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San Mateo Cheap Hotels

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Our top choices for San Mateo cheap hotels

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport
2.5 star property
East San Mateo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1252)
"Good place to stay, clean and good breakfast."
United States
Xiaohong
The price is HK$734
HK$844 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Jan - 3 Jan 2026
Best Western Inn & Suites San Mateo - San Francisco Airport

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1011)
"We enjoyed the breakfast "
United States
Michael
The price is HK$902
HK$1,037 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Dec - 1 Jan 2026
Residence Inn by Marriott San Francisco Airport/ San Mateo

The Catrina Hotel

The Catrina Hotel
2.5 star property
South San Mateo
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (943)
"Great stay, would recommend. "
United States
Jesse
The price is HK$657
HK$756 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Jan - 17 Jan 2026
The Catrina Hotel

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

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1019)
"Yes, room was clean, staff very kind. "
United States
Jesus
The price is HK$762
HK$881 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Jan - 24 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG

Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
"Enjoy the stay"
United States
Thaw
The price is HK$950
HK$1,091 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jan - 10 Jan 2026
Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport
3.0 star property
East San Mateo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (836)
"very clean, easy parking, breakfast"
United States
Emily
The price is HK$969
HK$1,114 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Jan - 10 Jan 2026
Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport

Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO

Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO
2.5 star property
East San Mateo
7.2 out of 10, Good, (946)
"Very comfortable "
United States
Yuichi
The price is HK$751
HK$863 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Jan - 25 Jan 2026
Extended Stay America Suites San Francisco San Mateo SFO
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.

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 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

The Catrina Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Catrina Hotel is a charming budget option with a review rating of 8.2, ideal for travellers who value comfort and affordability. Guests can enjoy free self-parking and Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected and explore the area without additional costs. The hotel’s traditional design adds a unique touch to the experience.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a late check-out option and van parking for convenience. Guests can take advantage of air conditioning for comfort during their stay, while express check-in ensures a smooth arrival. With a pet-friendly policy, The Catrina Hotel caters to travellers wishing to bring their furry companions along. Additional features include bike parking and a terrace for relaxation, enhancing the overall experience at an affordable price.
  • Neighborhood: South San Mateo
  • Nearby attractions: Hillsdale Shopping Center - 1.5 km, San Mateo County Event Center - 1.9 km, Central Park - 2.1 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

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?
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 San Francisco Bay and Oracle Park, 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.

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