo?
For top-rated, budget-friendly hotels superb for families in San Mateo, consider the Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, with an excellent 9.0 rating, stands out for its family-friendly amenities. Families will appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast, free grocery shopping service, and the option of a free crib. Guests consistently praise the big, superb rooms and the friendly, great staff.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, rated 8.8. This hotel offers free WiFi and wired internet, ensuring everyone stays connected. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and great staff, clean rooms, and the nice location. Free and easy parking is also a big plus for families travelling by car.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, is also a fantastic option. It provides a free buffet breakfast and free cribs, making mornings and sleeping arrangements straightforward for families.
What cheap hotels in San Mateo offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent options, including Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, rated 9.4, provides a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests often praise the clean and comfortable rooms, as well as the friendly staff. Free self-parking is another valuable amenity here.

Another superb choice is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, with a 9.0 rating. This hotel offers a free continental breakfast daily, and guests frequently highlight the spacious rooms and helpful staff. Additionally, services like complimentary grocery shopping are available.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, also includes a complimentary buffet breakfast. Reviewers often praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the amazing breakfast, and the friendly, helpful staff. Free parking is also provided, adding to its value.

For an extended stay, Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO, rated 7.0, offers a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast.
When is the most affordable time to visit San Mateo?
The most affordable time to visit San Mateo is generally during the off-peak seasons, specifically late autumn (November) and late winter to early spring (January to March), excluding holidays. During these months, demand for accommodation and flights typically decreases, leading to lower prices.

Solo travellers will find that these periods offer more competitive rates on hotels and guesthouses, making a trip to San Mateo more accessible. The weather remains relatively mild, great for exploring the outdoor attractions without the summer crowds.

For families, visiting outside of school holidays can reduce overall trip costs. You'll find better deals on family-friendly accommodation and potentially cheaper airfares.
What are the best cheap hotels in San Mateo with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo featuring a pool, the Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo and the Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo are excellent options.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo, boasting a 9.0 rating, offers an inviting outdoor pool. Guests frequently praise the complimentary breakfast, which includes both continental and full options, available on weekends. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries, making for a comfortable and convenient stay. Reviews often highlight the superb and spacious rooms, as well as the friendly and great staff.

Another superb choice is the 3-star Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, rated 8.8 by our customers. This hotel also features a refreshing outdoor pool. It provides free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries, ensuring a pleasant stay. Customers consistently praise the friendly and great staff, the clean rooms, and the nice location.
Are there any cheap San Mateo hotels near San Francisco Bay?
For affordable accommodation near San Francisco Bay in San Mateo, the Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport is a superb choice.

This hotel, which boasts an 8.8 review rating, offers excellent value with a range of complimentary amenities. Guests particularly appreciate the free buffet breakfast, making for a great start to the day, and free wired internet access keeps you connected. Reviewers frequently highlight the comfortable and clean rooms, the friendly and helpful staff, and the convenient location.
Is San Mateo a budget-friendly destination?
While San Mateo, California, is generally considered more expensive than many other US cities, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, look slightly outside the immediate city centre or consider booking during the off-peak season to find better rates. Travellers might also explore options in neighbouring towns that are well-connected by public transport. The Caltrain provides a convenient and relatively inexpensive way for solo travellers and couples to get around the wider Bay Area, including trips to San Francisco or San Jose, saving on car rental costs.

Couples and solo travellers can enjoy many free activities. Take advantage of the beautiful outdoor spaces like Coyote Point Recreation Area, which offers stunning bay views and walking paths, or stroll through the picturesque downtown area with its variety of shops and cafes. The San Mateo Japanese Garden in Central Park is another lovely, free spot for a relaxing afternoon. For affordable dining, explore the diverse range of casual eateries and food trucks, particularly those offering international cuisines, which can provide excellent value compared to more upscale restaurants.
What cheap hotels in San Mateo offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo with cooking facilities, the Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo and Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO are excellent options.

The 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/San Mateo, rated 9.0 by our customers, provides spacious rooms that are often described as great and large, and all come equipped with a kitchen. Guests consistently praise the complimentary breakfast, which is available daily, and the free grocery shopping service adds great convenience. The staff are frequently mentioned as friendly and great.

Another good choice is the Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO, with a 7.0 rating. This hotel also offers rooms with kitchens, and guests appreciate the clean and spacious rooms. A complimentary grab-and-go breakfast is provided, and free self-parking is available.
Which cheap hotels in San Mateo have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in San Mateo with great customer service, travellers often praise Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, and Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, with an excellent rating of 9.4, consistently receives high marks for its friendly and great staff and excellent service. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary buffet breakfast and free parking, adding to the overall value.

Another superb option is the 3-star Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo, rated 9.0. Customers frequently mention the great and friendly front desk staff and good service. This hotel offers a generous continental breakfast and a free grocery shopping service, which are excellent perks for budget-conscious travellers.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, rated 8.8, is also highly regarded for its amazing customer service and friendly, helpful staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in San Mateo that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in San Mateo are great for handling non-standard arrival or departure times, though specific policies can vary.

The Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport, with an 8.8 rating, often accommodates early check-ins and late check-outs. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, who can assist with these requests. This hotel also offers free breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to its value.

Another good option is The Catrina Hotel, rated 8.2. This hotel also has flexible policies regarding early check-in and late check-out. Reviewers often mention the comfortable, clean rooms and the convenience of free self-parking.

A good tip for any hotel is to contact them directly after booking.
How can I save on a budget hotel in San Mateo with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in San Mateo. Unlock our lowest prices by joining One Key™, Expedia's travel rewards program. It's free and easy to sign up, and you can access member perks too. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in San Mateo?
You'll be pleased to discover that San Mateo, California, offers a wealth of free activities great for budget-conscious solo travellers looking to explore without breaking the bank. From scenic parks to bustling downtown areas, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

For a dose of nature, head to Central Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. You can wander through its beautiful Japanese Garden, admire the rose garden, or simply find a quiet spot to read. Another excellent option is Coyote Point Recreation Area, which boasts stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Bay Trail, watch the planes take off and land at the nearby airport, or simply relax by the water.

Exploring the downtown area is another fantastic free activity. Solo travellers can enjoy window shopping, people-watching, and soaking in the local atmosphere. The downtown area frequently hosts free community events, so it's worth checking the local San Mateo events calendar before your visit.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in San Mateo as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in San Mateo for you.

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