12 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In San Mateo, California - Updated 2024

Meika
Meika 
Updated
| 4 min read

With lofty mountains, gorgeous beaches and lavish neighbourhoods, California is the ultimate dream hideout for many a traveller. San Mateo, which has been home to the Ramaytush Ohlone people long before it became a city, is a worthy destination for your California bucket list. It has grown to become a large, well-developed city with many shops and restaurants for those looking to browse and dine. San Mateo is also a culturally mixed community offering many Indian restaurants, Japanese tea gardens and Mediterranean cafes. Historic buildings also line the city, many from the late 19th century, which would make intriguing visits for those who want to learn a bit more about the place. For a comfortable vacation in the city, check out the best Airbnb vacation rentals in San Mateo, California.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on February 06, 2024.

1. Urban apartment in Downtown (from USD 104)

Enjoy a peaceful retreat at this centrally located apartment in downtown San Mateo. Its prime location places you close to San Francisco International Airport as well as San Jose, making it incredibly convenient for travellers. If you’re in the mood for some coastal charm, Half Moon Bay is just 30 minutes away.

Nestled on the second floor, this apartment offers a private stay with a separate entrance. The kitchenette is equipped with essential appliances such as a fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. Step outside on the shared deck and patio area, perfect for enjoying the fresh air. Inside the apartment, you’ll find a TV equipped with streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon and Wi-Fi to keep you connected.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
4.71 km (3.0 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
180 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
so nice to be back so thoughtful air conditioner thank you
the bed and space was really comfortable
i would definitely try to book this room again in the future
we had a great stay and really enjoyed the room
nicely and well set up room
Cleanliness:
great stay everything clean and just as advertised
the room was very clean and spacious
nice clean place in san mateo
great spot the apartment was clean private and comfortable
comfortable cozy and clean room
Host:
eric the owner is great and very helpful
eric is a great host and very responsive
nice place with a very accommodating host
erich is kind and a good communicator
apartment was comfortable and eric was very accommodating for any extra requests
Location:
the location is great and you can walk to all the surrounding restaurants
neighborhood is pretty quiet
delightful spot that's walking distance to downtown san mateo
a good place to stay very convenient location
eric’s place is in a great location in san mateo
Read more reviews

2. Cosy unit with private entrance

If you’re wondering where to stay in San Mateo which is close to diverse restaurants and is centrally located, then this cosy guesthouse is perfect for you. The surrounding area offers a myriad of culinary delights, showcasing a variety of cuisines such as Chinese, Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, and more.

Despite its convenient location, the guesthouse is tucked away from the main road, ensuring a peaceful and quiet stay. The abode features a comfortable living room and kitchen combination, a separate bedroom, and a private bathroom. The entire unit is equipped with Wi-Fi so you can stay connected.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
3.95 km (2.5 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
110 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
excellent furnishings comfortable bed
wonderful comfortable guest house with all the comforts of home
excellent amenities for long stays - laundry and fully equipped kitchen
comfortable quiet filled with all kinds of great amenities easy parking and great location
and the bed is amazingly comfortable for a queen
Cleanliness:
a very pleasant and clean cottage
very clean and felt like home
it is very very clean
the space is very well maintained - clean and cozy
the guest house was very clean and very functional for a 4 week stay
Host:
not to mention the amazing hospitality from the hosts
he is an excellent host
great space and even better hosts
great hosts a lot of little touches
the host michael sure thought of everything you need
Location:
the location was great
great location quiet residential street close to san mateo downtown
the location was super convenient
located in beautiful quiet neighborhood close to everything in san mateo
the location is great caltrain station food market and some great restaurants are all in the walk distance
Read more reviews

3. Contemporary stay with a private garden (from USD 150)

This house rental in San Mateo is great for couples and those seeking to explore the San Mateo area. Equipped with one bedroom and bath, a smart TV with Netflix and Amazon Prime, a refrigerator and mini-kitchen, this space will make you feel just at home. Privacy is another highlight of this guesthouse, as it has no shared areas and comes with fencing to separate the space from neighbours. Free tea is always available and a work-studio is accessible when you need to catch up on some projects. Not too far away are parks, restaurants and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
1.69 km (1.1 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
258 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the mattress was comfortable and the heater in the bedroom works well
some notable items : fast internet good tv with paid prime and netflixs coffee and tea quiet place
the bed is super comfortable and the bedroom has a nice electric fireplace
the space is more garage like than expected but it was very comfortable
it’s like a one bedroom apartment
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
súper clean and quiet place
very clean and very comfortable
clean place with easy checkin
the space is very clean and well equipped
Host:
kenny was a great host
kenny was super responsive
kenny is a very nice host
kenny is a super host for sure
kenny was kind and easy to communicate with
Location:
the location is great
great location in san mateo
great location in san mateo
great location close to the freeway stores and the mall
this is a cute efficient space in a great location
Read more reviews

4. Charming home surrounded by Redwoods (from USD 110)

Located in the quiet residential area of San Mateo, this lovely vacation rental in San Mateo is the perfect choice. It is part of a cul-de-sac property made for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, TV with Comcast, a cosy queen-sized bed, and a kitchenette to prepare snacks and small meals. Space for storing clothing and ironing essentials are accessible and self-check-in makes it easy to come in as you like.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
3.8 km (2.4 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
457 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 2 Beds 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
lots of amenities and very comfortable
the place is as fan describes
fan was easy to communicate with
we highly recommend fan’s guesthouse
fan was very communitive and we had a great stay
Cleanliness:
excellent and very clean room
very clean and quiet place
clean and easy to access
comfortable bed clean and private
the guesthouse was very clean and decorated beautifully
Host:
host apologized and i explained we were there on vacation
fantastic place and super great host
fan was a great host her place was very nice and we were quite comfortable
pretty much as described fan and jason were great hosts and fast to respond to requests
fan and jason were wonderful hosts
Location:
location is great near everything and safe neighborhood
safe neighborhood and the mall was within walking distance
the location is ideal for getting to and from the city
cute place in a great location everything was easy and smooth
the location is quiet and residential with easy access to the hillsdale caltrain station
Read more reviews

5. Delightful studio cottage in a quiet suburb (from USD 119)

This quaint cottage-style flat is located in a quiet area not far from downtown San Mateo. Enjoy a peaceful stay in a private space which includes a bathroom, private bedroom with a queen-sized bed, and a living room area. A kitchenette features a fridge, a microwave, a coffee maker and a convection oven that will allow guests to warm food, bake and have refreshments during their stay. A short drive from the flat will lead you to the San Francisco area.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
4.19 km (2.6 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
409 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there's a big comfy couch in the space plus a huge tv
easy check in and out and good wifi
there is a wall heater which we definitely needed in december
additionally on cold nights the heater will keep you nice and cozy
the casita has all sorts of amenities to make your stay pleasant and comfortable
Cleanliness:
very clean and quiet
very clean and quiet
very clean and private space
very clean and safe
great place clean and convenient
Host:
hosts were very helpful and prompt to our requests
excellent host and highly recommend
carla is a great host
great hosts great spot you can’t go wrong staying here
check-in was a breeze and she was super responsive and accommodating
Location:
the location is excellent
loved the location
great place in close walking distance to everything
great space walking distance to downtown
great place in a great location
Read more reviews

6. Comfy stay with modern features

This guesthouse comes with live-in ready amenities for couples, small families, or travellers traversing San Mateo alone. It comes with two bedrooms, two baths, a kitchen, living and dining areas and even a spare room for added space. Parking is made available and the house allows for self-check-in. Free refreshments and tea are provided to guests to make them feel even more at home.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
3.81 km (2.4 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
136 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 1 Guest 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 1

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
amazing place superb amenities modern and comfortable interior
great amenities including a space heater in the room to keep you warm during the cold nights
the room and other amenities are all well prepared for traveller's stay
some issues with the wifi here and there but no place is perfect
it was perfect place clean room and nice bed with all amenities you need also free wifi
Cleanliness:
clean and newly remodeled
extremely clean and quiet
sparkling clean and very quiet
super clean room and common area
nice and clean place to stay
Host:
tony was such a thoughtful host and was always quick with his responses
thoughtful host everything provided to make your stay exceptional
he was accommodating and very helpful
tony is a very responsive host
other hosts should implement his super easy and secure checkin/checkout process
Location:
such a great value and location
location is fantastic and is just off the 101 but still tucked in a quaint neighbourhood
also slippers it was an easy walk to restaurants and stores
super clean stylish decor easy check in secure safe great location great shower
tony's place is the best value you can get in the bay area
Read more reviews

7. Cherry guest house with cozy features

Guests can check-in at this convenient home at any time before 10pm to rest, rejuvenate and utilize the amenities supplied. The bedroom, bathroom, living area, and kitchen are all open to guests, though they may have to share some areas with other guests. Comcast Wi-fi is accessible for guests to watch shows, movies or the news and they can rest assured that the neighbourhood is quiet and safe. Just a drive away are the Sugarloaf mountain trails and Hillsdale Shopping Center.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
4.79 km (3.0 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
86 reviews  
Private room in house 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the place is a very comfortable stay with great amenities
bathroom is a bit dated but shower sink and toilet are still good
the bed is very comfortable and full orthopedic
emily shares some great fruits with you room is bright in the morning and very quiet at night
the bedroom was very big with the most comfortable bed that i’ve slept on in an airbnb
Cleanliness:
clean and quite as advertised
quiet and clean place
super clean friendly and quiet at night
everything is very clean
very clean well lit and simple
Host:
emily is a very nice host
emily is a superb host
emily and jerry are lovely hosts
emily was an excellent host
really nice place; hosts are nice
Location:
great location for my purposes
i loved the location and it was very convenient to many things i needed
the bed is comfortable and the location is great
great location close to shopping center and food market and 101 highway is just a minute drive
nice place to stay close to sfo and san francisco
Read more reviews

8. Modern duplex with a garden

As you walk into this contemporary-style space, you will be mesmerized by its architectural details, including the professionally landscaped garden and amenities. Inside, guests will find a kitchen that comes with a stove, fridge food processor and microwave. Broadband internet and Wi-Fi are provided and will allow you to easily catch up on work and the latest news. This duplex is perfect for those who enjoy both indoor and outdoor living as the garden area includes a citrus tree, beautiful blooms, and a cosy patio area. If you’re in San Mateo for a vacation, nearby stops include restaurants and shops.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
6.18 km (3.9 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
49 reviews  
Entire apartment 1 Bed 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the living room has a comfy sofa and big tv which was great for relaxing
Cleanliness:
a warm exceptionally clean and well equipped space
and burlingame is so clean and modern too
very clean and comfortable with everything you need
however this was a super clean white spotless linens very organized space
i loved this apartment - both the sparking clean interior and the garden
Host:
host was friendly and accommodating
Location:
super cute space in a really convenient location to downtown burlingame and san mateo
very comfy place and great location
great place to stay very conveniently located between two downtown areas
the location is nice and a comfortable place to stay
amazing location quiet neighborhood and a cozy & comfortable house
Read more reviews

9. Compact bungalow with private entrance

Though small, this private bungalow brims with modern amenities. With Wi-Fi, U-verse, HD TV, and an electric fireplace heater, there is much to keep your senses attuned. All these can be enjoyed on the flat-screen TV provided. Guests will also find a mini-fridge with complimentary snacks and refreshments awaiting them. You can also relax outside on the lounge chairs at night or have a family barbecue in the daytime while enjoying some cool lemonade. There are several places nearby to enjoy such as the marina and a wildlife centre.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
4.8 km (3.0 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
238 reviews  
Entire guesthouse 0 Beds 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a nice comfortable place with all the amenities you ever need
it has a fan to cool off in the evenings and a heater to cut the morning chill
i've never stayed in a more comfortable cozy air bnb space
loved having a private place with fridge toilet shower microwave iron tv etc
the room is stocked with drinks and snacks and conveniences like toiletries and blow dryer
Cleanliness:
very clean and private
clean and quite highly recommended
clean quiet & comfortable & reasonably priced
the bungalow is great and very clean and neat
very nice and clean place with a lot of snacks
Host:
mary was the most wonderful host
mary is a great host
mary is a great host
mary was a really great host
the hosts are wonderful and knowledgeable about the area
Location:
great location with easy parking
good location and comfortable inside
quite safe location with easy access to 101 freeway
convenient location close to the airport and clear directions
a great location and lots of privacy
Read more reviews

10. Palatial house with an amazing host

With a nicely furnished space and spacious living areas, this guest house gives you a fair bargain. The flat is arranged in a clean, orderly fashion and provides fantastic views of the bay. Breakfast is served in the morning free of charge and guests are treated like royalty. Ideal for one guest, it comes with one bedroom, a shared living room, kitchen and two shared bathrooms. Wi-Fi is available for guests and free parking is provided on the premises. The host is also said to be very attentive and caring to guests, which makes the experience even more worthwhile.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
4.65 km (2.9 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
250 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in residential home 1 Bed 1 Guest 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 1

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the view from the kitchen and balcony are amazing
what a lovely stay at kate's spacious home amazing bathroom/shower and the views were incredible
it’s a great place too huge spacious room with its own bathroom on a beautiful property
kate is very sweet she prepares dessert and breakfast for us
Cleanliness:
super clean and fancy bathroom
clean sheets clean towels clean house
place is clean and comfortable
she keeps a sparkling clean and tastefully kept home
her place was clean and beautiful
Host:
lovely home and host
kate was a wonderful host
kate is a delightful host
kate is a wonderful host
nice place even nicer host
Location:
great location in the san mateo area and close to sfo
in great location 15 minutes to sfo airport close to shops and restaurants
it is in a lovely residential neighborhood not a far walk to shops and restaurants
will definitely come back if i'm needing a place in the area
the location was excellent the neighborhood was safe and nice and free street parking was an added bonus
Read more reviews

11. Cozy room in downtown San Mateo

Small, yet comfortable, this ranch-style room for two is located in the metropolis of San Mateo where you find the top restaurants and shopping areas. Suitable for couples, business persons and those looking for leisurely activities around San Mateo, this vacation rental has just the right amenities when you need to be on the go. A full-sized bed, a fridge with complementary knick-knacks, entertainment such as Youtube TV, Apple TV and cable ensure that you can have some downtime when you’re not exploring the city. Wi-Fi is also available and the kitchen and bathroom are shared.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
5.18 km (3.3 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
239 reviews   Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i also enjoyed the tv and wifi
room was spotless and kitchen amenities provided were perfect
nice place great room right next to train tracks and shared bathroom
loved having the fridge with water in my room - and coffee in the morning
room was clean with comfortable bed and tv with amazon fire tv
Cleanliness:
very clean as well
spotlessly clean nicely decorated room
the place was clean and comfortable
very clean and bed was very comfortable
everything was very clean and comfortable
Host:
the host is good
people are great and hospitable
i highly recommend their place and them as hosts
could not of asked for better hosts thank you so much
which is also provided by the host a very sweet and considerate gesture
Location:
great place close to caltrain station
great location 2 minutes from san mateo train station
location was super convenient being near san mateo and the airport
the location is perfect being super close to downtown san mateo
central park is a ~15min walk away and is wonderful place to walk in some greenery
Read more reviews

12. Lovely flat for two in the Bay area

Ideal for couples and business travellers, this cosy guest house is situated in the downtown district of San Mateo. It comes fitted with a full kitchen with a stove and refrigerator, so you can make your own meals for breakfast and dinner. A comfortable queen-sized bed, an airbed, and bath allow guests to have a great rest at night. Guests can freely use the Wi-Fi supplied by the host whether on their phone or use the laptop-friendly area for work or play.

Stayed at this property?
San Mateo, California, United States
5.01 km (3.2 mi) from Leo J. Ryan Park
346 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 4 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
fully stocked kitchen comfy sleep number bed good wifi and space to work
the bed was very comfortable and i appreciated that the place had a fridge and other useful amenities
the shower is pretty small (narrow) but we are average size adults and didn't have any problems
we had a very comfortable stay
my stay was great the room was private and had all the basics
Cleanliness:
super clean and cozy space
briana’s place smelled so clean and was very spacious
space was clean and well kept
absolutely spotless inside and great communication and check-in instructions
really nice clean and private apartment
Host:
the host is very welcoming too
responsive host and comfy space
briana was a great host
really friendly and helpful host
briana is a very nice host who is friendly and warm welcoming
Location:
great studio close to airport
good location 10 minute walk to caltrain 15 to downtown
good location - convenient to downtown and airport
good location easy to go to downtown san mateo
great urban airbnb close to redwood preserves and the airport
Read more reviews

Airbnbs in San Mateo that you'll have to check out

Whether you’re looking to vacay or you’re travelling for business, San Mateo has some great Airbnb to try. Some are your traditional homes, while others are small-scale properties suited for one. If you wish to go mobile, then you can opt for a RV rental which will provide you the added benefit of moving around.

Stayed at this property?

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb vacation rentals in San Mateo, California


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Meika transitioned from a career as a Life Skills Trainer to become a full-time travel writer. With a deep passion for reading and a penchant for discovering new cultures through travel, she often...Read more

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