San Diego To Yosemite National Park Road Trip: Hit the Road

San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA. The 399 miles of San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive takes around 6 hours and 30 mins without stops.

This article includes 15 tips that turn your San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park, take your coffee and keep reading!

5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From San Diego To Yosemite National Park

On the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top five hotels on the San Diego – Yosemite National Park route!

1. The Prospect Hollywood

If you want to stay near Los Angeles, California; The Prospect Hollywood could be a suitable option for you on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. Driving from San Diego to The Prospect Hollywood might take around 2 hours.

The Prospect Hollywood is an excellent stopover during your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This charming hotel is located in the heart of Hollywood, offering an intimate setting with elegant and quiet surroundings. I highly recommend this place for a classy adult getaway, and I would definitely stay here again. The architecture, style, and cleanliness are all top-notch, making it a truly remarkable experience. Plus, the friendly service and great location within walking distance to restaurants and bars make it even more appealing. Overall, The Prospect Hollywood is an outstanding place to take a break from your drive and recharge before hitting the road again.

Check the The Prospect Hollywood, one of the best hotels in Los Angeles, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita

If you’re looking for a hotel near Santa Clarita, California; Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita might be the perfect choice for you to stay on the road trip to Yosemite National Park from San Diego is Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is 150 miles away from San Diego, and it would take 2 hours and 26 mins to drive.

Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is an excellent place to stay during your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. Located in Santa Clarita’s Premier Arts & Entertainment District, this hotel offers visitors a unique blend of historic culture and contemporary elegance. The hotel is within walking distance of the best restaurants, live music venues, and luxurious shopping, making it an ideal place to take a break from your drive and explore the area. The simple and stylish hotel rooms provide a peaceful haven for visitors to relax and unwind. The hotel’s friendly staff and excellent service make it a top-notch option for travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay on their road trip. Whether you are looking for a brief stopover or an extended stay, Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an exceptional experience during their San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive.

If you want to learn more about the Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com.

3. Best Western Plus Hill House

Best Western Plus Hill House could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near Bakersfield, California. Best Western Plus Hill House is 232 miles away from San Diego. You can arrive there with 3 hours and 45 mins of non-stop driving.

Best Western Plus Hill House is a fantastic option for those looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay during their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This pet-friendly hotel is located close to many popular Bakersfield attractions, including Rabobank Arena, making it an ideal location for those looking to explore the area. The hotel’s comfortable and spacious rooms provide the perfect retreat after a long day of driving, and the complimentary continental breakfast and on-site restaurant options ensure that guests have everything they need for an enjoyable stay. The hotel’s friendly staff and excellent service make it an exceptional choice for travelers looking for a good place to stop on their drive. Whether you’re planning a brief stopover or an extended stay, Best Western Plus Hill House is a top-notch option for anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay during their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Best Western Plus Hill House, for more information.

4. Days Inn Yosemite Area

If you want to stay near Located off Highway 41, this hotel is a great value for families, offering safety, cleanliness, and comfortable beds. The hotel is conveniently located near shopping centers, restaurants, sports and fun activities, and medical clinics. The staff is friendly and the rooms are very clean, making it a great choice for those who value cleanliness. The free enhanced Daybreak breakfast with healthy options is a great way to start your day, followed by a workout in the well-equipped fitness center or a productive jaunt in the business center. Free high-speed WiFi, microwave, mini fridge, and a 50-inch LED TV are some of the amenities provided in the guest rooms. Parking is free, and there is plenty of space for large vehicles, including trucks and RVs.; Days Inn Yosemite Area could be a suitable option for you. Days Inn Yosemite Area is 345 miles from San Diego, and it would take 5 hours and 22 mins to drive.

Days Inn Yosemite Area in Fresno, California is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient stopover during their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This pet-friendly hotel is located off Highway 41, providing easy access to local attractions and nearby medical facilities such as St. Agnes Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente Fresno Medical Center. The hotel’s clean and comfortable rooms with amenities like free high-speed WiFi, microwave, mini-fridge, and 50-inch LED TV ensure that guests have everything they need for a pleasant stay. The free enhanced Daybreak breakfast with healthy options and the well-equipped fitness center make it easy to start your day off right, while the free parking with space for large vehicles including trucks and RVs make it an ideal option for road trippers. The friendly staff, excellent service, and convenient location make Days Inn Yosemite Area a top-notch option for anyone looking for a good place to stay on their San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive.

If you need more info about the price and availability of Days Inn Yosemite Area, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. Curry Village

Curry Village could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near Yosemite National Park, California. It will take 7 hours and 30 mins of car ride o reach Curry Village from San Diego.

Curry Village in Yosemite National Park, California is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the natural beauty of Yosemite while on their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This charming village offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can relax and unwind in the peaceful serenity of the surrounding environment. Whether you’re looking to explore the stunning natural scenery or simply soak up the beauty of one of America’s most beloved national parks, Curry Village is the ideal place to do so. With a range of accommodations to suit every budget, visitors can choose to stay in cozy cabins or comfortable tents, all while being surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Yosemite. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Curry Village is the perfect place to end your Yosemite National Park vacation and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Check the Curry Village on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Curry Village for reviews, prices, and availability.

In this part, we explained five hotels you can stay at on the road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take San Diego to Yosemite National Park route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. We have five restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

5 Best Restaurants On The San Diego To Yosemite National Park Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This section lists five restaurants to dine at on the road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. Brent’s Deli Northridge

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip with Brent’s Deli Northridge. Brent’s Deli Northridge is located in Los Angeles, California, and is 151 miles from San Diego. It would take 2 hours and 30 mins of driving.

Brent’s Deli Northridge in Los Angeles, California is a fantastic stop for foodies during their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This family-owned deli has been serving quality meals to satisfied customers since 1967. With a dedication to using premium cuts and traditional recipes, guests are treated to delicious and flavorful dishes that will satisfy any appetite. And if you’re a coffee lover, you’ll be delighted to find a great selection of coffee to go along with their delicious desserts. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Brent’s Deli Northridge offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy excellent food and friendly service. So if you’re passing through Los Angeles on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive, be sure to make a stop at Brent’s Deli Northridge for a meal that will leave you satisfied and energized for the rest of your journey.

For more information about Brent’s Deli Northridge, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Brent’s Deli Northridge.

2. Egg Plantation

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Yosemite National Park from San Diego is Egg Plantation. Located in Santa Clarita, California, Egg Plantation is 151 miles from San Diego and would take 2 hours and 28 mins of driving.

Egg Plantation in Santa Clarita, California is a must-visit spot for foodies on their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This restaurant offers a wide variety of breakfast options, including their famous 101 omelets, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients that are sure to satisfy any appetite. And if you’re a coffee lover, you’ll be pleased to know that they serve specialty espresso drinks that are expertly crafted by their skilled baristas. Additionally, their full bar offers some of the best Bloody Marys around, making it the perfect spot for brunch or a relaxing evening cocktail. On weekends, guests can enjoy live music from Marco Tulio, adding to the already vibrant and lively atmosphere. The restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance, coupled with friendly and attentive service, make it a great stop for a delicious meal during your San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive. So if you’re looking for a place to fuel up and recharge on your journey, be sure to check out Egg Plantation in Santa Clarita.

If you want to learn more about Egg Plantation, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

3. 24th Street Cafe

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is 24th Street Cafe. It will take 3 hours and 45 mins of car drive to take 233 miles from San Diego to 24th Street Cafe, Bakersfield, California.

If you’re looking for a great place to stop and refuel during your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip, 24th Street Cafe in Bakersfield, California is a fantastic option. Known for its home-cooked feel and wide variety of menu items, this restaurant is a favorite among both locals and visitors. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty dinner or a light snack, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings at 24th Street Cafe. Their menu features classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Additionally, their friendly and attentive service will make you feel right at home, making it a great spot to relax and unwind on your journey. So if you find yourself in Bakersfield during your San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive, be sure to make a stop at 24th Street Cafe for a delicious and satisfying meal that will keep you energized for the rest of your trip.

You can check 24th Street Cafe, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. Pismo’s Coastal Grill

Pismo’s Coastal Grill deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Fresno, California.

Pismo’s Coastal Grill is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers on a San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. The restaurant’s open-air atmosphere and Santa Barbara rock columns make it a unique and inviting spot in Fresno, California. Their fresh seafood menu includes delicious marinated cracked crab and fish & chips, and their creamy clam chowder is a must-try starter. The service is excellent, and the food is promptly served and perfectly cooked. The decor is fun and adds to the overall experience. Plus, the fish market right there is a great opportunity to grab some fresh fish. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also available. Reservations are highly recommended as this popular spot gets busy quickly. Pismo’s Coastal Grill is definitely worth a visit for a memorable meal on your road trip.

Pismo’s Coastal Grill is 347 miles from San Diego, and it would take 5 hours and 25 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Pismo’s Coastal Grill, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

5. The Mountain Room, Yosemite

If you enjoy dining, The Mountain Room, Yosemite, would be an excellent choice in Yosemite National Park, California. It’s 431 miles from San Diego and would take 7 hours and 33 mins of car driving.

The Mountain Room in Yosemite National Park is a must-visit dining spot for anyone traveling on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with wooden accents and a stunning forest view. The menu offers a variety of delicious dishes, with generous portions and reasonable prices. You must try their quality steaks that are cooked to perfection. The attentive and friendly staff adds to the delightful experience. The Mountain Room is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a great meal after a day of exploring the national park. Don’t forget to make a reservation in advance, as this restaurant is a popular spot among visitors. Dining at The Mountain Room is an experience you won’t want to miss on your road trip to Yosemite National Park.

If you want to learn more about the The Mountain Room, Yosemite you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

This section lists our five restaurant recommendations for your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 399 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Yosemite National Park road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. Keep reading.

5 Places To Visit On The San Diego To Yosemite National Park Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Yosemite National Park. However, there are also some unique destinations like Los Angeles, California on your road trip. We want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the Yosemite National Park route.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood will be the first destination we recommend you to stop by on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. Located in Los Angeles, California, Universal Studios Hollywood is 129 miles away from San Diego, and it would take 2 hours to drive.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit attraction on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. From exciting theme park rides to live shows and a real working movie studio, there’s something for everyone. Get ready for an action-packed day of entertainment and adventure. You’ll feel like a part of the action as you walk through the sets of some of your favorite movies and TV shows. Don’t forget to stop by CityWalk for great shopping and dining options. Whether you’re a movie buff or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, Universal Studios Hollywood won’t disappoint. Get ready to make unforgettable memories and experience the magic of Hollywood firsthand.

If you want to learn more about the Universal Studios Hollywood, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

2. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain, Santa Clarita, California is one of the destinations we recommend you to stop by on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park route. It’s 155 miles from San Diego, and it’ll take about 2 hours and 30 mins of driving.

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip, don’t miss Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita, California. This amusement park boasts over 100 rides, including some of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers. In addition to the roller coasters and water slides, Six Flags offers a range of animal experiences, festivals, food, and games, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. With its wide variety of attractions, it’s easy to spend a fun-filled day out with your family or friends. Whether you’re a fan of high-speed coasters or just looking for a fun day out, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a must-visit destination on your drive from San Diego to Yosemite National Park.

If you want to learn more about Six Flags Magic Mountain, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website.

3. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park is Bakersfield, California. And if you visit Bakersfield, California, we suggest you visit Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace. You can arrive at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace after 3 hours and 41 mins of driving.

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace in Bakersfield, California, is a must-visit destination on your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. With live music performances and a fun and family-friendly atmosphere, this restaurant is a great place to dine and enjoy some entertainment. The memorabilia and museum on display provide a unique charm to the place, making it a fun and informative experience for visitors. The service is excellent, and the food is delicious, with a variety of options to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of country music or just looking for a fun and unique dining experience, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a great place to stop along the way. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy some great music, food, and entertainment during your road trip through California.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace for more information.

4. Forestiere Underground Gardens

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Forestiere Underground Gardens, Fresno, California on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. Forestiere Underground Gardens is 346 miles from San Diego, and you can arrive there after the 5 hours and 23 mins of drive.

Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, California is an amazing place to visit on your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. The gardens are a hidden gem, and the underground architecture is truly awe-inspiring. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. The gardens are home to unique fruit-producing trees, shrubs, and vines growing underground, some of which are over 90 years old! The architecture is reminiscent of ancient catacombs, with arches, vaults, and stone-built walls, creating a unique atmosphere. The underground micro-climates are also fascinating, with temperature variations of 10 to 30 degrees. It’s incredible to think that one man, Baldassare Forestiere, spent 40 years building and improving this underground home and garden. His conservationist approach, using castaway remnants from landfills, is inspiring. We highly recommend visiting Forestiere Underground Gardens for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Forestiere Underground Gardens before going there.

5. Yosemite Valley

Located in Yosemite National Park, California, Yosemite Valley ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. You must take 7 hours and 24 mins of driving to arrive at Yosemite Valley.

Yosemite Valley is an absolute must-see on any San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This stunning location is surrounded by towering cliffs, glistening waterfalls, and an array of flora and fauna. The park’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, and it’s impossible not to feel a sense of peace and wonderment while taking in the breathtaking views. There’s so much to explore in Yosemite Valley, from hiking and rock climbing to stargazing and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy the Valley’s many natural wonders, including the Merced River, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan. Whether you’re an experienced outdoors enthusiast or simply looking to unwind in nature, Yosemite Valley is the perfect destination for a memorable day trip. So, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this wonder of nature on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive.

If you want to learn more about Yosemite Valley, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

FAQ of the Road Trip From San Diego to Yosemite National Park

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From San Diego To Yosemite National Park?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip takes approximately 6 hours and 30 mins to drive. The driving distance between San Diego to Yosemite National Park is 399 miles.
• If you want to make the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip by bike, the time you spend on the road will be 1 day 20 hours.
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the San Diego-Yosemite National Park route, then you will have to walk for 6 days 2 hours.

Where Do You Stop On Driving From San Diego To Yosemite National Park?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Yosemite National Park. You can visit Los Angeles, California; Santa Clarita, California; Bakersfield, California; Located off Highway 41, this hotel is a great value for families, offering safety, cleanliness, and comfortable beds. The hotel is conveniently located near shopping centers, restaurants, sports and fun activities, and medical clinics. The staff is friendly and the rooms are very clean, making it a great choice for those who value cleanliness. The free enhanced Daybreak breakfast with healthy options is a great way to start your day, followed by a workout in the well-equipped fitness center or a productive jaunt in the business center. Free high-speed WiFi, microwave, mini fridge, and a 50-inch LED TV are some of the amenities provided in the guest rooms. Parking is free, and there is plenty of space for large vehicles, including trucks and RVs.; Yosemite National Park, California; Fresno, California; ; ; ; on the road. Here we list five places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park journey, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The San Diego To Yosemite National Park Road Trip.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood: 129 miles / 2 hours to drive from San Diego | 270 miles / 4 hours and 28 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
2. Six Flags Magic Mountain: 155 miles / 2 hours and 30 mins to drive from San Diego | 247 miles / 4 hours and 10 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
3. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 231 miles / 3 hours and 41 mins to drive from San Diego | 168 miles / 2 hours and 51 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
4. Forestiere Underground Gardens: 346 miles / 5 hours and 23 mins to drive from San Diego | 61.7 miles / 1 hour and 24 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
5. Yosemite Valley: 428 miles / 7 hours and 24 mins to drive from San Diego | 17.6 miles / 38 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From San Diego To Yosemite National Park?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. We have selected five hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Yosemite National Park From San Diego section.

• The Prospect Hollywood: 127 miles / 2 hours to drive from San Diego | 273 miles / 4 hours and 31 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
• Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita: 150 miles / 2 hours and 26 mins to drive from San Diego | 251 miles / 4 hours and 13 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
• Best Western Plus Hill House: 232 miles / 3 hours and 45 mins to drive from San Diego | 170 miles / 2 hours and 55 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
• Days Inn Yosemite Area: 345 miles / 5 hours and 22 mins to drive from San Diego | 55.5 miles / 1 hour and 13 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
• Curry Village: 431 miles / 7 hours and 30 mins to drive from San Diego | 17.2 miles / 39 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.

Where To Eat Between San Diego to Yosemite National Park?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive, you can consider the five restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 5 Best Restaurants On The San Diego To Yosemite National Park Road Trip.

1. Brent’s Deli Northridge: 151 miles / 2 hours and 30 mins to drive from San Diego | 267 miles / 4 hours and 30 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
2. Egg Plantation: 151 miles / 2 hours and 28 mins to drive from San Diego | 250 miles / 4 hours and 12 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
3. 24th Street Cafe: 233 miles / 3 hours and 45 mins to drive from San Diego | 170 miles / 2 hours and 56 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
4. Pismo’s Coastal Grill: 347 miles / 5 hours and 25 mins to drive from San Diego | 53.5 miles / 1 hour and 11 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
5. The Mountain Room, Yosemite: 431 miles / 7 hours and 33 mins to drive from San Diego | 15.3 miles / 33 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. We have listed five hotels, five restaurants, and five places to visit on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want to have the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.