El Portal Hotels

Top reasons to visit El Portal

• Proximity to Yosemite National Park: El Portal serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Yosemite National Park, offering stunning views and numerous hiking trails.
• Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can partake in activities like hiking, rock climbing, and river rafting.
• Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of delightful lodging options, from family-friendly hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts.
• Scenic Beauty: The surrounding landscapes provide awe-inspiring vistas, perfect for relaxation and photography.
• Family-Friendly Activities: El Portal offers numerous attractions suitable for families, making it a great destination for all ages.

Find great hotels in and around El Portal

Discover a range of charming accommodations in El Portal, California, perfect for your adventure in Yosemite. From family-friendly hotels to delightful bed and breakfasts, you'll find options that cater to pet owners and those seeking affordable stays. Whether you choose the rustic Adobe Hacienda or other nearby lodgings, enjoy a memorable getaway surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

• Yosemite View Lodge: Nestled in the heart of El Portal, Yosemite View Lodge offers a perfect blend of family-friendly adventure and pet-friendly accommodation. This hotel is ideal for explorers seeking an active holiday, providing a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and rafting in the surrounding areas. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including an arcade game room and nearby sledding options. With its welcoming pet policy, furry friends are also catered for, making it a versatile choice for all travellers.
• Cedar Lodge: Cedar Lodge is your gateway to a beach-inspired adventure right in El Portal. This hotel boasts direct beach access, catering to those who enjoy a sun-soaked getaway. The property offers thrilling activities such as fishing, skiing, and hiking, perfect for the adventurous spirit. Cedar Lodge’s relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the water make it an attractive choice for those looking to unwind while indulging in various outdoor pursuits, ensuring a memorable experience for beach lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
• Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite: For a touch of luxury amidst adventure, Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite is a splendid choice just 17.7km from El Portal. This 3.5-star hotel combines family-friendly amenities with a serene spa experience. Guests can indulge in a range of activities from mountain climbing to snowshoeing, while children can enjoy the playground and games available on-site. After a day of exploration, unwind in the full-service spa or relax in the outdoor pool and hot tub, making it a perfect retreat for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Where to stay in and around El Portal

El Portal, California, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering breathtaking views and a friendly atmosphere. Explore nearby regions for a family-friendly vibe, with opportunities for relaxation amidst stunning scenery. Whether you’re seeking an authentic glimpse of nature or a tranquil beach stay, El Portal serves as the perfect base for unforgettable experiences in this picturesque part of the United States.

• Yosemite West: Nestled a mere 6.4km from El Portal, Yosemite West is a neighbourhood that serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in California. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, this locale peaks in popularity during the vibrant months of April and from June to July. Adventurers flock here to immerse themselves in outdoor activities, revel in breathtaking scenery, and partake in exciting recreational opportunities. Notable attractions nearby include the majestic Yosemite Valley and the renowned Yosemite National Park, perfect for hiking, skiing, and exploring the great outdoors.
• Foresta: Located just 3.2km away from El Portal, Foresta is a quaint village that offers a serene escape into nature. This charming destination experiences a moderate seasonal influx of tourists, with peak visitor numbers mirroring those of Yosemite West. Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, with a wealth of adventure and scenic experiences awaiting them. Foresta boasts easy access to picturesque recreational areas, ski fields, and ski resorts, while the nearby Yosemite Valley and national parks provide stunning backdrops for unforgettable excursions.
• Incline: Situated within the vicinity of El Portal, Incline is another inviting village that captures the essence of outdoor exploration. Like its neighbours, Incline sees a moderate seasonal flow of visitors, particularly thriving in the picturesque spring and summer months. Here, travellers can indulge in adventure-filled activities, from skiing to hiking, all amid stunning natural beauty. The proximity to iconic landmarks such as Yosemite Valley and the national parks makes Incline an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in the splendour of the surrounding wilderness.

Things to do in and around El Portal

El Portal, California, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities including exploring the recreational area, hitting the ski slopes at nearby ski resorts, and embarking on thrilling adventure tours. Whether you're after an adrenaline rush or a serene nature experience, El Portal offers an unforgettable vacation filled with excitement and natural beauty.

Shopping

In El Portal, you'll find the El Portal Market, a charming store offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, Mariposa Marketplace is around 20.9km away, featuring a variety of local shops and artisan goods to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

Enjoy a serene day at Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, where you can savour nature amidst tranquil surroundings. For rejuvenation, indulge in treatments at Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge. For outdoor enthusiasts, Wawona Golf Course offers a delightful golfing experience framed by stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Experience exhilarating skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area, located 11.3km from El Portal, where you can enjoy the thrill of the slopes. For a relaxing day outdoors, visit Cathedral Beach Picnic Area, 14.5km away, perfect for a lovely picnic surrounded by nature's beauty. Embark on an adventure along Merced Grove Trailhead, 11.3km from El Portal, offering stunning scenery and invigorating hikes.

Nightlife

The nightlife in El Portal is enriched by nearby venues like the Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, 17.7km away, offering vibrant cultural performances, and the Golden Chain Theater, 37.0km away, known for its enchanting shows and family-friendly atmosphere. Both promise a delightful evening filled with entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Portal

To save money on your trip to El Portal, visit during the cheaper months of January, March, or November, and consider booking your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates. Utilise public transport options like buses or consider car rentals for convenience. Take advantage of free attractions such as Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance and Cathedral Beach. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Tuesdays, which tend to be the least expensive days for stays. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also lead to significant savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Portal are January, March and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in El Portal is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Portal is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in El Portal is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To uncover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your El Portal hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near El Portal

El Portal is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore local highlights such as the visitor centre, the picturesque valley, and the nearby national and state parks. These points of interest provide memorable experiences for families and travellers alike, making El Portal a perfect spot for a delightful vacation immersed in nature.

• Yosemite Valley: Nestled 19.3km from El Portal, Yosemite Valley is a breathtaking expanse surrounded by towering cliffs, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls. The adventure and outdoor vibes here beckon hikers, climbers, and photographers to immerse themselves in nature's grandeur.
• Yosemite National Park: Located 17.7km away, this iconic national park offers stunning scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities. Experience the thrill of exploring diverse landscapes, from granite peaks to tranquil lakes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
• Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance: Just 4.8km from El Portal, this welcoming visitor centre serves as the gateway to adventure. With family-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the park’s wonders and planning unforgettable experiences.

Best time to go to El Portal

The best time to visit El Portal is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	30.2°F (-1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	56.3°F (13.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.1°F (-1.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Portal

Visiting El Portal, California, can be conveniently accomplished by flying into one of several nearby airports. Merced Municipal Airport (MCE) is situated 77.2km away, with nearby hotels such as the 3.5-star El Capitan Hotel, just 3.2km from the airport, and Courtyard by Marriott Merced, located 4.8km away. Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is 53.2km from El Portal, offering options like the 4-star Westin Monache Resort, 12.9km from the airport. Additionally, Mariposa-Yosemite Airport (RMY) is a mere 112.9km away, with accommodations such as AutoCamp Yosemite, situated 11.3km from the airport, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors.