Breathtaking waterfalls, abundant wildlife, deep valleys and grand meadows — welcome to Yosemite National Park!
Vacationing in Yosemite National Park is quite an experience, but have you thought about where to stay to make the most of your visit?
To point you in the right direction, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most unique lodging options and vacation homes available in Yosemite.
Let’s get started.
Yosemite’s breathtaking natural beauty
Yosemite National Park is a nature lover’s paradise.
Located in California, it welcomes hundreds of visitors every year who come to explore its natural wonders and stunning landscapes.
In this slice of natural paradise, you’ll spend your downtime relishing majestic waterfalls, giant sequoias, abundant wildlife and awe-inspiring cliffs like Half Dome and El Capitan.
But the park is more than just a beautiful backdrop. It’s a place to connect with nature, challenge yourself with outdoor activities and create unforgettable memories.
You can take a moonlit stroll, share a picnic as the sun sets over the mountains or rent a bicycle and explore the winding roads and breathtaking vistas of Yosemite Valley.
P.S. Don’t forget your camera.
9 unique lodging options in Yosemite
Considering a weekend getaway to escape the big city life? Maybe an adventure-packed backpacking trip to raise those endorphin levels? Or perhaps a ski holiday with breathtaking views?
With so much to do and see, Yosemite offers an unforgettable experience — no matter if you’re a nature lover, an adventure junkie or simply looking for a peaceful retreat.
There are various accommodation options to choose from, including hotels that date back to the 20th century, lodges nestled in the heart of the park, and rustic cabins that offer an authentic camping experience.
Here are some of our favorite vacation rentals.
The Ahwahnee Hotel
Go toward the east end of Yosemite Valley to find the Ahwahnee Hotel (formerly the Majestic Yosemite Hotel).
The Ahwahnee Hotel has been inspiring visitors since its opening in 1927, featuring a unique blend of design influences that include Art Deco, Native American, Middle Eastern and the Arts & Crafts movement.
But that’s not all. This historic hotel is set on a backdrop of untainted wilderness, offering guests breathtaking views of Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point and Half Dome.
The thoughtfully curated rooms, suites and cottages offer a cozy escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
And when you’re ready to explore, The Ahwahnee Hotel is conveniently located near some of Yosemite’s most popular attractions, such as hiking trails in Yosemite Falls and scenic spots like the Tunnel View.
With so much to see and do, you may find yourself wanting to disconnect from your digital sidekick (Wi-Fi is available in guest rooms and public spaces if you do need to connect).
Amenities:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Lounge/bar
- Gift shop
- ADA accessible
- Shuttle access
- Concierge
- ATM/bank
- Pet-friendly rooms
- Air conditioning
- Telephone and television
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Wake up to the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite right outside your doorstep and start your adventure for the day.
Here’s an interesting fact: Yosemite Valley Lodge received its name because it is, quite literally, the closest property to Yosemite Falls.
This means you can wake up to the sound of cascading water and take in stunning views of the falls right from your room!
The area around Yosemite Valley Lodge offers plenty to do — hiking, biking and rock climbing, just to name a few.
And when you’re ready to unwind, return to your beautifully appointed room with verandas that overlook the stunning Yosemite Valley.
This iconic property’s wood and glass architecture perfectly blends with the natural surroundings.
Amenities:
- Multiple dining options
- Shuttle access
- Amphitheater programs and presentations
- Free guest parking
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Gift shop
- ADA accessible
- On-site bike rentals
- Meeting and banquet facilities
- Tour and activities desk
Wawona Hotel
Accommodations at the Wawona Hotel are open almost year-round, and booking a room here guarantees proximity to the Pioneer History Center and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
You’ll stay in one of 104 uniquely designed rooms inspired by the Victorian era with bright windows, hand-painted lamps and summertime verandas. Romantic, right?
But if the warm and inviting atmosphere isn’t enough to make your day, why not hit one of the nearby hiking and biking trails or take a refreshing dip in the pool during the summer months?
You may even hit the links for a round of golf or escape to a nearby town like El Portal, Yosemite West and Groveland.
Horseback riding is also available, providing a unique way to experience the stunning natural beauty surrounding the hotel.
Amenities:
- Summer Saturday night barbeque
- Golf course
- Pioneer Yosemite History Center
- Wawona Hotel horse stable
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free guest parking
- Cozy fireplace in the winter
- Sunroom
- Evening piano music
Curry Village
Nestled in the shadow of Glacier Point, Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village) offers a serene and picturesque mountain retreat.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this iconic spot offers many lodging options, including motel rooms, wood-sided cabins and canvas tent cabins.
But what makes Curry Village a beloved destination for visitors is its rustic charm and warm hospitality.
Today, the legacy of the founders — David and Jennie Curry — lives on in every corner of Curry Village.
From the historic cabins and tent cabins to the communal gathering areas, you can feel the love and care that went into creating this special place that visitors can call “home.”
Plan ahead to find rates as low as $85 per night — making Curry Village an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience Yosemite’s natural beauty.
Amenities:
- Yosemite cabins, tent cabins and standard rooms
- ADA accessible
- Free guest parking
- Shuttle access
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Multiple dining options
- Gift shop
- Ice skating rink
- Meadow grill
- Bicycle and raft rentals
- Coffee corner
- ATM machine
Housekeeping Camp
Is camping more your vibe? The Housekeeping Camp in the middle of the Valley is the perfect Yosemite destination for those who love camping but don’t want the hassle of setting up a tent.
Explore the natural beauty of Yosemite Park, relax by the Merced River and unwind around a warm fire with friends and family. That’s what you’ll get when you stay at the campgrounds of Housekeeping Camp.
The operating season starts around April and ends in October, depending on weather conditions.
Amenities:
- Comfortable sofas
- Woodstove
- Restrooms
- Equipment rentals available
- Two electrical outlets
Rush Creek Lodge
The perks of staying at Rush Creek Lodge are numerous — breathtaking views, luxurious amenities and access to an array of outdoor activities.
This national park lodging boasts a seasonal outdoor pool, two hot tubs and a children’s playground, making it an ideal family-friendly accommodation.
Each day a new adventure awaits: nature walks, biking trails, rock climbing, rafting and painting parties.
And because Yosemite activities work up a hearty appetite, the Rush Creek Lodge offers delicious dining options featuring local ingredients.
Amenities:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free parking
- Restaurant
- Fitness center
- Facilities for guests with disabilities
- Spa and wellness center
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
Evergreen Lodge
The Evergreen Lodge blends rustic allure with contemporary comfort, offering guests a truly unique and memorable stay.
The property offers a range of accommodation options, including standard rooms, cabins and family cottages.
You’ll also find an on-site restaurant and bar to fuel up with delicious food and drinks.
And when you’re ready, you can take a refreshing dip in the seasonal outdoor pool, relax in the hot tub, or challenge your friends and family to a game of pool or table tennis in the game room.
Amenities:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Free Wi-Fi
- Facilities for guests with disabilities
- Family rooms
- Playground
- Breakfast available
- Mini-market
- Outdoor fire pit
White Wolf Lodge
Tired of the crowds? The White Wolf Lodge — situated approximately 30 miles from Yosemite Valley — is the perfect destination.
With 24 canvas-tent cabins and four traditional wood cabins with private baths, you’ll get the chance to sleep under the stars and listen to the sounds of nature. Dreamy!
But the real draw of White Wolf Lodge is its serene location. You’ll find absolute tranquility nestled among towering trees and vast meadows.
Amenities:
- Beds, sheets, blankets and pillows
- Towels
- Wood-burning stove and firewood
- Morning and evening gatherings in the central dining room
Glacier Point Ski Hut
If you love winter adventure and breathtaking views, check in to the Glacier Point Ski Hut in the heart of the high Sierra Nevada region.
Guests love the cozy stone and log accommodations, which overlook Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the Yosemite High Country.
But the real highlight is the 10.5-mile guided ski trip, which takes visitors through the stunning Yosemite backcountry.
Pack your bags, grab your skis and get ready for an unforgettable winter getaway at the Glacier Point Ski Hut.
Amenities:
- Dining room
- Comfortable sofas
- Woodstove
- Restrooms
- Large bunk bed area that sleeps up to 20 people in a single room
- Free bus service from Yosemite Valley to Badger Pass Ski Area
- 24-hour hut keeper
Getting to Yosemite
Yosemite is on our radar as one of the most breathtaking national parks in the United States.
Lucky for you, it’s easily accessible from major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
You can take AMTRAK trains from major cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno, San Jose, San Francisco and Sacramento to Merced, where you can connect with YARTS buses for direct access to Yosemite Valley.
If you can’t find a route to suit you, use Skyscanner to hire a car and drive yourself. Simply enter the destination and dates you want to visit Yosemite and use our filters to find the best car rental deals.
Which entrance should you take?
Yosemite’s South Entrance is the most direct option for those traveling from Southern California. The closest towns to Yosemite’s South Entrance are Wawona and Fish Camp.
On the other hand, Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance is the quickest option for those traveling from San Francisco.
Enter Yosemite via Highway 120 through the Big Oak Flat or Hetch Hetchy entrance to explore the less-traveled paths and enjoy nature’s hidden gems.
Remember that some roads might be closed in the winter, including Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park, from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass).
Make the most of Yosemite
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds singing and the smell of fresh pine in the air. Step outside and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you take in the stunning views of Yosemite’s vast meadows, cascading waterfalls and towering trees.
Yosemite is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from it all and experience the beauty of nature. And with a bit of research and preparation, you can make the most of your time in Yosemite and create lasting memories.
You can count on Skyscanner to bring the world to you — from picking a destination to finding the best price. To make your entire booking experience to Yosemite easy and simple, try Skyscanner to find the best hotels, flights and car hire deals to explore the stunning beauty of Yosemite.
