Hotels in South San Mateo

Discover Nature’s Haven: South San Mateo’s Hidden Parks and Rich Heritage

Discover the charm of South San Mateo, a hidden gem on the San Francisco Peninsula. Nestled just south of San Francisco, this vibrant destination boasts lush parks and nature reserves, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll through the historic downtown, featuring the stunning San Mateo Courthouse and City Hall, or enjoy serene walks along the picturesque San Francisco Bay. With its proximity to Foster City and the rich tapestry of California genealogy, South San Mateo offers a delightful blend of urban flair and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and adventurers alike. For the best hotel rates in South San Mateo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in South San Mateo

South San Mateo offers exciting attractions like the Chase Center, Pier 39, and Tesla Motors. The Chase Center is great for sports and concerts, Pier 39 features waterfront dining and sea lions, and Tesla Motors showcases innovative electric vehicles. For accommodations, expect options ranging from cozy hotels to upscale venues with convenient access to attractions. For first-time visitors, Pier 39 is the ideal spot, blending entertainment, dining, and stunning views of the bay. Enjoy your trip! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in South San Mateo:

1. Near Chase CenterOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for sports enthusiasts and business travelers alike, thanks to its proximity to the Chase Center, home to exciting events and concerts. The lively atmosphere offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, making it a convenient choice for visitors. For accommodations, consider LUMA Hotel San Francisco Opens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that provides a city-themed experience, ideal for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. Another great option is Hotel VIAOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel tailored for business travelers, featuring a Business Center and Meeting Room for all your professional needs. If you're traveling with pets, Hyatt Place San Francisco DowntownOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel that welcomes pets and offers amenities for your furry companions, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. With its central location and diverse hotel options, this area is an excellent choice for your visit to South San Mateo.

What to do in South San Mateo

Three days in South San Mateo offers a delightful blend of urban parks and nature reserves, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying recreational activities. Explore the scenic landscapes of the San Francisco Peninsula, with opportunities for boating and relaxing in green spaces, all just minutes by bicycle from vibrant shopping areas. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to South San Mateo:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Coyote Point Park, where you can explore the scenic trails and enjoy stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. After soaking in the natural beauty, head over to Lakeshore Park Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the water—perfect for a picnic or simply unwinding with a good book. As the day winds down, make your way to the San Francisco Bay area, where you can take in the mesmerizing sunset, perhaps capturing a few photos to remember this beautiful day.
• Day 2: Start your day with a visit to Filoli, an exquisite estate featuring beautiful gardens and a historic house. Take your time exploring the grounds and appreciating the stunning floral displays. Next, venture to Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve for some invigorating hiking—this area boasts diverse ecosystems and lovely trails. Wrap up your day at the Pulgas Water Temple, a hidden gem where you can admire the architectural beauty and tranquil surroundings, making it a perfect spot for reflection.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to the iconic Pier 39, where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and watching the sea lions basking in the sun. Afterward, head over to the Golden Gate Bridge for a stroll across this engineering marvel—make sure to take plenty of photos! Finally, spend your afternoon in Golden Gate Park, where you can explore its vast gardens, museums, and serene landscapes, wrapping up your trip with a leisurely walk through one of San Francisco's most cherished green spaces.

5 tips to find a great South San Mateo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit South San Mateo is during February, November, and December when hotel rates are more affordable. To truly appreciate the area's main attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Key highlights include the urban park and the historic sites, making it a great value for money for travelers looking to explore without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to South San Mateo, there are some great options available. To explore discounts on Hotels.com, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might find reduced rates as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you take advantage of potential savings.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to various factors, including the location, star rating, and season. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in South San Mateo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in South San Mateo. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in South San Mateo

Here are some popular dishes in South San Mateo, San Mateo, California, United States of America:

• Sourdough Bread: A staple of the Bay Area, sourdough bread is characterized by its tangy flavor and chewy texture, made through a natural fermentation process. Local bakeries in South San Mateo take pride in their artisan loaves, often serving them warm with butter or as the base for sandwiches, making it a perfect quick bite to enjoy while exploring the downtown area.
• Mission-Style Burritos: Originating from the Mission District of San Francisco, these burritos are known for their large size and diverse fillings. In South San Mateo, you can find eateries serving customizable burritos stuffed with ingredients like marinated meats, rice, beans, and fresh salsa, reflecting California's culinary fusion and offering a personalized experience.
• Dim Sum: A delightful culinary tradition, dim sum features a variety of small, shareable dishes served in steamer baskets or on small plates. In South San Mateo, local restaurants provide a casual dining atmosphere perfect for social gatherings, allowing you to sample diverse flavors like dumplings, buns, and rolls, all showcasing the rich heritage of Chinese cuisine.

Best time to go to South San Mateo

South San Mateo experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 51.3°F (10.7°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.9°F (18.3°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in South San Mateo, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.