Yosemite National Park To San Diego Road Trip: Incredible Views

Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA. The 399 miles of Yosemite National Park to San Diego drive takes around 6 hours and 31 mins without stops.

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

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

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

1. Days Inn Yosemite Area

If you want to stay near Fresno, California; Days Inn Yosemite Area could be a suitable option for you on the Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip. Driving from Yosemite National Park to Days Inn Yosemite Area might take around 1 hour and 12 mins.

Days Inn Yosemite Area in Fresno, California is a great value for those on a San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. It’s conveniently located off Highway 41 and only a 45-minute drive to Yosemite. The hotel is also near top medical facilities, shopping centers, and restaurants. The staff is friendly and the rooms are very clean with comfortable beds and good air conditioning. The hotel offers free parking, free high-speed internet, and a free breakfast with healthy options. They also have a well-equipped fitness center and business center. The pet-friendly hotel has non-smoking facilities and spacious guest rooms with amenities such as a microwave, mini fridge, 50-inch LED TV, and coffee and tea facilities. The only complaint was that the wifi connection was not stable. If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay near Yosemite, Days Inn Yosemite Area in Fresno is a great option.

Check the Days Inn Yosemite Area, one of the best hotels in Fresno, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Best Western Plus Hill House

If you’re looking for a hotel near Bakersfield, California; Best Western Plus Hill House might be the perfect choice for you to stay on the road trip to San Diego from Yosemite National Park is Best Western Plus Hill House. Best Western Plus Hill House is 171 miles away from Yosemite National Park, and it would take 2 hours and 58 mins to drive.

The Best Western Plus Hill House is a great option for travelers on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip looking for comfortable accommodations in Bakersfield. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including complimentary continental breakfast and an on-site restaurant, making it easy to start your day off right. With its pet-friendly policy, you can even bring your furry companion along for the adventure. The hotel is located close to popular Bakersfield attractions like Rabobank Arena, and it’s just a short drive to other area points of interest. Whether you’re in town for a quick stopover or an extended stay, the Best Western Plus Hill House is an excellent choice for your Bakersfield accommodations. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home, and the comfortable rooms are sure to provide a restful night’s sleep before continuing your journey to Yosemite National Park.

If you want to learn more about the Best Western Plus Hill House, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com.

3. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita

Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near Santa Clarita, California. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is 251 miles away from Yosemite National Park. You can arrive there with 4 hours and 16 mins of non-stop driving.

Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is a unique and stylish hotel located in the heart of Santa Clarita’s arts and entertainment district. This hotel is the perfect place to stay on a road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park, providing visitors with a blend of contemporary elegance and historic culture. The hotel is within walking distance of many popular restaurants, live music venues, and luxurious shopping, offering plenty of opportunities for entertainment and relaxation. The hotel rooms at Hotel Lexen are simple and stylish, providing guests with a peaceful and comfortable environment to unwind. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Hotel Lexen is an excellent choice for visitors seeking a unique and comfortable stay in Santa Clarita. So if you’re on a road trip and looking for a good place to stay, Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is definitely worth checking out!

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita, for more information.

4. The Prospect Hollywood

If you want to stay near Los Angeles, California; The Prospect Hollywood could be a suitable option for you. The Prospect Hollywood is 273 miles from Yosemite National Park, and it would take 4 hours and 32 mins to drive.

The Prospect Hollywood in Los Angeles is a perfect destination for a relaxing and elegant adult getaway. The location is excellent, within walking distance of many restaurants and bars. The hotel has a unique style, with elegant and tasteful architecture that is sure to impress. The friendly service and attention to cleanliness are notable, making for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This intimate setting is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in a peaceful and serene environment. I highly recommend The Prospect Hollywood and would definitely stay here again. If you’re planning a road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park, make sure to add this hotel to your list of stops on the way.

If you need more info about the price and availability of The Prospect Hollywood, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station

Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near San Diego, California. It will take 6 hours and 32 mins of car ride o reach Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station from Yosemite National Park.

Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station is a great hotel option for travelers visiting San Diego. The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms, with spacious bathrooms and cozy beds. Although the rooms are on the smaller side, they are well-maintained and come equipped with a mini fridge. The location of the hotel is ideal for those looking to explore the city, with plenty of nearby restaurants within walking distance. It is also conveniently located near major attractions, which are easily accessible with a car. The staff is friendly and accommodating, providing excellent service to guests throughout their stay. If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient hotel option in San Diego on your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park, Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station is definitely worth considering.

Check the Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station for reviews, prices, and availability.

In this part, we explained five hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Yosemite National Park to San Diego. 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 Yosemite National Park to San Diego route.

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

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

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

1. Pismo’s Coastal Grill

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip with Pismo’s Coastal Grill. Pismo’s Coastal Grill is located in Fresno, California, and is 53.4 miles from Yosemite National Park. It would take 1 hour and 11 mins of driving.

Pismo’s Coastal Grill in Fresno, California is a must-visit seafood spot for any traveler on their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This restaurant offers fresh seafood that will satisfy any seafood lover’s craving. The open-air feel of the restaurant makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a bowl of creamy clam chowder, marinated cracked crab or fish & chips while soaking up the California sun. The food was perfectly cooked and served promptly by the excellent staff. The pricing was fair, and the service was top-notch. The restaurant’s fun decor and the proximity to the fish market make it an excellent dining experience for everyone. I definitely recommend making reservations in advance to ensure you can indulge in the best seafood in Fresno. Whether you’re in the mood for a late-night snack, brunch, or a relaxing dinner, Pismo’s Coastal Grill is the place to be.

For more information about Pismo’s Coastal Grill, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Pismo’s Coastal Grill.

2. 24th Street Cafe

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to San Diego from Yosemite National Park is 24th Street Cafe. Located in Bakersfield, California, 24th Street Cafe is 169 miles from Yosemite National Park and would take 2 hours and 56 mins of driving.

24th Street Cafe in Bakersfield, California is a must-visit restaurant on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel right at home as you enjoy their delicious home-style cooking. With a variety of menu items to choose from, including breakfast all day, sandwiches, and hearty entrees, there is something for everyone at this local gem. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’ll leave feeling satisfied and ready to hit the road. Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm of 24th Street Cafe during your travels through California.

If you want to learn more about 24th Street Cafe, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

3. Egg Plantation

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Egg Plantation. It will take 4 hours and 15 mins of car drive to take 250 miles from Yosemite National Park to Egg Plantation, Santa Clarita, California.

Egg Plantation in Santa Clarita, California is a must-visit for those looking for a delicious breakfast or brunch spot on their San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. The menu is packed with a wide range of breakfast options to suit all tastes, including their famous 101 omelets. Not only is the food delicious, but the restaurant also serves up specialty espresso drinks and has a full bar that is known for making some of the best Bloody Marys around. On weekends, guests can enjoy live music from the talented Marco Tulio. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before hitting the road or to take a break from driving and enjoy a leisurely meal. Service is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Overall, Egg Plantation is a great place to stop for some comfort food and relaxation on your journey to Yosemite National Park.

You can check Egg Plantation, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. Brent’s Deli Northridge

Brent’s Deli Northridge deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Los Angeles, California.

Brent’s Deli Northridge is a must-visit spot on your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. This family-owned deli has been serving guests with delicious meals since 1967. Their traditional recipes and premium cuts will leave you wanting more. Brent’s Deli Northridge is a great spot to take a break from the road and indulge in some comfort food. The selection of coffee and desserts is something you shouldn’t miss out on. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, and the service is friendly and attentive. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pastrami sandwich or something sweet, Brent’s Deli Northridge has got you covered. This restaurant is perfect for a breakfast, lunch, or dinner stop on your road trip. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to dine at one of the best delis in Southern California.

Brent’s Deli Northridge is 267 miles from Yosemite National Park, and it would take 4 hours and 31 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Brent’s Deli Northridge, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

5. Oceana Coastal Kitchen

If you enjoy dining, Oceana Coastal Kitchen, would be an excellent choice in San Diego, California. It’s 394 miles from Yosemite National Park and would take 6 hours and 31 mins of car driving.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen in San Diego is a must-visit restaurant during your San Diego to Yosemite National Park road trip. The restaurant has a stunning bayfront location, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience. The atmosphere is perfect, with a relaxing and welcoming vibe that complements the view. The service is top-notch, with a friendly and accommodating staff. The restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes, including delectable sushi rolls that are expertly crafted. Their menu has something for everyone, with a variety of dishes that will leave you wanting more. The drinks are great, with an extensive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a fun night with friends, Oceana Coastal Kitchen is the perfect place to dine during your road trip.

If you want to learn more about the Oceana Coastal Kitchen you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

This section lists our five restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Yosemite National Park to San Diego. 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 San Diego 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 Yosemite National Park to San Diego. Keep reading.

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

A unique experience awaits you in San Diego. However, there are also some unique destinations like Fresno, California on your road trip. We want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the San Diego route.

1. Forestiere Underground Gardens

Forestiere Underground Gardens will be the first destination we recommend you to stop by on your Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip. Located in Fresno, California, Forestiere Underground Gardens is 61.6 miles away from Yosemite National Park, and it would take 1 hour and 26 mins to drive.

Forestiere Underground Gardens is a unique and amazing attraction located in Fresno, California. It’s a hand-built underground network of rooms, courtyards, and passageways that took Sicilian visionary and self-taught artist/builder Baldassare Forestiere 40 years to create. The ancient Roman architecture with arches, vaults, and stone-built walls adds a touch of history to the place. The unique feature of the underground micro-climates creates temperature variations of 10 to 30 degrees, and the fruit-producing trees, shrubs, and vines growing underground are over 90 years old. The tour guide, Rhonda, is knowledgeable and friendly, providing interesting facts about the place. It’s an inspiring story of one man’s accomplishment over many years. A visit to Forestiere Underground Gardens is an unforgettable experience, and it’s a great place to take a break during a long drive from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. I highly recommend a tour of this amazing place to everyone.

If you want to learn more about the Forestiere Underground Gardens, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

2. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, Bakersfield, California is one of the destinations we recommend you to stop by on the Yosemite National Park to San Diego route. It’s 169 miles from Yosemite National Park, and it’ll take about 2 hours and 55 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. The live music performed by talented artists sets the mood for a fun evening out. The service is prompt, and the staff is friendly and accommodating, making it a great spot for families. The museum and memorabilia on display add to the charm of this unique location. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the era of classic country music. The food is delicious, and the portions are generous, so come with a hearty appetite. If you’re a fan of country music or just looking for a fun night out, be sure to add Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace to your list of must-visit spots on your drive through California.

If you want to learn more about Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website.

3. Six Flags Magic Mountain

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Yosemite National Park to San Diego is Santa Clarita, California. And if you visit Santa Clarita, California, we suggest you visit Six Flags Magic Mountain. You can arrive at Six Flags Magic Mountain after 4 hours of driving.

Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita, California is a fantastic amusement park that is a must-visit attraction for thrill-seekers on the San Diego to Yosemite National Park drive. With its diverse range of rides and attractions, including a variety of roller coasters and water slides, it’s no wonder Six Flags Magic Mountain has become a popular destination for families and adventure lovers. The park’s animal experiences, festivals, food, and games will keep visitors entertained all day long. From the adrenaline rush of the X2 and Tatsu roller coasters to the splashes of the Tidal Wave and Buccaneer Beach water slides, there is no shortage of fun and excitement to be had at this amusement park. You’ll definitely want to make a stop here on your road trip for a fun-filled day out!

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Six Flags Magic Mountain for more information.

4. Universal Studios Hollywood

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles, California on the Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip. Universal Studios Hollywood is 271 miles from Yosemite National Park, and you can arrive there after the 4 hours and 30 mins of drive.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination for movie lovers, theme park enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun-filled day in Los Angeles. With thrilling rides, live shows, and a working movie studio, there’s something for everyone here. The park features some of the most popular attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, The Walking Dead, and Jurassic World. The rides are exciting, and the shows are entertaining, with plenty of opportunities to meet your favorite characters. But that’s not all – CityWalk, located right outside the park, offers a fantastic selection of restaurants, shops, and cinemas, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of thrills. So if you’re driving from San Diego to Yosemite National Park, make sure to stop by Universal Studios Hollywood for a memorable and exciting experience.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Universal Studios Hollywood before going there.

5. USS Midway Museum

Located in San Diego, California, USS Midway Museum ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Yosemite National Park to San Diego. You must take 6 hours and 34 mins of driving to arrive at USS Midway Museum.

USS Midway Museum in San Diego is a must-visit destination on your road trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park. This floating museum is an awe-inspiring tribute to America’s military might and a testament to the bravery of those who served our country. The ship has been converted into an interactive museum that lets visitors explore the different parts of the aircraft carrier and get a glimpse of life at sea. You can climb the ship’s tower, check out the massive flight deck, and see the living quarters of the sailors who once called the Midway their home. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to spend several hours and exploring the museum. It’s a great destination for families and history buffs alike, and a perfect place to stop and stretch your legs on the drive from San Diego to Yosemite National Park.

If you want to learn more about USS Midway Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

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

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

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

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip takes approximately 6 hours and 31 mins to drive. The driving distance between Yosemite National Park to San Diego is 399 miles.
• If you want to make the Yosemite National Park to San Diego road trip by bike, the time you spend on the road will be 1 day 17 hours.
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Yosemite National Park-San Diego route, then you will have to walk for 5 days 23 hours.

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

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to San Diego. You can visit Fresno, California; Bakersfield, California; Santa Clarita, California; Los Angeles, California; San Diego, California; ; ; ; ; on the road. Here we list five places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Yosemite National Park to San Diego journey, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The Yosemite National Park To San Diego Road Trip.

1. Forestiere Underground Gardens: 61.6 miles / 1 hour and 26 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 345 miles / 5 hours and 23 mins of driving to San Diego.
2. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 169 miles / 2 hours and 55 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 232 miles / 3 hours and 40 mins of driving to San Diego.
3. Six Flags Magic Mountain: 246 miles / 4 hours to drive from Yosemite National Park | 156 miles / 2 hours and 33 mins of driving to San Diego.
4. Universal Studios Hollywood: 271 miles / 4 hours and 30 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 129 miles / 2 hours of driving to San Diego.
5. USS Midway Museum: 400 miles / 6 hours and 34 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 1.4 miles.

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

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Yosemite National Park to San Diego. 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 San Diego From Yosemite National Park section.

• Days Inn Yosemite Area: 55.6 miles / 1 hour and 12 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 345 miles / 5 hours and 23 mins of driving to San Diego.
• Best Western Plus Hill House: 171 miles / 2 hours and 58 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 232 miles / 3 hours and 44 mins of driving to San Diego.
• Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita: 251 miles / 4 hours and 16 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 150 miles / 2 hours and 25 mins of driving to San Diego.
• The Prospect Hollywood: 273 miles / 4 hours and 32 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 127 miles / 2 hours of driving to San Diego.
• Courtyard San Diego Airport/Liberty Station: 398 miles / 6 hours and 32 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park.

Where To Eat Between Yosemite National Park to San Diego?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Yosemite National Park to San Diego 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 Yosemite National Park To San Diego Road Trip.

1. Pismo’s Coastal Grill: 53.4 miles / 1 hour and 11 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 347 miles / 5 hours and 25 mins of driving to San Diego.
2. 24th Street Cafe: 169 miles / 2 hours and 56 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 233 miles / 3 hours and 45 mins of driving to San Diego.
3. Egg Plantation: 250 miles / 4 hours and 15 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 151 miles / 2 hours and 26 mins of driving to San Diego.
4. Brent’s Deli Northridge: 267 miles / 4 hours and 31 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park | 150 miles / 2 hours and 29 mins of driving to San Diego.
5. Oceana Coastal Kitchen: 394 miles / 6 hours and 31 mins to drive from Yosemite National Park.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Yosemite National Park to San Diego. We have listed five hotels, five restaurants, and five places to visit on the Yosemite National Park to San Diego 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 Yosemite National Park to San Diego as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Yosemite National Park to San Diego 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 Yosemite National Park to San Diego and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.