The Catrina Hotel
About The Catrina Hotel
The Catrina Hotel offers free WiFi and is conveniently located 10 miles from the San Francisco International Airport. All rooms are equipped with cable TV. Warmly decorated rooms at the The Catrina Hotel boast hardwood floors, free bathroom amenities and HBO channels. Guests can enjoy a free newspaper and free outdoor parking is also provided. Downtown San Francisco is 30 minutes from the hotel. Broadway by the Bay is 6 miles away and Silicon Valley is 15 miles away.
Amenities
- 24-hour front desk
- Meeting space
- Café / coffee shop
- Express check-in / check-out
- Dry cleaning
- Self-service laundry
- Multilingual staff
- In-room refrigerator
- In-room microwave
- Pet friendly
- Public transit access
- Smoke-free property
- Air conditioning
- In-room safe
Reviews
The hotel is generally appreciated for its cleanliness, modern amenities, and convenient location, particularly its proximity to the airport. However, the lack of on-site staff and the virtual check-in process have received mixed reviews, with some guests finding it efficient and others finding it problematic. Noise from the road and neighboring rooms is a common complaint.
- Convenient location, particularly close to the airport
- Cleanliness and modern amenities
- Lack of on-site staff and issues with virtual check-in
- Noise from the road and neighboring rooms
- 3/5
Starting with the good the room was clean and the bed was comfortable. It is definitely a budget hotel so don't expect too much. The not so good, the fan in bathroom was not covered and disconnected. There was a hole in the wall above the mirror where you could see the wire behind the wall. Some of the blinds were broken and it was hard to get them closed properly to keep out the light. There is no staff on site other than the cleaning people in the morning that I saw. I checked in during normal hours and it was still a kiosk with a person on a video screen no actual person on site. The process went ok, the person was a little hard to understand and it just isn't the same as having a person onsite. Having someone there makes it easier if there are problems and it just seems safer when you know there is an attendant. So if you just need a place to stay for the night and want the cheapest possible it could be an option, I would say the 8.2 rating is high maybe more like a 7.2 for me.
- 4/5
Good location, but there is no elevator for second floor, not suitable for carrying large luggage. There are ants if leaving anything on the table.
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 3/5
I didn’t care for the guidance I received from the telapromp representatives. The hotel totally lacks any personal experience with actual employees.
- 5/5
If you are looking for a no fuss check-in and check out during your stay, this place is superb. Check in is via a kiosk, with an online Rep via video. The entire process was about 5 minutes. Room was stocked with coffee, snacks and water. Bed, super comfie. My only complaint, was the lack of counter space near the bathroom sink.
- 2.5/5
The room was clean and had an excellent mini fridge. The location is great, near good food spots and has entertainment next door. It is located within walking distance to the shopping mall and is easily accessible. There was no one at reception. Instead I had to check in at an kiosk with a remote worker and submit my information to a machine. This is a long and tedious process that created a frustrating check in and was not acceptable for the price of the hotel. The bed in the room was also extremely loud and squeaky and made it difficult to sleep on. The bed itself was very comfortable but the constant noise was quite annoying.
- 2/5
Nothing really stood out. For $420 a night, I was expecting to at least have a smooth check in, easy access to laundry, a nice room.... checking in took a long time at a kiosk, where they have a person in a different country who will check you in. She could not answer my questions about the property, the laundry room, and other concerns. She was polite, just not helpful. They have a worker living on the property, which is not at all an issue in of itself, but the fact that he restricts laundry machine use at night because he can't sleep is..... this hotel is more like a $80 motel, not a $400 hotel. I would not stay here again.
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 4/5
I had a hard time registering with the teleprompter.
- 3/5
This is not a hotel, it is a motel. It is in a convenient location, which is why we chose it. Parking was pretty easy, and check-in was quick. The locks on the doors require a code, not a key, and it could be hard to turn on the keypad, which was frustrating. The bed was the loudest, creakiest bedframe I've ever experienced - every tiny move made SO much noise. The mattress was old and had grooves worn into it. The floors were not very clean, so we wore socks most of the time to protect our feet. The hairdryer barely warmed at all. There are no staff on site most of the time, which was concerning in the event of an emergency. When we checked out, we had to connect virtually at a kiosk to someone who was clearly in a foreign country. That makes no sense to me. Just hire someone locally! I doubt I'll be staying here again, even though I'm planning to return to the area.
- 2/5
I stayed here so you wouldn’t have to. Don’t do it. It stinks and the shower sucks. Management or maintenance never came to check as promised.
- 3/5
E
- 1/5
If I don’t mind a very strong smell of bleach I guess you will survive. The bed is all springs, floor is uneven, your “staff” is a computer screen no matter what time with a person you can understand and leaves you in hold for half an hour. I didn’t stay, I got my money back.
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 0.5/5
This is a scam, it's not even a hotel. The floor is wet the room is dirty and the air quality is super bad
- 1/5
When I arrived at the hotel the front desk staff informed me that my reservation was canceled despite full prepayment, and I was left without a room. The front desk staff offered no solutions. Travelers should be aware of this poor service. I found more hospitable accommodations at the Extended Stay Hotel a few miles away.
- 5/5
Everything was perfect
- 2/5
TV did have cable, wifi was slow, there was no frnt desk person on site
- 4/5
Check-in was through virtual agent in the lobby, it was a quick and easy process. Room was outdated, some broken vinyl flooring, and some dirty/stained towels. Ceiling light was only on one side of the room, so the other side was really dark if bed-side lamp wasn't on. Outdoor space next to lobby was a nice amenity, just wish it was more regularly maintained. Overall, a good short-term stay.
- 3/5
Location is fine. Especially for a motel as this is not a hotel in my understanding. Rooms are fine but do not expect too much. Cleaned every day. It positions itself as a hotel though it is much more a motel with rooms having exit to the outside, thin walls, and constantly clogged toilet bowl. They even put a plunger in the bathroom as they know — you'll need it EVERY DAY
- 2/5
Where to start? Cost was low. You get what you pay for! Water damaged floor so I kept tripping on raised laminate. Toilet seat barely bolted on toilet. It flops from side to side when in use. Tank valve got stuck all the time. You have to take cover off and jiggle it to get water to fill tank. For some reason they installed metal sheets on all sides of bed from bottom of frame to the floor. When anywhere close to bed your feet would bang against them. TV crapped out half way through stay. Lobby has “virtual” check in. A guy on a screen that you can barely hear and who can barely hear you. Pay the extra $ and stay somewhere else.
- 3/5
Location suited us as we were visiting family nearby No towels on check-in. Had to go looking for staff in the morning. Sheets and towels not changed for our second night. Virtual check-in is a bit wierd!
- 3/5
Location suited us as we were visiting family nearby No towels on check-in. Had to go looking for staff in the morning. Sheets and towels not changed for our second night. Virtual check-in is a bit wierd!
- 2/5
The hotel looked decent in the photos, but the room was clearly not well maintained. The floors and bathroom tile were filthy, and the shower had water damage and wouldn’t drain properly. The AC was noisy, and the mini fridge hummed constantly. Even if you’re trying to save money, I wouldn’t recommend staying here.
- 5/5
I love the cleanliness and how attentive cleaning staff was. I also appreciated the effort to accommodate my needs by staff. I will be recommending again, the only downside was that our mini fridge smelled so horrible but it was a recently renovated room with great cleaning staff.
- 4/5
It was good but bed was squeeki
- 2/5
I wouldn’t recommend to stay in this hotel.
- 3/5
This location is very convenient for us when we are in San Mateo This is the 2nd time we stayed here. The first time was great. We had issues with our rooms this time. 1st room the toilet ran all the time and only had lukewarm water in the shower. Had issues with trying to get another room but finally was able to get one. The 2nd room the toilet had some kind of blockage
- 3/5
This location is very convenient for us when we are in San Mateo This is the 2nd time we stayed here. The first time was great. We had issues with our rooms this time. 1st room the toilet ran all the time and only had lukewarm water in the shower. Had issues with trying to get another room but finally was able to get one. The 2nd room the toilet had some kind of blockage
- 4/5
Close to the freeway
- 4/5
It grew on me overnight. This is a modest budget hotel. There is AI kiosk check-in which was different but navigateable. Bed was firm, bedding/linens were clean and nice. They gave us 3 fluffy pillow and only one firm one but we both prefer firm, so weird. I didn't hear excessive noise, we slept well. Shower pressure was ok and it got hot. They only provided two full bath towels so if you want to shower evening and next day with a fresh towel, you'll have to find housekeeping. There were small signs of wear on floor and bathroom could have been cleaner...someone odd left their footprint on the wall next to the towel bar so that was missed by the cleaners. It was unexpected so I immediately wiped it off, wished I would have taken a picture. It was good for a short overnight budget price stay.
- 2/5
bright stark lights outside that cannot be turned off and broek blinds that don't block that light -- poor sleep if you don't come with an eye mask.
- 5/5
shuttle to airport
- 5/5
keypad entry is awesome shuttle to airport
- 4/5
It was alright
- 4/5
It was alright
- 5/5
The staff were really accommodating to our needs and the room was clean with all the needed amenities.
- 4/5
This was the 3rd time we had stayed here. The other two times were great, but this time was lacking. Check in at 8:30pm was concerning as there was no one in the lobby only an automated kisok that seemed to be stuck on a loading screen. Called the number for "late" arrival and the phone on the desk in the empty lobby started ringing. After a halting and glitchy remote check in finally happened we went to our room and discovered no washcloths, a bathroom door that was nearly impossible to open and close, and a moldy smell from the bathroom. We paid a higher price for a worse experience at this hotel. Not sure I'll book here again in the future.
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 4/5
No breakfast, but access to oatmeal packets and coffee pods. Staff were friendly, but there is not a 24 hour desk. As a female traveler at this Motel-type property, I felt a bit concerned about not having staff available 24 hours a day. (There was always a computer terminal, so you could interact if needed). Good price for a decent room, and this was close to where we wanted to stay in San Mateo.
- 3/5
Pleasant
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 1/5
The bed was horrible super loud ,,, ,,, moved on its own as you slept ,, floors were broken
- 3/5
The design was beautiful but not necessarily helpful. For example, sink in bathroom was visually stunning, but occupied almost all the space, leaving no room for products. The sleeping space again great to look at but short of plugging locations for charging. The dog walking space, not very appealing, with astro turf. The A.I. approach was a little bit off putting because there were no instructions and A.I. check in became difficult. When human replaced checking, he was cold, indifferent, and not becoming. Parking spaces were too narrow, making loading hard. Fabulous looks, unfortunate, didn't make for a charming experience.
- 5/5
Exceptional
- 3/5
The hotel was alright, nothing fancy. The room was small, but clean. There was a nice young man working the front seat and he was very pleasant. He recommended places for dinner and other places of interest.
- 4/5
Bed frame was so loud even when just trying to sit on it, the mattress was generic and not really comfy. Our ac unit did not turn on, over all it looks like a really nice small room but definitely can tell some parts needed to be fixed. It’s a modern look but cheap feel. If you’re looking for a spot just to stay for the night then this is the place.
- 5/5
We would definitely stay again.
- 2/5
There was no cable tv to watch in my room. The only way to watch tv would have been to login to your own streaming services with your password. Didn't appear to be any front desk staff on site. You check-in virtually, and I called the front desk phone number but didn't really receive much help with the tv.
- 4/5
Catrina is a motel, but has been fairly recently renovated to a good level. The bed was comfortable and the TV was a good size. The staff were very good and every two days the room was cleaned and the water, coffee and snacks replenished. We were on the upper of the two floors and didn’t hear a significant amount of noise from adjoining rooms.
- 3.5/5
Clean, convenient location, our room was in the back of the property and was very quiet Beds were mushy
- 4/5
.
- 5/5
The Catrina Hotel is a great place to stay on El Camino Real in San Mateo for its reasonable price and the amenities in the room. There were issues, of course. Our room, 104 had insufficient lighting in the room, and only one bedside lamp and even though the bed was comfortable, it was on this frame that had metal sides and if you tapped them with you foot, the each sounded like thunder! But we got used to it and would stay there again.
- 4/5
Convenient
- 5/5
Affordable stays for those who are in San Mateo for conferences. Neighborhood is safe too
- 1/5
Check in was very difficult; no human on-site and the only virtual staff was hard to understand through their accent. The room’s floor was extremely dirty, and there were hairs. The shower door wouldn’t stay closed. Only one washcloth provided for a double queen room. Beds were good and food was convenient. Overall I can do better for this price and won’t come again.
- 4/5
Okay
- 3/5
Ok for short stay.
- 3/5
The place is clean, nearby the event we attended. Several Asian restaurants close by. The only down side is that doesn’t have a human working in front desk most of the time, so it’s very hard to deal with when you have a question, you can only ask the virtual assistant or call the number provided in Expedia after booking; which is very difficult for elderly people especially if the elderly has vision problems.
- 2/5
I was there for two days
- 5/5
I really like this place and everything is perfect for my needs except for the fact that I would love to have a microwave in my room.
- 5/5
The property had ample parking and the check in and check out process was super smooth. The staff was super friendly and helpful as well. My only issue was that the floor was a little dusty but the property had soft water which made up for that previous issue.
- 5/5
Habitación limpias
- 3/5
Room was clean, only wish they wouldn’t use the spray freshener. Shutter blades were broken, the security light shined into the bedroom. Toilet was not functioning properly. This is the third time we’ve stayed here and it’s the first time we’ve had issues.
- 3/5
The front desk was very friendly. Plenty of space for parking, which is free of charge. The room is clean, although it is cleaned every other day.
- 4/5
Property was quiet, room was clean, bedding was comfy! The room did get muggy at times and I had to keep pressing the reset button on the AC unit.
- 3/5
Stayed for two nights, tv wasn’t working the entire time, even after numerous requests for help. Ground floor has a lot of road traffic, rooms toward back were probably quieter.
- 5/5
Easy check in, convenient location, comfy beds.
- 4/5
The staff was kind enough to grant me early check in at no additional cost on a hot day. I also checked in while there was an employee at the desk instead of remote, as generally you will be getting remote help. Inside the room was clean enough, but the blanket had some writing on it (after they were replaced on the third day of my stay) and the USB charging ports did not work. Only by plugging in my charger to the standard outlet did I get any charging going. The lamps looked like they were supposed to have USB charging ports but those were removed. Location is nice, a bit far from downtown San Mateo but in an area close to stores. Transit exists but you will have to walk some distance. Overall would recommend but don’t expect much. Also the fridge is tiny with no space for anything much.
- 2/5
When I checked in , found shower has not been cleaned, a dirty towel was there, and floor had black stains. I called front desk, I guess it is AI assistant, nobody resolves issue. The bathroom floor tiles are very dirty, and wet. In the morning , I found water leakage near closet , and caused my suitcase wet. By my request of partial refund, finally received email from its GM and agreed some refund, and asked me to do refund through Expedia. Expedia contacted the hotel many times, and told me they decline refund. Quality and experience do not match review.
- 4/5
Great location with updated rooms. The property could use some updating as there are broken column lights around some of the rooms. Rooms were clean and provided for all of our needs.
- 2/5
The whole place is automated. Check in was viz a zoom type call. There wasn’t anyone at the front desk at all during my stay. The only interaction I had with actual staff was housekeeping when I asked for extra towels because I saw them in the hall. It was very strange. The room layout was tight. Had to climb over the bed to get to the closet.
- 3/5
I went to this hotel because it was the only one closer to the Convention Center of San Mateo. The room was somewhat clean but the bathroom didn’t drain properly and the overall experience was poor. Don’t have kitchen, just a vending machine.
- 4/5
X
- 1/5
I had such high hopes for this hotel it had great reviews and from the pictures it looked cute. There was no employees on the premises when we were there. We spoke to a "front desk" employee through a kiosk that was like a zoom call and there was a terrible lag to it so communication was extremely hard. Our room was missing washrags, shampoo/ conditioner and body wash. The toilet stopped working thankfully my husband was able to fix it. And the room wasn't that clean. unfortunately Very disappointed ☹️
- 4/5
I did not appreciate the "virtual front desk person" setup - always better to have an actual, living, breathing human person in front of you with whom you can speak.
- 5/5
Clean room. Basic hotel, but everything you need.
- 5/5
Loccation was great, close to AIrport (15 min). Clean, parking was easy. I really liked using texting for checking out, everything was fast, easy, & simple.
- 4/5
The toilet was running and the handle of the shower faucet was loose but everything else was great. I will go back there for future stays
- 3/5
Improvement on staff, cleaner rooms and amenities. Staff wasn’t there in the lobby when I tried checking in around 3:30pm. There was no way to get in contact with anyone. I tried calling but the phone is in the lobby and no one was there to pick it up. Mini fridge in the room wasn’t working. The counter wasn’t wiped down. You can see cup rings on it. The shower floor creaked anytime I moved in the shower.
- 5/5
Well appointed, refurbished, clean, comfortable
- 3/5
motel condition, noisy, hard to get in parking lot, power outlets are not working.
- 3/5
I'm glad this little place is in business as it is near where I was visiting. The price is low, so don't expect fancy service, daily room cleaning is not on the agenda. But if you ask for something, they try to help.
- 4/5
Parking is tight but the hotel is worth the money
- 3/5
This is a MOTEL without amenities, not a hotel
- 5/5
Clean rooms. Nice front desk staff.
- 5/5
This place was perfect for our stay. Fun time checking in with the Virtual Assistant kiosk!! Clean and quiet’
- 5/5
A great , affordable spot to stay .
- 1/5
I have been trying to get a refund, which i was charged twice. I have called and repeatedly was asked to leave my name and number and manager will be in at 12 noon to review and will contact us for a resolution. ThIS HAS NOT HAPPENED. This was our stay 1/31 thru 2/1, and still not have resolved anything. We call and call and it rings and hanga up!!! We want to call back and a refund. We have our bank statements to prove we were charged with $1 then twice the room rental.
- 5/5
Clean room and quite spacious. Only thing that I would complain about is the location of the AC unit and the wooden blinds. The AC unit was stuck behind the desk in the room so the air wasn’t really circulating enough. The wooden blinds didn’t really block out much of the sunlight in the morning.
- 5/5
Great spot overall !!!
- 3/5
Conveniently located within walking of a handful of restaurants, also a perk. Lastly, very close to the highway - also awesome. I should add that the mattress and pillows were comfortable - always important!
- 4/5
Nice renovated place in mid San Mateo. Very reasonable pricing, clean updated rooms. Parking and ingress and egress somewhat challenged.
- 5/5
Clean and comfortable
- 1/5
I actually checked in and did not even sleep there. I did shower in the room but just did not sleep there. Upon check in there was a crazy, homeless person in the lobby that really made me uncomfortable so I just used the room to shower in the day but slept at my daughter's apartment on the floor. The room was neat and clean and updated, I just got weirded out by my initial experience.
- 5/5
Everything was wonderful
- 4/5
A
- 4/5
Clean room.
- 3/5
Bed was too soft and frame moved around quite a bit. Water pressure in sink was very low. Entry door was difficult to operate as the number pad backlight didn’t illuminate. The self check in with remote concierge was convenient and easy!
- 5/5
Everything was wonderful. Staff was lovely, the room was very clean.
- 4/5
Clean room and easy check in/ check out.
- 4/5
No problems, room was clean, check in easy. Small rooms, you can hear your neighbors, ok for a couple nights
- 5/5
Room was clean and comfortable. Check in was seamless. Coded locks and code worked fine and easy to operate
- 2/5
No staff everything is through video chat- bed was very uncomfortable. Walls are super thin- you can hear everything.
- 3/5
Ok
- 2/5
Yes the room was neglected and in bad shape. We checked in after 8pm so we had to use virtual check in and nobody was available in the office when I left at 8am.
- 5/5
Except a car’s alarm kept going off about 10 times all night and early morning and we were right there in room 107. Loved everything EXCEPT that
- 5/5
The room was clean, amenities excellent, staff attentive
- 2/5
I stayed there for four nights, and my room was cleaned only once.
- 1/5
I didn’t like that I couldn’t speak to a staff member at the front desk at all. The room is cheap furniture and cheap renovations.
- 1/5
Room never cleaned or towels chanced. Room password was changed twice during 3 day stay. No staff at front desk. Literally the worst hotel I have ever stayed at.
- 4/5
Convent location
- 3/5
Staff was great and supportive. Couple of minor issues, no wash cloths, shower drain wasn’t draining well, and missing TV remote.
- 5/5
Room was spotless and really nicely designed. Staff was courteous and provided us with items we requested (more hangers and travel rack), promptly.
- 3/5
Water pressure was too weak, sheets had a blood stain and there was a dirty tissue on the floor next to the toilet when we checked in. Bathroom windows had some mold on it, the bedroom blinds would not close all the way (it was loose) and the property was cheaply remodeled, you could see it on some details like the bed quality and shower floor, which was buckling and slippery, and also one the outlets wasn’t working.
- 2/5
You had to wait in line for a kiosk for somebody to get on camera
- 5/5
Loved my stay here Sayed was very nice and accommodated me and my daughters stay. The staff was very nice made the beds and restocked fresh towels. Everything was great. We were in town but got out to San Francisco #lovedit ✨
- 5/5
clean , easy acces and large room more spacious
- 2/5
Was not impressed at all. I arrived and there was no person, I had to speak to a person over a screen. It felt very impersonal. on my window I saw mold. my bed sheets were a little dirty. worst part was my shower water was not even warm. I took a 5 min cold shower. Not what I paid for. I would ask for half of my money back but I know that wont be possible.
- 3/5
The gentleman at the desk was very nice and helpful. The room was fine, comfortable bed. Didn’t have hot water in the morning though and the floors were in rough shape as others have mentioned. Not bad for the price.
- 5/5
Room was spacious and clean. Staff was very kind and welcoming. Location was great.
- 2/5
The manager was fine, the room stunk like mold/ mildew/ old urine. I won’t stay there again. We got up early and left. I thought it was a nice hotel until I got on the room.
- 2/5
Parking is plentiful. Beds were comfortable. Bottled water and granola bars are provided in the room. The bathroom needs to be cleaned a lot better, there was hair in the shower and on the wall. The pet area is very small and not enclosed for them to run around. Central Park does have an off leash area, so that is an option. The walls are thin and there are no curtains, only movable blinds, which let in the light from outside. There is no on site staff if you have issues, which I did. Trying to call the after hours number is a joke. I had issues with not having hot water in my room, the person I spoke with, didn't understand. Even the customer rep from Expedia couldn't get through. I had to pack up my stuff, walk out in the rain to go to the lobby and try to explain to the monitor that I didn't have hot water. After 30mins, I finally got issued another room, which I had trouble finding close to midnight cuz the room numbers weren't lit up. I would probably spend an extra $20-30 to stay elsewhere next time. Too many inconveniences.
- 5/5
Easy check in, easy free parking
- 2/5
Besides the flooring coming apart, the room was clean and the bed was comfortable. Did the trick, and for the price it was worth the stay. Wouldn’t recommend to travelers with dogs tho.
- 5/5
Great location. Great service
- 3/5
Floor was peeling up. No cable tv, just stream your own services. No one at front desk to process checkout in the morning, waited for ten minutes
- 1/5
Nobody at the front desk. They have a virtual screen which was not working and had to wait 30 minutes in the lobby to check in
- 1/5
It was in a noisy street and the AC kept turning on and off. I didn’t sleep at all. The bathroom needed repair and needed to be cleaned better.
- 5/5
When I say this place met my expectations I mean IT REALLY STOOD OUT. The rooms were clean, neat and well decorated. Check in was easy. Whole property was clean and well tucked away off main street. Will stay again!
- 5/5
When I say this place met my expectations I mean IT REALLY STOOD OUT. The rooms were clean, neat and well decorated. Check in was easy. Whole property was clean and well tucked away off main street. Will stay again!
- 3/5
In all it was adequate but I’d probably look elsewhere next time.
- 3/5
Overall, this place was fine and got the job done for a one night stay, but definitely had a few issues. The remote check-in process was a little bizarre and there was a ton of lag between me and the person via video. She was also a little aggressive about filling out the guest survey after and told me to complete it in front of her when I said I would prefer getting settled in my room first. The room itself was okay, but that bathroom had a few stray hairs stuck to the wall and a hole in the ceiling where a vent or light should have been? There was also some sort of overnight construction happening nearby and there were jackhammers going off from 11:00pm until nearly 3:00am. It made sleep nearly impossible. Did appreciate the parking, though, as well as the snacks and water bottles.
- 5/5
Clean room,staff, amenities
- 3/5
It’s ok.
- 5/5
Awesome place my go to
- 3/5
- Check-in is clunky. Greeted by an empty lobby with a screen that said it could not help us check in. Eventually a friendly woman showed up. Great. But wait—we have to wait for a second person she is training, who shows up a few minutes later. They should have my email from my online reservation, yet the ask for it. After several quiet minutes of typing, the front desk person said to check my email on my phone. There, is an email with my room number and a code for the door. How is this an improvement from a standard 2 minute check-in anywhere else? - First room had a few issues with the “tech”. The TV and lamps did not work. We did get a new room where things worked - However, the second room’s bathroom floor and shower were very dirty, with long, dark hairs that were not ours. I’d like to support this independent hotel, but will not be back. Sadly, I will go back to one of the maybe chains that just has their act together.
- 1/5
The check in process was with AI gal in India! She was hard to understand. No one was onsite to speak with. Had a problem with the TV that didn’t work and they expected to charge us more money to move us to another room. We refused to pay more! Hotel was more than 3/4 empty! They finally agreed to have us move. We had to take all our stuff (we had tons as we were on the road for 3 weeks and I have a bad knee) back downstairs and back upstairs in another room in another building! We wasted almost 3 hours with arguing and finally moving! We asked to speak with someone and were told someone would be there around 11 or 12 the next day! Needless to say, we had to be on the road way before that
- 4/5
One of the bed’s frame was broken. The floor in both the room and the bathroom needs to be mopped. The water in the sink and shower started out light brown before becoming clear after a few minutes of leaving the water running.
- 5/5
Loved everything! But the floor was extremely cold
- 4/5
Room clean and good except for light: too much through window. It needs blackout curtains.
- 5/5
Thank you.
- 4/5
The room was nice and clean, the staff is accomodating I recommend this place.
- 5/5
The sink was a little high. I had to tipitoe to was my face
- 3/5
Use some deodorant or something because it smells really musty from the moment you open the door.
- 1/5
Upon arriving there was no one in the office checkin/reception area. Guests are supposed to use a screen “kiosk” which connected me with a lady in India. They had processed my payment but then experienced “technical problems” that went on and on and on … I requested a first floor room but she said their system showed there were none available… but I was actually there in person and it appeared there were several available. They continued to have “technical problems” so I asked the lady to simply refund my credit card payment and I’d find a different hotel. She said she wasn’t authorized to do that… only her manager… and the manager wasn’t available. I called Capital One while all of this was going on to flag the account transaction. Clarion did charge my account… has not refunded it… and now the whole dispute process will have to be played out. To not have a human being present at your hotel guest check in is ridiculous.
- 4/5
Small, quaint, restaurants are close
- 2/5
Left an insulated bag in the room. Never recovered it. It was gone by 7 o’clock that evening.
- 3/5
Clean. Smelled a little like cigarettes.
- 4/5
The room was spotless and service efficient. Well priced place and convenient location for visiting the San Mateo area. I suggest the property add a desk lamp to make working in that area a little easier. The staff are friendly and check in/out very easy. Would return here!
- 4/5
It was the 2nd time. It's not as comfort and quiet as hotels but, considering the price, I'm pretty satisfied with everything. It was clean and has nothing to complain.
- 1/5
The tv did not work in our room and we were told maintenance would come look at it but nobody did. Traveling with a toddler and no tv is less than ideal. Ive called management 3 times to complain but have yet to get a response regarding compensation for the lack of amenities on the room
- 3/5
OK
- 3/5
This place was refurbished. And it looks really nice in pictures but they cut a lot of corners. Bathroom had a lbit of mold along the edges that hadn’t been cleaned for a very long time. The bad frame was aluminum made a bunch of noise as you sit down. The lamps didn’t work although we appreciated the USB next to the bed. We loved that they had free laundry and coffee. But it’s next to El Camino and they didn’t have blinds that can block out the light. They put incredibly bright lightbulbs on the outside, which then shined into the room. In summary, unless you’re OK with a loud room and light coming in, I’d look for a different place.
- 5/5
Spotless room and friendly staff
- 5/5
The bathrooms could use an update but not if the price was to upgrade with it.
- 4/5
Was a no frills stay. The staff was polite and fixed a small issue I reported at 8 PM quickly. The property is clean. There was a bit of noise because of the bed and people outside the room. Simply put, the place was good for the price.
- 1/5
The virtual check-in was not working and entire system had to be on both ends due to no audio/video. Bathroom sink did not drain AT ALL. Window Shutters were broken and could not be closed making room visible from outside at night. Toilet ran all night after being flushed. No staff available.Not worth the money.
- 4/5
Big parking spaces
- 5/5
Easy and smooth check in. No key card or keys needed, a code is sent to your phone and you enter using keyless entry. The room was spacious and there is plenty of parking.
- 4/5
to a bar where we were meeting friends. You can tell it’s an old hotel that has been spiffed up. Nothing fancy. Just a decent hotel.
- 5/5
Bed is amazing
- 4/5
Check-in was with a TV, I did not see any stuff besides the cleaning crew. The noise felt like it’s an all night thing, thin walls, you can hear the ppls tvs and traffic. Not the best sleep. Although the bed was comfortable
- 3/5
No amenities Coffee no work No water pressure Iffy neighorhood
- 5/5
Safe
- 5/5
Great stay, would recommend.
- 5/5
It was strange not seeing anybody in person for check in or out, but the video gal was efficient
- 5/5
Easy check in and friendly staff
- 3/5
Overall stay was fine but need to have staff available to help guests.
- 4/5
The staff was non existent I DID NOT RECEIVE A Receipt for my stay which I need so I can expense it as it was a work trip
- 5/5
Room was comfortable, clean and modern looking. I really enjoyed my stay. Small little pet area towards the back, which was lovely. Would definitely stay again.
- 5/5
Check in was easy, our flight got in late so I’m happy we were able to check in at the kiosk virtually. The bed was comfortable and we appreciated the water and granola bars. The only issue was the bathroom floor looked like it needed a good mop. Otherwise it was just what we needed.
- 5/5
Great place for the price.
- 4/5
It was near the highway and airport
- 5/5
Clean and quiet. Fast service.
- 5/5
the place has been renovated, and looks really nice. Nice pario and super close to food, freeways and drinks. Would stay here again. Their TV amazing and coffee pods!
- 4/5
Overall good. There was a bit of noise later in the evening but called the desk and they took care of it.
- 2/5
We did not stay here. It was so loud and there
- 4/5
We didn’t drive but the parking lot was easily accessible with lots of lighting. You can walk to just about anything you’re in the mood for, so the hotel is in a great area for that. We went to the movies, ate at a handful of restaurants, went shopping, groceries, etc all on foot. The room was comfortable enough, about as expected. The bright lights outside made sleeping hard, we had to pin up extra sheets and our jackets to all the windows to try to block it out. Our door was really hard to open and close, we had to shoulder slam it open and shut every time, so I did feel bad for whoever was next to/ below us because it was not a quiet effort. Overall it was a good hotel for the price, easily the best combo of affordable/accessible in the area.
- 5/5
It is decent place to stay in bay area. Unexpected surprise.
- 3/5
I would like a person behind the desk for checking in etc, not a person on the internet is a different country. Not acceptable to me.
- 3/5
The hand towel fixture was broken. Not enough hangers to hang up your clothes. No proper lighting fixtures. Only two reading stand lamps, so the room was very dark. No access to local TV channels.
- 4/5
cute location, great parking
- 4/5
Needed more light in the room! The recommended Thai restaurant was excellent!
- 5/5
Good location
- 3/5
annoying after ten minutes I still had to take a cold shower as there was no hot water!
- 2/5
Felt more like a motel from the entrance. Walls were very thin
- 5/5
Great place to stay for the night. Clean and loved the decor!
- 5/5
The area is clean
- 5/5
Friendly and walkable
- 5/5
Clean, convenient location for work travel related lodging.
- 1/5
The virtual check in made the process more difficult than a traditional check in with an in person interaction would. The pictures of the room were very misleading with a small shower with no soap or body wash because it wasn’t refilled. The blinds on the window didn’t function properly allowing for light to peek through or some visibility if anyone wanted to look from the outside (not good privacy)
- 4/5
Good place,easy to find location, clean rooms, hot shower, the motel is nice especially for the price. And once I arrived the checkin was fast and easy...But I did try to call them 4 seperate times the day before I was to arrive - no answer. I even left 2 messages and still no one returned my call. I was trying to extend my stay but booked the extra day elsewhere.
- 5/5
👍
- 4/5
Plus it was just down the street fro the Japanese garden!
- 5/5
Liked it. Will be staying there again in October. Thank you.
- 1/5
The room is very dirty.
- 5/5
Catrina’s is a cute small and tucked away hotel in San Mateo.
- 4/5
The room isn’t very clean as I spotted some dirty spots on the bed sides
- 5/5
Hi
- 5/5
Had a pleasant stay. The staff is very helpful
- 5/5
Centrally located
- 4/5
Keyless entry was interesting. State of the technology.
- 4/5
Convenient virtual check-in/out. Only thing my shower was not draining at all! I'd be showering with feet submerged in dirty water. I asked for that to be fixed twice but nothing happened. Also, the sheets and towels were worn out and dingy looking with stains.
- 4/5
.
- 5/5
Muy tranquilo
- 3/5
Room was clean and comfortable. Check in process was easy enough. However, it is motel style rooms, the hotel isn’t in the best area, there is no staffing and cars were pulling in and out through the evening which made it a little unsettling as I was going to bed
- 5/5
Perfect budget hotel.
- 4/5
So far so good! Thank you!
- 4/5
Bed was very comfortable. Hot water tea kettle didn’t work. Keurig also didn’t work. Would have liked 2 chairs. Small donuts were good in the morning.
- 2/5
My concerns were not addressed.
- 3/5
I booked this hotel because it was convenient to where I needed to be. I’m very familiar with the area and it appeared to have great reviews. Unfortunately there is no person on site you check in virtually. There is no staff on site that speaks English when you do find someone. There is no elevator. There are no ADA provisions. We had no one service our room the first day the second day there was no hot water. We had to work virtually to get moved to another room that was downstairs and had hot water unfortunately I will never stay here again, even though it is the most convenient to where I need to be
- 4/5
Every time someone got a bed they would hit the sheet metal bed frame and the whole hotel could hear it. Not a good design for a hotel that’s supposed to be quiet.
- 4/5
OK, so it’s expectation management, but it convenient, v comfortable and spacious. No food options, but plenty nearby. Would use again and recommended
- 5/5
Very clean and modern for an older building. Having heard so many horrible things about San Fransisco over the past 10 years i was surprised that the San Mateo area was as nice as it was.
- 4/5
The stay was fine. Bed was pretty comfortable and room is fine. But, the windows have no screens. Location is very good.
- 5/5
Staff very friendly and location of the property is so convenient
- 5/5
Excellent!!
- 3/5
I stayed for 4 days and I cked in late , the next day I was away and when I returned to my room at night , the room was not made sheets were not changed , the used towels were not replaced !! Virtual receptionist said that I have to inform them that I need to service everyday and at night , nothing was there ! Un heard of ! And not a good service
- 2/5
No toilet paper and no in person workers to get more from.
- 5/5
Great place for a short stay!
- 5/5
Just stayed for 1 night, everything is fine.
- 4/5
The hotel looks like it's been recently upgraded. It's pleasant. The rooms are good size. There were a couple of problems with the furniture - one of the cabinet doors was off the hinge and the drawer guide was sticking out. The water in the shower was hot, but not in the sink. It was still a nice place. They have a great outdoor area and are located close to 92 and 101 making it a convenient location.
- 4/5
Recent modern remodel, cosy and comfortable. Good sound proofing, hardly heard others. Nice big tv hooked to streaming services, news stations for free. In room coffee maker not working, also had an electric water kettle for tea and coffee in the lobby. Had dog area in the back of the property.
- 4/5
Good value. Clean. Great staff. Old school refurb.
- 1/5
What a horrible experience! Waited almost 30 minutes for someone working remotely to appear on the screen, then made me wait an additional 10 minutes while he finished doing whatever he was doing. Granted I was checking in after hours. However, no excuse. After another 15 minutes with him fumbling through check in. I was charged twice, he was trying to charge me a third time but I refused and continued to show him the multiple charges hitting my account. After that he gives us a room on the second floor. Allow me to share, I’m disabled, no elevator and struggle with stairs. Pointed out to him I’m disabled, didn’t seem to care. Possible language barrier. Who knows! After another 20 minutes trying to get up the stairs. Ugh! I’m not even going to start with how disgusting the room was!!! I’m not trying to be a “Karen” I totally get what they’re trying to do with this boutique style motel, at best! But come on now. The worst motel possible!!!
- 4/5
Issues with a/c and virtual check not available at registration time.
- 5/5
Checking in, with someone on video is a wee bit dystopian, but it works. I recommend grabbing a bite act Heidi’s Pies nearby for some good old fashioned human interaction
- 4/5
It’s clean and modern and affordable. The location works well for me, and there’s a ghost kitchen nearby to pickup takeout, or Heidi’s Pies for some good old-fashioned comfort food with lovely human interaction. If you can deal with the virtual front desk (they’re helpful and friendly!) it’s a good place to stay. As a tea drinker, I really appreciate the electric kettle.
- 5/5
I was on there one night but it was a great night. Check in was fast and easy (which was great because I was pretty tired). The room was nice and clean. But most importantly, it was quiet. The neighborhood was good. I walked across the street to the Japanese restaurant and got a great meal to go. Plenty of towels and complimentary coffee and water in the room. The bed was great! Lots of pillows (non with the Catrina skull like in the images, which was fine 😉). Definitely staying here again.
- 3/5
What I didn't like was that my room smelled like old shower or a poorly cleaned bathroom. I suggest the cleaning process be scrutinized and adjusted to keep the servicer accountable for the rooms being not only clean but smelling fresh. Hot shower after 5-8 minute wait for the water to heat to. I almost gave up! Lastly, some of the shutter blinds on my window were broken and didn't block out the light from the common area. I suggest adding curtains so this will never be a factor.
- 4/5
The room was very utilitarian. The beds were extremely comfortable and the best thing about the property. The bathroom was small but adequate. I would recommend this for business travellers but not for family stays.
- 5/5
Clean
- 4/5
Good stay affordable price. Very clean room . Very quick check in process. You get a passcode to your room, so no need to check out. Very secure and safe!
- 5/5
It was definitely an amazing stay for sure
- 5/5
Loved! Great mattress/bed!
- 5/5
Me and my GF loved it, felt clean. Will definitely go back. It's cozy as well
- 4/5
Overall, good hotel. Wish they had EV charging. No breakfast. Rooms were average size, well appointed with nice bathroom. Would stay here again.
- 5/5
This is our go to place to stay when we come to Half moon bay
- 3/5
Ok
- 5/5
Teriffic place, nicely remodeled, quite modern. There's no room key, just a passcode you receive by email.
- 2/5
Ok
- 3/5
Didn't like
- 5/5
Very convenient quiet and comfortable. And affordable!
- 4/5
Old but a good deal in a very expensive area
- 4/5
Ok
- 4/5
Ok
- 2/5
Check in was easy. The girl at the front desk was polite and professsional. Honestly thats the only good thing about this place. When I entered the room I was immediately blasted in the face by the smell of a wet locker room. Like the inside of a pool locker room without the chlorine. 100% positive there is black mold in here. Black stuff around the shower, tile, and caulk. I wiped the corner of the shower with a tissue and thick black sludge came off. The only way this is possible is by not cleaning it for months at least. Had to leave the windows open to air it out, but the smell persisted because it was coming from the bathroom. After I took a shower on the first night the bathroom did not dry out at all. There are serious moisture issues going on and the fancy mirror lights and nice tile are not going to fix it. Im certain there will be issues in facility in the future regarding mold. The aesthetics are modern and updated but the decore is just a bandaid slapped over the deteriorating rooms. I was there for 5 nights. My room was only serviced one time. Beds are the squeaky and loud metal-framed type. Location is great which is why I stayed here. But the owner should really invest in a proper cleaning and actual remodel instead of slapping new tile and mirrors over water damage.
- 5/5
any issues are takin care of immediately
- 2/5
My door wouldn’t lock
- 5/5
It took some time to log in via video check in. Rooms where clean and bedding was great to sleep on.
- 4/5
H
- 4/5
Nice courtyard
- 5/5
Great
- 4/5
Jorge was amazing and made me feel welcomed. There is no broadcast television, you have to use your own streaming service, so that sucked. The bed needs some serious WD40 action, it squeeked loudly every time you move. The place is cute, clean and modern though.
- 1/5
I never write reviews so this one is deserved. The front desk receptionist was extremely rude and aggressive. They asked me if I wanted a room downstair or upstairs so I requested downstairs. The room was extremely dirty with stains all over the counter top and floors. The door lock was also broken. I requested another room right away and was rejected so I requested a refund and was moved to a room upstairs. The room once again stains on the sheet hair on the bed and bathroom. I requested new sheets and was told I cant do that house keeping is gone. So I spent 2 hours trying to get expedia to relocate me and the front desk receptionist finally apologized for her behavior and said its not our fault that previous customers ruin the rooms. Understandable, but me as a paying customer should not have to deal with it either. If the front desk receptionist wasn't so rude maybe I wouldnt even write a review but you need to treat your paying customers with more respect.
- 5/5
Stay was great! Wish there was a real person at check in instead of an animated zoom call. Also room does not get good ventilation, felt a bit muggy.
- 4/5
.
- 2/5
I. Have stayed at this hotel and loved it but this time my room was a little run down and the bed wasn’t comfortable it was very hard and it said online there are coffee makers in the room but not true and the tv you had to use your apps like your Netflix account..I will not be staying there never again
- 5/5
I work in San Mateo occasionally, this place is a perfect place to lay your head at the end of the day. Wonderful staff. Walkable food options.
- 5/5
Area
- 5/5
it’s been refurbished and beds are comfortable…walkable distance to restaurants, grocery store…incredible water pressure when showering…
- 5/5
Easy check in…friendly staff…comfortable beds…price is right…
- 5/5
Rooms recently updated
- 5/5
We arrived late, 9pm. I had received a door code to enter the lobby and was instructed to use the kiosk for check-in. I will admit at first I was a littl
- 5/5
Immaculate and comfortable rooms conveniently located. Catrina staff very friendly and helpful
- 4/5
Convenient location with walkable restaurants.
- 1/5
staff barged in on us twice . Would knock and quickly type in code and try to open our room door ! Just unprofessional and dirty . I would like my money back
- 2/5
I've stayed in this facility several times and this time it was not what it used to be. The paint on the walls was peeling, mold in the shower, holes in the ceiling, uneven floorboards, no desk area, no soap at the sink. There was garbage on the floor next to the cans and just overall didn't seem like the place was being kept up. Really disappointed.
- 5/5
I really like how the property is virtually ran. The property was very quiet. Will definitely stay here anytime I’m in the Bay Area