Los Banos

Travel Guide

Photo by Jess. LongestBusRide

Once a Mexican migrant settlement, this Californian town is located on the edge of one of the most important wetland regions in North America.

Perched on the edge of one of California’s most significant wetland reserves, Los Banos is an excellent place to establish a home base as you explore the Californian desert. Enjoy the rich atmosphere of this small city of 35,000 residents. Mexican migrants originally settled Los Banos in 1840 and a large percentage of the town’s population remains Hispanic.

The town’s name translates to “the baths,” referring to the spring that feeds into the surrounding wetlands and the San Joaquin Valley. Visit the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge to see fowl and other game in their natural habitat.

Los Banos has a desert climate. If you’re hiking or enjoying other outdoor activities, be aware that temperatures are dry and hot during the day and can become incredibly cold once the sun goes down. Drive south to reach the San Joaquin Valley where you can hike and visit the river gorge.

Head back to Los Banos to explore the city streets. Many historic buildings date back to the early settlement years, when Los Banos was part of the “Wild West.”

Mexican, Basque and Portuguese communities host a number of lively festivals throughout the year, including the May Day Fair at the beginning of the month. With its large Mexican population, Los Banos is a great place to sample traditional Mexicali cuisine. Pick up a hearty burrito or a plate of tacos, coupled with a tropical-flavored soda or ice-cold beer.

While you can drive to Los Banos from major Californian cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles, a regional airport also serves the city. Once you arrive, rent a car for the freedom to explore the natural landscape surrounding the city. Find accommodation in downtown Los Banos, close to many local restaurants and cafés.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Los Banos

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Los Banos

3 out of 5
20 W Pacheco Blvd, Los Banos, CA
The price is €109 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
€109
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Los Banos. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"I was planning on staying at my usual hotel, Best Western, but they have a NO guest policy and I visit Los Banos to see my sister. The time I stayed there she was NOT allowed to come inside my room, she had to wait outside. My sister suggested La Quinta, as the reviews are really good, and the cost ..."

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Los Banos
Best Western Executive Inn

Best Western Executive Inn

2.5 out of 5
301 W Pacheco Boulevard, Los Banos, CA
The price is €122 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
€122
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Los Banos. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (753 reviews)
"Thumbs up all around!"

Reviewed on 15 Aug 2025

Best Western Executive Inn
Economy Inn

Economy Inn

2 out of 5
528 E Pacheco Blvd, Los Banos, CA
The price is €68 per night from 19 Aug to 20 Aug
€68
19 Aug - 20 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Los Banos. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (759 reviews)
"I like the parking big spaces"

Reviewed on 13 Aug 2025

Economy Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cozy Cottage Retreat,  Close to Yosemite, Beautiful Views, Hot Tub & More!

Cozy Cottage Retreat, Close to Yosemite, Beautiful Views, Hot Tub & More!

Mariposa
Book a stay at this family-friendly cottage in Mariposa. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch and ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (311 reviews)
2-night getaway to Yosemite
"We were at Susan and Brian’s beautiful cottage for a weekend and had the coziest, most wonderful stay. The sun shines in every room and at night, the stars are the clearest we’ve ever seen them. Susan was very welcoming and accommodating. The place itself was very comfortable and had everything you ..."

Reviewed on 26 Jul 2025

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Trabucco Gardens - Yosemite Gold Country Stargazing Retreat!

Trabucco Gardens - Yosemite Gold Country Stargazing Retreat!

Mariposa
Stay at this cabin in Mariposa. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Bagby Recreation Area and Lake McClure Bagby Recreation ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (257 reviews)
"Fantastic stay! Has everything you need to get a good nights sleep and relax!"

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Trabucco Gardens - Yosemite Gold Country Stargazing Retreat!
New Listing - Enjoy your stay while visting Yosemite

New Listing - Enjoy your stay while visting Yosemite

Mariposa
Stay at this vacation home in Mariposa. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
10/10 Exceptional! (222 reviews)
"Check in was super easy. Kitchen had all the items you could possibly need. John was very responsive to our needs. Overall, a very positive experience."

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2025

New Listing - Enjoy your stay while visting Yosemite
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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