Find hotels in San Mateo from $36

Top reasons to visit San Mateo

• Outdoor Adventures: San Mateo offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking and exploring picturesque scenery.
• Charming Local Culture: Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere by visiting local churches and engaging with friendly residents.
• Botanical Gardens: Stroll through lush botanical gardens that showcase Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.
• Relaxing Accommodations: Choose from pet-friendly hotels and cozy bed & breakfasts for a comfortable stay.
• Accessible Beaches: Explore nearby beaches that provide a refreshing getaway for families and travelers alike.

Find great hotels near San Mateo

Discover a range of inviting accommodations in San Mateo, Alajuela Province, where you can find pet-friendly hotels and charming bed & breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a family getaway or an adventurous vacation, San Mateo offers options like Hotel San Mateo Suites and Madrid Hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay with essential room amenities. Experience the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality as you explore this beautiful destination.

• Fiesta Resort Central Pacific - All Inclusive: This vibrant 3.5-star resort is perfect for families and beach lovers, located 15 miles from San Mateo. The Fiesta Resort offers a unique all-inclusive experience, featuring unlimited food and drinks, alongside a plethora of fun activities. Enjoy bartending lessons, mini-golf, and themed parties, or relax with a massage at the full-service spa. Families will appreciate the dedicated children's amenities, including a kids’ club and playground, ensuring everyone has a memorable stay. With direct beach access, it’s an ideal spot for sun-soaked relaxation and adventure.
• Pumilio Mountain & Ocean Hotel: Nestled 21 miles from San Mateo, this 4-star hotel combines luxury with breathtaking views of both mountains and the ocean. Pumilio is designed for families seeking a serene beach vacation. The hotel boasts direct beach access and offers a variety of children's amenities, including beach toys and a dedicated pool area. Guests can indulge in spa treatments like hot stone massages and body scrubs, or unwind in the pool cabanas. This hotel provides a perfect blend of relaxation and family-friendly activities, making it a versatile choice for travelers.
• Hotel Punta Leona: Located 19 miles from San Mateo, this 3-star resort is an excellent choice for families seeking a beach getaway. Hotel Punta Leona features direct access to pristine beaches and offers various amenities for children, such as a mini-golf course and a shared playground. Families can relax in the child-friendly pool while enjoying the natural surroundings. With its focus on family-friendly activities and services, Hotel Punta Leona provides a welcoming atmosphere for a fun-filled vacation.

Where to stay near San Mateo

San Mateo, nestled in Alajuela Province, is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore its picturesque scenery and immerse yourself in a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. Nearby attractions offer a blend of relaxation and romance, making it ideal for unforgettable vacations. With its convenient location, you can easily access charming neighborhoods and scenic spots that will make your experience in Costa Rica truly memorable.

• Orotina: Nestled a mere 3 miles from San Mateo, Orotina is a charming city that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its outdoor activities and stunning scenery, Orotina offers experiences that include zipline ropes courses and various adventure activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of nearby beaches and national parks, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or a longer stay. The peak travel months of January, April, and July bring a vibrant atmosphere to this welcoming city, ensuring that you'll find plenty to do and see.
• El Mastate: Just 3 miles from San Mateo, El Mastate is another city that captures the essence of Costa Rica's lush landscapes and adventure opportunities. With a focus on outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery, El Mastate is ideal for those looking to explore the wonders of nature. Visitors often flock to the nearby beaches and national state parks, especially during the peak season from January to March. This vibrant city offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can connect with the stunning natural environment.
• Hacienda Vieja: Located only 3 miles away from San Mateo, Hacienda Vieja is a delightful city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. The area's appeal lies in its proximity to national state parks, offering visitors a chance to experience the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica. Peak travel times from January to March attract those eager to soak up the sun and engage in various outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach or embark on an adventure, Hacienda Vieja has something for everyone.

Things to do near San Mateo

San Mateo, located in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including relaxing stays at local resorts, exploring shopping centers, and discovering unique stores. With its charming atmosphere and memorable experiences, San Mateo promises a delightful getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

In San Mateo, you can explore local shops and boutiques for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the San Ramon Municipal Market, 11 miles away, offers a vibrant atmosphere, while the City Mall and Central Market Alajuela, both 22 miles away, feature a variety of shopping options and entertainment.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Guillermo Vargas Roldan Stadium, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For a tranquil escape, visit Las Cataratas de Los Chorros, where you can unwind amidst stunning waterfalls. Lastly, indulge in luxury at Melia Cariari Golf Course, offering pristine greens and exquisite amenities for a perfect day out.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Rainforest Adventures Jaco, located 21 miles from San Mateo, offering an exhilarating ropes course set in a vibrant outdoor environment. For an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping at Tropical Bungee, situated 20 miles away, where adventure vibes await. Enjoy a fun outing at Cariari Bowling Center, located 25 miles away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Mateo with a visit to the Playa Guacalillo Bird Observatory, perfect for stargazing. For a touch of culture and romance, enjoy a show at Teatro Jacó or the National Theater, both offering family-friendly entertainment just a short drive away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Mateo

To save money on your trip to San Mateo, visit between September and November for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, preferably on a Tuesday for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Combining flights and hotel stays through an Expedia package can yield additional savings. Consider eco-friendly hotel options and use the price filter for the best deals. Don’t forget to sign up for Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and rewards on future bookings.

• 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: Booking a hotel in San Mateo about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences based on budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in San Mateo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near San Mateo

San Mateo, nestled in Alajuela Province, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the local beaches, visit charming churches, and stroll through lush botanical gardens. This vibrant destination is ideal for families and travelers seeking a refreshing beach experience, making it a delightful spot for memorable activities in the heart of Costa Rica.

• Carara National Park: Located 12 miles from San Mateo, Carara National Park offers a serene escape into nature. Known for its diverse wildlife and lush landscapes, visitors can enjoy tranquil hikes surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, perfect for couples and nature lovers seeking romance and relaxation.
• Palmares Church: Situated 10 miles from San Mateo, Palmares Church is a cultural gem. Its stunning architecture and rich history provide a glimpse into local traditions, making it an ideal stop for those interested in Costa Rican heritage and the spiritual ambiance of the region.
• Puntarenas Beach: About 15 miles from San Mateo, Puntarenas Beach boasts beautiful sandy shores and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beach vibes, it’s an excellent spot for relaxation and water activities.

Best time to go to San Mateo

The best time to visit San Mateo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	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	Slightly Low	Average
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	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

Traveling to San Mateo, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, is convenient through several nearby airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is located 22 miles away, with excellent hotels such as the InterContinental Costa Rica and Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, both offering airport shuttle services. Quepos (XQP) is 44 miles away, where you can find luxurious options like Makanda by the Sea, providing 24-hour shuttle access. Additionally, Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 42 miles distant, with nearby hotels like Hotel Nantipa and LALOON Luxury Suites, both ideal for a beach experience. These airports and accommodations ensure a seamless travel experience to San Mateo.