Wawona Hotel - Yosemite National Park
A historic Victorian-era hotel located near the park's South Gate, offering a charming and tranquil escape. Surrounded by meadows and forests, it's a peaceful spot where guests can often see mule deer grazing and various bird species, providing a classic Yosemite nature experience.
- Location
- Yosemite National Park, California Sierra & Deserts, United States, North America
- Type
- hotel
- Coordinates
- 37.535000, -119.655000
- Phone
- (888) 413-8869
- Website
- https://www.travelyosemite.com/lodging/wawona-hotel/
- Activities
- Fishing, Spa
- Amenities
- Swimming Pool, Pool, Spa, Wifi, Wi-Fi, Internet, Dining, Bar, Lounge, Library, Conference
- Child-friendly
- Yes
- Pool/Spa
- Available
- Tank Filling
- mid-range
PlnrScore: 43/100
Community
school; health
Best Time to Visit Wawona Hotel
The best months to visit Wawona Hotel are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Poor, temperature -5.64°C, rainfall 175.6mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 63.4%
- February: Good, temperature -5.55°C, rainfall 116.9mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 61.8%
- March: Poor, temperature -5.31°C, rainfall 200.9mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 68.7%
- April: Good, temperature -0.9°C, rainfall 68.4mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 64.6%
- May: Good, temperature 3.13°C, rainfall 40mm, sunshine 13.1 hrs, humidity 64%
- June: Great, temperature 10.31°C, rainfall 26.7mm, sunshine 13.5 hrs, humidity 52.4%
- July: Great, temperature 15.71°C, rainfall 18.1mm, sunshine 13.7 hrs, humidity 41.1%
- August: Great, temperature 14.18°C, rainfall 26.8mm, sunshine 12.9 hrs, humidity 43.9%
- September: Great, temperature 11.13°C, rainfall 19.4mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 46%
- October: Great, temperature 5.86°C, rainfall 41.3mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 46%
- November: Good, temperature -2.53°C, rainfall 85mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 56%
- December: Poor, temperature -4.63°C, rainfall 230.1mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 62.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
We're planning a family trip to Wawona Hotel. What's the best way to keep our kids entertained beyond just enjoying the meadows?
While the natural beauty is a huge draw, we love that Wawona offers more structured fun. The hotel often has ranger programs specifically for children, and we highly recommend packing some nature scavenger hunt lists. Don't forget fishing gear; the Merced River nearby is perfect for a relaxed afternoon casting lines with the little ones.
We've heard Wawona Hotel is historic. What should we expect in terms of modern amenities versus its vintage charm?
You're right, Wawona feels like stepping back in time, and that's precisely its appeal. We adore the sense of history, but be prepared for a more classic hotel experience. While comfortable and clean, rooms don't have televisions or air conditioning, relying instead on ceiling fans and the cool mountain air. Embrace the quiet and the timeless elegance; it's a refreshing change.
What's the absolute best season to visit Wawona Hotel for the most quintessential Yosemite experience?
For us, late spring and early summer, from May through June, is unbeatable. The wildflowers are in full bloom in the meadows surrounding the hotel, the waterfalls in Yosemite Valley are at their most powerful, and the weather is generally pleasant for exploring. We find the light for photography during these months to be absolutely sensational.
We're hoping to spot some wildlife from Wawona Hotel. What are our best chances and what should we be looking out for?
Mule deer are practically residents here, often seen grazing peacefully in the meadows right outside the hotel, especially at dawn and dusk. We also love listening for the diverse bird calls echoing through the pines. Keep your eyes peeled for squirrels and chipmunks too; they're always around and add to the charming atmosphere.
We're considering a spa treatment at Wawona Hotel. Can you give us a sense of the experience and what to expect?
The spa at Wawona is a true sanctuary, offering a wonderfully tranquil escape. We recommend booking treatments in advance, especially during peak season. The massages are deeply relaxing, and the serene setting, with views of the surrounding forest, makes the entire experience feel incredibly restorative and luxurious.
Other Safari Lodges in Yosemite National Park
Parks in California Sierra & Deserts
- Death Valley National Park - 13650 km²
- Kings Canyon National Park - 1869 km²
- Point Reyes National Seashore - 287 km²
- Sequoia National Park - 1635 km²