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 ฿3,644 per night from 3 Aug to 4 Aug
฿3,644
฿4,008 total
3 Aug - 4 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Los Banos. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews)
"Near to all stores"

Reviewed on 16 Jul 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 ฿4,210 per night from 29 Jul to 30 Jul
฿4,210
฿4,631 total
29 Jul - 30 Jul
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 their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (744 reviews)
"We always stay at this hotel when we visit family in los banos Always able to check in early it’s always clean and beds are comfortable"

Reviewed on 27 Jul 2025

Best Western Executive Inn
Economy Inn

Economy Inn

2 out of 5
528 E Pacheco Blvd, Los Banos, CA
The price is ฿2,332 per night from 29 Jul to 30 Jul
฿2,332
฿2,565 total
29 Jul - 30 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Los Banos. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (749 reviews)
"Efficient spot to stay while passing through."

Reviewed on 25 Jul 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.
@ Marbella Lane - Alpaca Farm House l Pool

@ Marbella Lane - Alpaca Farm House l Pool

3 out of 5
Church Street 2912, Modesto, CA
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly cottage in Modesto. Enjoy free parking, private pools and a sauna. Popular attractions Rainbow Fields and Creekside Golf ...
@ Marbella Lane - Alpaca Farm House l Pool
4 Mi to San Joaquin River: Peaceful Patterson Home

4 Mi to San Joaquin River: Peaceful Patterson Home

3 out of 5
Patterson, CA
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Patterson. Enjoy free parking, patios and an in-room coffee maker. Popular attractions Floragold Park and Patterson Westley Historical ...
4 Mi to San Joaquin River: Peaceful Patterson Home
Bright + Cozy Mariposa Getaway: 46 Mi to Yosemite!

Bright + Cozy Mariposa Getaway: 46 Mi to Yosemite!

3 out of 5
Mariposa, CA
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly cottage in Mariposa. Enjoy free parking, patios and air conditioning. Popular attractions California State Mining and Mineral ...
"Hidden a little past Mariposa. Houses are spread out in the area. Very quiet and peaceful. I loved it."

Reviewed on 5 Aug 2024

Bright + Cozy Mariposa Getaway: 46 Mi to 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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