Find hotels in El Portal, CA from $96

Top reasons to visit El Portal

• Gateway to Yosemite National Park: El Portal serves as the entrance to Yosemite, providing easy access to breathtaking landscapes and iconic sites.
• Outdoor Adventure: Enjoy a range of activities, from hiking and skiing to exploring scenic trails in the surrounding wilderness.
• Family-Friendly Experiences: The area offers attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring fun for the whole family.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, including cozy bed and breakfasts and family-friendly hotels.
• Local Visitor Center: Enhance your visit by stopping by the visitor center to learn more about the region's natural beauty.

Find great hotels in and around El Portal

Discover the charm of El Portal, California, where a variety of accommodations await to suit every traveler's needs. From family-friendly hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, the area offers options perfect for adventure seekers and romantic getaways alike. With proximity to Yosemite National Park, enjoy breathtaking views and easy access to outdoor activities. Explore available hotels, read reviews, and find the ideal lodge for your unforgettable stay in this picturesque locale.

• Yosemite View Lodge: Nestled in the heart of El Portal, Yosemite View Lodge is the perfect getaway for adventure-seeking families and pet owners. This hotel offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities, such as kayaking, hiking, and snow tubing, all within close proximity. Guests can enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with amenities like an arcade game room and nearby sledding options. With a pet-friendly policy that accommodates dogs, this lodge ensures that your furry friends can join in on the adventure, making it an ideal choice for a memorable family vacation.
• Cedar Lodge: Cedar Lodge is a fantastic retreat for those looking to combine adventure with relaxation by the water. Located in El Portal, this hotel provides direct access to the beach, allowing guests to soak up the sun and partake in water activities like fishing and rafting. With thrilling options such as skiing and hiking nearby, Cedar Lodge caters to active travelers seeking a beach vacation experience. The property’s inviting atmosphere and surrounding natural beauty create a perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating getaway.
• Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite: Just 11 miles from El Portal, Rush Creek Lodge and Spa is a serene escape that blends adventure with comfort. With a 3.5-star rating, this lodge is ideal for families, business travelers, and those seeking a unique vacation experience. The property features a variety of activities, from mountain biking to fishing, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy amenities like a foosball table and playground, while business travelers benefit from meeting facilities. The blend of recreation and relaxation makes Rush Creek Lodge a standout option.

Where to stay in and around El Portal

El Portal, California, offers a remarkable escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Surrounded by stunning scenery, this charming city provides access to recreational areas perfect for adventure seekers. Visitors can unwind in the tranquility of nature, explore family-friendly attractions, and enjoy a friendly atmosphere. Just a stone's throw away, you'll find delightful shopping options and memorable getaways, making El Portal an ideal destination for your next vacation.

• Yosemite West: Nestled just 4 miles from El Portal, Yosemite West is a charming neighborhood that serves as a gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park. Known for its year-round outdoor adventures, this area attracts nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, especially during peak seasons from April to July. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the scenic recreational areas. With stunning views of the valley and close proximity to national parks, Yosemite West promises a memorable experience for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Foresta: A quaint village located 2 miles from El Portal, Foresta offers a serene retreat for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. The village experiences moderate seasonal visitor traffic, peaking in the warmer months of April through July. Foresta is ideal for outdoor lovers, featuring access to ski fields and recreational areas. The nearby valley and national parks provide ample opportunities for hiking and sightseeing, making Foresta a perfect base for those eager to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the surroundings.
• Incline: Situated within the vicinity of El Portal, Incline is a delightful village that attracts adventure seekers seeking the thrill of the outdoors. Similar to its neighbors, Incline sees a moderate influx of visitors, peaking from April to July. This area is known for its recreational activities, including skiing and exploring the scenic beauty of nearby national parks. With its stunning landscapes and outdoor options, Incline is an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience the natural wonders that define this captivating region.

Things to do in and around El Portal

El Portal, California, is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including access to recreational areas, ski resorts, and park adventures. The area offers numerous trails for exploration, along with friendly excursions that make for memorable experiences in nature. Whether you're skiing or hiking, El Portal promises an exciting getaway filled with adventure opportunities.

Shopping

In El Portal, you can shop for gifts and souvenirs at El Portal Market, a local store offering a variety of items. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting nearby shopping malls for a wider selection of goods and unique finds.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, where you can unwind amidst nature, just 11 miles from El Portal. For rejuvenation, indulge in body treatments at Ascent, the Spa at Tenaya Lodge, located 16 miles away. For a sporty day, enjoy a round at Wawona Golf Course, 12 miles from El Portal.

Adventure

At Badger Pass Ski Area, 7 miles from El Portal, enjoy exhilarating skiing and snowboarding among breathtaking mountain views. For a relaxing day, head to Cathedral Beach Picnic Area, located 9 miles away, where you can unwind in nature. Experience family-friendly camping at Sentinel Beach Picnic Area, 11 miles from El Portal.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife in El Portal by visiting the Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, just 11 miles away, where you can enjoy captivating performances in a romantic setting. Alternatively, head to the Golden Chain Theater, located 23 miles away, for a delightful evening filled with culture and entertainment for the whole family.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Portal

To save money on your trip to El Portal, take advantage of free attractions like Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance and Cathedral Beach. Visit during the low seasons of January, March, or November for lower accommodation rates, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals. Use Expedia to find last-minute offers, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards on future bookings.

• 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: Expedia offers a user-friendly search tool that lets you specify your budget, preferred location, and other criteria. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the most affordable to the more expensive options, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—just check the Eco-certified filter to view sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in El Portal with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near El Portal

El Portal, California, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the Yosemite Valley and the entrance to Yosemite National Park, which provide ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. Visitors can also enjoy the local visitor center, enhancing their understanding of this beautiful region. Whether you're looking for thrilling activities or a serene escape into nature, El Portal has something to offer every traveler.

• Yosemite Valley: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Valley, located 12 miles from El Portal. This iconic valley is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning vistas, hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing and photography amidst majestic cliffs and waterfalls.
• Yosemite National Park: Just 11 miles away, Yosemite National Park is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With diverse landscapes, from towering sequoias to granite peaks, this park invites you to explore its scenic beauty through hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Yosemite Arch Rock Gate Entrance: Only 3 miles from El Portal, the Arch Rock Gate Entrance serves as a welcoming hub for families and visitors. Here, you can gather information, enjoy nature exhibits, and embark on your adventure into the stunning landscapes of Yosemite.

Best time to go to El Portal

The best time to visit El Portal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in El Portal falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in El Portal falls in February, 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

To visit El Portal, California, you can fly into several nearby airports. Merced Municipal Airport (MCE) is 48 miles away, with hotel options such as the 3.5-star El Capitan Hotel, 2 miles from the airport, and the 3-star Courtyard by Marriott, 3 miles away. Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is 52 miles distant, with the 4-star Westin Monache Resort located 8 miles from there. Mariposa-Yosemite Airport (RMY) is the closest at 18 miles away, offering accommodations like the 3.5-star AutoCamp Yosemite, 7 miles from the airport. Each hotel provides convenient access to its respective airport for a smooth travel experience.