San Mateo holiday lettings

We found 185 holiday rentals — enter your dates for availability

Discover a selection of 5 villas and other holiday rentals in San Mateo that are perfect for your trip. Whether you're travelling with your children and pets, with friends or just your children, holiday rentals have the best amenities for spending time at your holiday home, which might include parking and a garden. Whatever you're looking for, you'll be sure to find a property to rent for everyone's needs, including accessible or non-smoking choices.

Holiday rentals with weekly discounts - San Mateo

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Choose a holiday rental for your San Mateo getaway

Learn about the unique charm of San Mateo with a stay in a holiday home rental. This city has something for everyone. With a holiday rental, you get a home away from home – many rentals offer full kitchens and outdoor grills for some home cooking.

Activities and attractions in and around San Mateo

Are you looking for things to do in the area? Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and check out everything that San Mateo has to offer. These are some of the top attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Hacienda las Agujas (16.6 mi / 26.7 km)
  • Turu Ba Ri Nature & Adventure Park (4 mi / 6.5 km)
  • Minas Del Aguacate (4.2 mi / 6.7 km)
  • Tabacos de la Cordillera (13.4 mi / 21.5 km)

Exploring the natural features in San Mateo

Whether you're an adventurous traveller or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, San Mateo is a great place to spend some time outside. These are some of the area's most stunning sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Carara National Park (12.3 mi / 19.8 km)
  • Playa Boca de Barranca (14.4 mi / 23.2 km)
  • Puntarenas Beach (14.8 mi / 23.8 km)
  • Playa Agujas (17.4 mi / 28 km)
  • Las Cataratas de Los Chorros (18.5 mi / 29.7 km)
  • Catarata Manantial de Agua Viva (12.6 mi / 20.3 km)

Travelling to and around San Mateo

The nearest airport is in San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), located 22.3 mi (35.9 km) from the city centre. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.), which is 26.5 mi (42.6 km) away.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in San Mateo when booking a holiday rental?
When considering a holiday rental in San Mateo, Alajuela Province, a popular area to stay in is the charming neighbourhood of San Mateo Centro. This area is particularly appealing due to its central location, which provides easy access to local amenities, restaurants, and shops, all while maintaining a quaint, village-like atmosphere.

Staying in San Mateo Centro places you within reach of the beautiful Parque Central, a lovely space to relax and enjoy the local culture. Additionally, the nearby Los Chorros Waterfall is a must-visit, offering a stunning natural setting for hiking and photography. The area has a variety of holiday rental properties, suiting different preferences and budgets, ensuring visitors can find the superb accommodation to suit their needs.

Another delightful option is the surrounding rural areas, such as La Tigra, known for its lush landscapes and serene environment. This neighbourhood allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica while being just a short drive away from San Mateo's attractions. Here, you can enjoy activities like birdwatching and exploring local coffee plantations, making it an enriching stay. The variety of properties available in these rural settings also adds to the appeal, offering everything from quaint cottages to spacious villas.
How much does it cost to rent a holiday home in San Mateo?
Prices for holiday rentals in San Mateo vary based on factors like travel dates, length of stay, accommodation type, and location. Simply enter your trip details to explore a wide range of options—whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group. Vrbo offers something for every taste and budget, from affordable rentals in San Mateo to more spacious homes. To get the best value, book early and take advantage of Vrbo's free rewards program.
Are there any discounts for San Mateo holiday house rentals?
You can find great discounts on house rentals in San Mateo on Vrbo, including special rates on new listings and savings for weekly or monthly stays with top amenities such as a pool or parking. There are several discounts for Last minute bookings, and Early bird bookings too. The best part is, there's no need for a discount code—just enter your travel dates and apply the discount filters to view the top rates.
Where are the best areas for renting a beach house in San Mateo?
For renting a beach house in San Mateo, Alajuela Province, travellers should consider the nearby coastal areas along the Pacific coast, particularly the towns of Jaco and Manuel Antonio, which are approximately a one to two-hour drive away. Jaco is known for its vibrant beach scene and offers a variety of holiday rentals, including beachfront villas and apartments that often feature amenities such as private pools, outdoor terraces, and fully equipped kitchens. This area is ideal for those looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere, with numerous restaurants, shops, and nightlife options within walking distance.

Manuel Antonio, further south, provides a more tranquil setting with stunning national park access. Beach houses in this area often come with breathtaking ocean views, spacious living areas, and amenities like infinity pools, hot tubs, and outdoor dining spaces. Many properties are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, adding to the serene environment, and some even provide easy access to hiking trails that lead directly into the park, where visitors can explore diverse wildlife and pristine beaches.
What is the most popular type of holiday rental accomodation in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, holiday houses are the most popular type of rental accommodation, with several available throughout the area. These properties typically provide a homely atmosphere, featuring multiple bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious living areas, making them suitable for families or groups. Many also include outdoor spaces such as gardens or patios, allowing guests to enjoy the pleasant Costa Rican climate. Villas and cabins are also common, offering unique stays with additional amenities like private pools or scenic views.
Are there any family house rentals in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Alajuela Province, there are several family-friendly house rentals available, making it a great choice for those travelling with children. The area is known for its lush landscapes and proximity to various attractions. Many of these homes come with spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens for preparing family meals, and outdoor spaces for kids to enjoy.
Can I rent a holiday home with a pool or hot tub in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Alajuela Province, there are several holiday homes available for rent that feature pools and hot tubs, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking relaxation in a picturesque setting. This region is known for its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, superb for unwinding after a day of exploring the local area.

Many of the holiday rentals in this region come with amenities such as private pools, hot tubs, and spacious outdoor areas for enjoying the warm Costa Rican weather. Inside, you can expect fully equipped kitchens and comfortable living spaces, ideal for families or groups wishing to self-cater during their stay.
Can I find long-stay holiday rentals in San Mateo?
A long-stay holiday rental in San Mateo is the best way to experience local living. Plus, you can make the most of long-stay discounts. Long-stay discounts are applied automatically when you enter your travel dates into the search tool, or you can use the "Weekly stay" and "Monthly stay" filters in your search.
Are there pet-friendly house rentals in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Alajuela Province, there are several pet-friendly house rentals available, providing a welcoming environment for travellers with pets. Many of these holiday homes come equipped with amenities such as spacious gardens, outdoor seating areas, and fully equipped kitchens, ideal for families or groups looking to enjoy a comfortable stay.
Are there any remote work holiday rentals in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Alajuela Province, there are several holiday rentals suited for remote work. Many of these properties come equipped with essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, desks, and designated laptop workspaces, ensuring that guests can work comfortably during their stay. The peaceful surroundings of San Mateo, with its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere, provide an ideal backdrop for productivity. To help narrow your search, insert your dates and apply the "WiFi" filter on Vrbo.
Are there any San Mateo holiday rentals with parking?
Vrbo offers a wide selection of holiday rentals in San Mateo with parking available—perfect for families or travellers who value the convenience of having a car during their stay. To easily find these properties, simply enter your travel details on Vrbo and use the "Parking available" filter under the amenities section. This makes it quick and easy to browse listings that suit your needs, whether you're planning a short city break or a longer stay.
What are popular rental amenities in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, popular holiday rental amenities include well-equipped kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals with ease. Many properties also feature inviting pools, superb for relaxation on warm afternoons. Outdoor spaces such as patios are common, providing a lovely setting for al fresco dining or enjoying the surrounding scenery. Additionally, rentals typically include essential items like refrigerators and cookware, dishware, and utensils, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for visitors.
How early should I book a San Mateo holiday rental?
Book your San Mateo holiday rental at least two months before you travel for the best selection of properties.* Plus, you'll typically find that the earlier you book your holiday rental, the better the price.

*Based on analysis of Vrbo booking and occupancy data for 2024 stays.
What are the top attractions in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions that showcase the natural beauty and culture of the region. The town itself is known for its charming atmosphere and is surrounded by lush coffee plantations, offering opportunities for tours and tastings. The nearby Poás Volcano National Park is a must-visit, where travellers can witness the impressive crater and enjoy scenic walking trails through the cloud forest.
Can I change or cancel my San Mateo home rental booking on Vrbo?
To find San Mateo holiday rentals with free cancellation, just use Vrbo's handy "Free cancellation" search filter. We get that plans can change, so it's easy to filter properties that give you flexibility. If you need to make changes to an existing booking, drop your host a message. Go to "My Trips" in your account, click "Change or Cancel" and then "Message Host". Vrbo makes it easy to book with confidence.
Why should I join Vrbo as a host?
Joining Vrbo as a host opens the door to a global community of travellers seeking unique stays, giving you the opportunity to earn income from your property on your terms. With user-friendly tools, dedicated support, and exposure on major travel sites, Vrbo makes it easy to list, manage, and succeed. Whether it's a cosy flat or a countryside retreat, you can turn your space into a standout destination—become a host and let Vrbo handle the heavy lifting to help you thrive.
Are all fees included in the San Mateo holiday rental prices shown on Vrbo?
Vrbo provides upfront pricing from the moment you start your search. There are no hidden fees added during the check-out process. This allows you to compare properties with ease and plan your trip with confidence.