Los Banos Travel Guide

Tourist 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 AU$190 per night from 16 Nov to 17 Nov
AU$190
16 Nov - 17 Nov
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! (1,007 reviews)
"I enjoyed my stay. I was assigned room 103. It was nice except for the screaming/crying children next door....or in the hallway...I was not sure."

Reviewed on 16 Oct 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 AU$203 per night from 21 Oct to 22 Oct
AU$203
21 Oct - 22 Oct
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! (771 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly spot, we felt very comfortable"

Reviewed on 28 Sept 2025

Best Western Executive Inn
Economy Inn

Economy Inn

2 out of 5
528 E Pacheco Blvd, Los Banos, CA
The price is AU$103 per night from 21 Oct to 22 Oct
AU$103
21 Oct - 22 Oct
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! (779 reviews)
"Good place for a short stop on an overnight stay. For the price it was fine."

Reviewed on 11 Oct 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.
Trabucco Trails - Stargaze near Yosemite

Trabucco Trails - Stargaze near Yosemite

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! (146 reviews)
"Awesome cabin, bigger in person for sure. A great place to stay out of the hustle and bustle of town even though you’re only 10mins out. Super clean and has everything you need! Michael is an awesome host and runs a great property!"

Reviewed on 14 Oct 2025

Trabucco Trails - Stargaze near Yosemite
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! (263 reviews)
"Comfortable place to stay. Nice to have 1.5 baths! Spacious upstairs bedroom with 1/2 bath."

Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025

Trabucco Gardens - Yosemite Gold Country Stargazing Retreat!
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! (316 reviews)
"Everything was absolutely amazing. Quiet. Private. Lots of beautiful birds and a couple cats. Fully. FULLY. stocked kitchen. Lots of extra blankets, towels and seating. Many extras for baby and children. Board games and books. We stayed for about a week. If you arrive at night look for the address ..."

Reviewed on 23 Sept 2025

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