San Mateo

Travel Guide

Take a trip to explore cloud forests, volcanoes, and charming neighborhoods while enjoying outdoor adventures in San Mateo.

San Mateo is an ideal destination for outdoor, adventure travelers. Nearby, you can explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve and Poás Volcano National Park, both known for their unique natural environments. In addition to these natural attractions, you can visit Sabana Park for a leisurely stroll or picnic. For those seeking activities, Turu Ba Ri Nature & Adventure Park offers various outdoor experiences, while the National Stadium of Costa Rica provides opportunities to catch a sporting event. Nearby shopping venues such as Plaza Real Cariari and Avenida Escazú Shopping Center cater to those looking to shop and dine.

While you're in San Mateo, consider exploring the nearby neighborhoods for a fuller experience. Hacienda Vieja is known for its scenic adventure experiences, making it a great spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Orotina also offers outdoor activities and adventure experiences, attracting visitors who enjoy the outdoors. Another nearby area, Coyolar, is recognized for its beach and outdoor experiences, providing a different dimension to your exploration of the region.

The best time to visit San Mateo depends on your preferences regarding rain and crowds. The weather remains mild and fairly constant throughout the year. However, the heaviest rainfall occurs from May to November, which may influence your plans. If you prefer drier conditions and fewer tourists, visiting outside of this rainy season could enhance your experience.

Fiesta Resort Central Pacific - All Inclusive

Fiesta Resort Central Pacific - All Inclusive

3.5 out of 5
El Roble 23 El Roble Puntarenas
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is $220 total per night from Dec 7 to Dec 8
$220 total
per night
Dec 7 - Dec 8
Enjoy free parking, 4 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Puntarenas ...
Fiesta Resort Central Pacific - All Inclusive
Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol

Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol

4 out of 5
300m este de la intersección de Calle Llanos con la Radial El Coyol San José Alajuela
The price is $124 total per night from Nov 27 to Nov 28
$124 total
per night
Nov 27 - Nov 28
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San José. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Popular attractions Parque Viva and Rescate Wildlife ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (132 reviews)
"New property so everything worked well. Breakfast was superb and staff very friendly."

Reviewed on Nov 10, 2026

Residence Inn By Marriott San Jose Alajuela El Coyol
Hotel Punta Leona

Hotel Punta Leona

3 out of 5
Punta Leona Garabito Tárcoles Puntarenas
The price is $135 total per night from Nov 12 to Nov 13
$135 total
per night
Nov 12 - Nov 13
Book a stay at this beach resort in Tárcoles. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 3 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews)
"The resort is VERY spread out, amenities are not easy to get too and to leave the compound you have to drive at least 10-15 mins to get out. The food selections are extremely limited and expensive for pretty much pre frozen options. Even the breakfast buffet was small and they wanted $30 pp, they’ve ..."

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2026

Hotel Punta Leona
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.
Buen Camino Hotel, San Mateo

Buen Camino Hotel, San Mateo

3 out of 5
Finca Ecologica del Bosque San Mateo Alajuela Province
Stay at this cabin in San Mateo. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking.
Buen Camino Hotel, San Mateo
Luxury Villa Carao. Jungle Paradise with Starlink WiFi!

Luxury Villa Carao. Jungle Paradise with Starlink WiFi!

San Mateo Provincia de Alajuela
Stay at this villa in San Mateo. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center.
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
"Everything was even better than our expectations. Beautiful location, on-site manager was always available and helpful. Breakfast was fresh and delicious. Magical experience all around!"

Reviewed on Mar 8, 2026

Luxury Villa Carao. Jungle Paradise with Starlink WiFi!
Nomad Living CR

Nomad Living CR

3.5 out of 5
Calle La Barca Tárcoles Provincia de Puntarenas
Stay at this aparthotel in Tárcoles. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Playa Tárcoles and Carara National Park ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (62 reviews)
"Perfect place"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Nomad Living CR
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.

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

What cuisines can you find in San Mateo?
In San Mateo you can find Filipino cuisine, with dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lumpia. Travelers can also enjoy other Asian options such as Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, alongside Latin American choices like Mexican and South American. Italian, French, and Hawaiian cuisines are also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in San Mateo?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in San Mateo by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to San Mateo with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your San Mateo trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in San Mateo?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in San Mateo can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my San Mateo trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your San Mateo trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my San Mateo trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your San Mateo trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to San Mateo?
If it's your first trip to San Mateo, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my San Mateo hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your San Mateo hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near San Mateo

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