Discover a selection of 3,000 vacation rentals in San Mateo, CA that are perfect for your trip. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including swimming pools and private pools. Prices start at $79 per night, and houses and condos are popular options for a stay in San Mateo. Either way, you'll find a rental for everyone's needs.
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Top rated rentals — San Mateo
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Destination guide

San Mateo and the heart of Silicon Valley

Nestled deep between the hi-tech industries and computer firms of Silicon Valley, San Mateo offers a dash of classic California culture and living. Its downtown area is packed with charming bookshops, and is still buzzing from the days when it was a major arrival point for Japanese immigrants across the Pacific – think plenty of sake, sushi, and sashimi. San Mateo vacation rentals are also coveted for their sweeping views over the San Francisco Bay Area, and that wonderful backdrop: The Rancho Corral de Tierra, with its wildflower meadows, chaparral, and sinewy mountain ridges.

Things to do

Japanese gardens and kitchens galore in San Mateo

It's between the fir trees of Central Park that San Mateo's iconic Japanese Tea Garden makes its home, offering respite from the bustle of the surrounding San Francisco sprawl. Once you're done meditating, consider getting back into the material world with some fashion searching in the Hillsdale Shopping Center, or just head to the downtown area to taste a medley of Mongolian hotpots and Japanese mains. There are also acclaimed golf courses at Poplar Creek, and oodles of hiking in the rugged Rancho Corral de Tierra.

Activities

Find your inner zen in San Mateo

Chilled and laid-back San Mateo is a welcome break from the buzzing business energy of greater Silicon Valley. With its smiling locals and breezy streets, it's the perfect place to come and unwind after sightseeing your way through the rest of the Bay Area. You can kick back in the cherry blossom-blanketed parks, pull yoga poses in Oriental fountain gardens, and be able to hit 18 holes overlooking the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Shopping and sampling sushi in the Japanese cookhouses is also right on the doorstep of most San Mateo vacation rentals.

Weather

Summer’s sizzling in San Mateo

Transport yourself to the breezy peninsulas of the Bay Area during the summertime to enjoy the warm and pleasant months between June and August. This is high time to hit the bustling breweries and coffee shops of downtown San Mateo, and there's not a better season to wax up the walking boots and explore the winding trials of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. What's more, San Mateo vacation rentals with gardens and decks are often well-primed for the al fresco dining and living that the warmer times bring.

Natural features

Clutching the San Francisco Bay Area in San Mateo

Cast your gaze to the west of San Mateo and you'll see where the rugged rises of the Rancho Corral de Tierra host old farmsteads and slopes of manzanita blooms. Hiking trails there lead to the top of Sweeny Ridge, marking the point where Spanish explorers first set foot on the San Francisco Bay Area back in the 1700s. Walking routes like the San Andreas Trail shoot straight up the spine of the peninsula to the big city, too, while on the coast, there are boating spots at Coyote Point and the rolling salt ponds of the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge – perfect for bird watchers.

How to get there

Traveling to and around San Mateo

Fly into San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO), the closest airport, located 5 mi (8.1 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Oakland Intl. Airport (OAK), which is 12 mi (19.3 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, San Mateo Station, Hayward Park Station and Hillsdale Station are the main stations in the area.

What are the top vacation rentals in or near San Mateo?

Whether you're in search of a cozy retreat for you and your honey or someplace spacious to fit all your friends, you'll find some top vacation rentals in and around San Mateo. Here are a couple to get your inspiration flowing:

  • "Golden Gate Park And Museums 1 Block Away" is a hit with guests. Around 18 miles from San Mateo, it has 2 bedrooms and plenty of useful amenities, including a separate dining area and a nearby coin laundry.
  • "Luxurious Top - Rated Nopa Home + Garage + Free Cleaning" is another top pick, offering 1 bedroom, nearby whale-watching activities, internet services and more. It's around 17 miles from San Mateo.

For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect San Mateo vacation rental for you.

What are the top-rated vacation rentals for weekend getaways in or near San Mateo?

There's nothing like squeezing in a quick trip to reenergize your batteries. Pack your carry-on bag and enjoy a breather at one of these appealing weekend getaways in and around San Mateo:

  • "Waterfront Marina - One Of Kind Garden Unit" is a comfortable option around 19 miles north of the center of San Mateo. You'll never have to go far to find something cool to do around this property. Get out and visit Cowell Ranch State Beach and Pelican Point Beach. Activities like hiking and biking and windsurfing will add the finishing touch to your weekend away.
  • Alternatively, enjoy a slower pace of life at "West Portal Studio, Ocean View And Convenient". About 16 miles northwest of San Mateo, activities around here include hiking and biking and cycling. Rather visit some of the sights? Plan an outing to Crab Cove Visitor Center and Habitot Children's Museum.

Can I find studio apartments for rent in and around San Mateo?

Studio apartments are hard to beat when it comes to convenience, location and affordability. Escape to one of these studio apartments for rent in or near San Mateo and discover the buzzing local vibe:

  • Wake up, go exploring and then do it all over again at "Luxurious Top - Rated Nopa Home + Garage + Free Cleaning". This vacation rental is an excellent base for sightseeing and features amenities including coffee and tea making facilities and a kitchen.
  • Alternatively, switch to vacation mode at "West Portal Studio, Ocean View And Convenient", which comes with conveniences such as towels and a kitchenette.

With the moolah you save on your studio apartment, you can afford to explore more of San Mateo. Cultural attractions like 49 Geary and Alcove Theater will help you better understand the personality of this destination.

Can I find short term rentals in or near San Mateo?

Short-term rentals aren't hard to find in and around San Mateo. Chill out for a night or two in a luxury cabin, a budget studio apartment or a spacious home. Whatever type of rental you prefer, you'll find the perfect place with Vrbo. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • If you'd love to be near the action, "Beautiful Renovated Flat Near Golden Gate Park" is calling your name. It's within easy reach of the center of San Mateo and a superb base to check out sights like Pier 39 and Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Hop out of bed, make a coffee and then begin planning what to see around "Luxury Oasis With Hot Tub And Gorgeous Garden". Alcatraz Island and Lombard Street should be on your radar if you stay at this top-rated rental.

What are the best romantic weekend getaways in or near San Mateo?

Whether spent in a cottage, a cabin or a condo, a romantic weekend getaway is one of the best ways to add some zing to your relationship. Whisk your special someone off for a couple of leisurely days at one of these popular escapes in or near San Mateo:

  • Around 18 miles from San Mateo, "Golden Gate Park And Museums 1 Block Away" is a perfect place for adoring couples. Winery tours and a fireplace are some of the amenities you'll find here.
  • Another option where you can spend a few dreamy days together is "Luxurious Top - Rated Nopa Home + Garage + Free Cleaning". Around 17 miles from San Mateo, beauty services and a nearby bay add to the atmosphere here.

What are the best large group vacation rentals in or near San Mateo?

Share your trip and double the fun. Whether you're planning an active getaway with your besties or an overdue family reunion, there's no shortage of large group vacation rentals in and near San Mateo:

  • Offering privacy, comfort and space, you'll get everyone's nod of approval at "Comfortable Vacation Home Near". Up to 12 people can be accommodated at this property which has 5 bedrooms, a kitchen and nearby museums. This top pick is around 7 miles to the northwest of San Mateo.
  • Invite as many as 20 of your friends to "8 Bedroom 8 Bath, Great For Groups/retreats" and fill its spaces with love and laughter. This popular option has 8 bedrooms and is around 1 mile to the west of central San Mateo. It's crammed with features to keep a large group happy and comfortable, including a kitchen and an electric car charging station.

What are the best houses for rent with a pool in or near San Mateo?

Nothing says fun times like a pool. Dig out your inflatable unicorn and check out these houses in or near San Mateo that come with this vacation essential:

  • Treat the gang to a memorable break at "3 Bed 1. 5 Bath House In The Belmont Hills". There's a lot to love about this retreat besides its pool, such as a toaster and a dishwasher.
  • "Marbella Lane - 3bedroom Belmont Cozy House" is the type of place you go to get away from everything and enjoy your surroundings, starting with its inviting pool. A garden and a fridge are also on hand to make your visit as comfy as possible.

San Mateo has a mediterranean climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging between 55 ºF and 70 ºF. But you don't have to wait until summer to visit! Check out the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the perfect San Mateo vacation rental and organize your getaway for whatever season you like.

What are the best large family vacation rentals in or near San Mateo?

Every get-together with the family should be a memorable one. Whether you're planning a getaway with the kids or that long-overdue family reunion, these large family vacation rentals in or near San Mateo offer a comfy home away from home with ample space for everyone:

  • Sleeping as many as 8 guests in 4 bedrooms, "Short Term Or Long Term Furnished Or Unfurnished Available Now" is the perfect place to hang out with the family. This top-rated escape is 19 miles to the northwest of San Mateo and has creature comforts that include books and a TV.
  • "Comfortable Vacation Home Near" is another good option. It's about 7 miles to the northwest of San Mateo, has 5 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 12 people. Useful amenities here include coffee and tea making facilities and a toaster.

When you want to explore your surroundings, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the area to keep everyone happy. Pier 39, Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street should be at the top of your list.

Can I find two-bedroom vacation rentals in or near San Mateo?

At Vrbo, we've got rental places in or near San Mateo to suit every budget and style. Here are some popular two-bedroom options to get you started:

  • Providing amenities like a garden and a kitchen, "New Remodel In A Fantastic Neighborhood" has all you need for a pleasant stay. Settle in and then get out and explore the area.
  • "Attractive Oasis, Conveniently Located" is another terrific two-bedroom option in the San Mateo area. It comes loaded with amenities like a kitchen and a nearby bay.

What are the best three-bedroom vacation rentals in or near San Mateo?

You could easily fit a small crowd into the three-bedroom wonders available on Vrbo. If you're traveling with your family, have a look at these options in or near San Mateo:

  • Offering the trifecta of privacy, space and comfort, you'll get the whole gang's stamp of approval at "Fantastic Waterfront 3/2 Home". This stay comes with many useful amenities, including a garden and a firepit.
  • Another enticing three-bedroom rental is "Stunning Spanish Home In Baywood". Take advantage of a kitchen and a fireplace while spending valuable time with those you hold dear.

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