Santa Barbara to Yosemite

Question

Plan on visiting Santa Barbara then driving to Yosemite. Looking for recommendation's for best drive and place to stop along the way. We have reservations in Yosemite for next May. Also, thinking about visiting Sequoia National Park. Santa Barbara to Yosemite to Sequoia National Park. Any recommendations. Airports arriving Burbank airport - departing out of Fresno airport. Thank you.

Answer

Driving from Santa Barbara to Yosemite National Park offers several scenic options, depending on whether you prioritize speed, scenery, or points of interest along the way. In May, most of Yosemite’s main roads are open, but some higher elevation routes may still have snow, so it’s good to check road conditions before you leave.

The most straightforward route is via US-101 north to CA-41 through Oakhurst, which is one of the main entrances to Yosemite’s south side. This route is about 5.5–6 hours of driving without extended stops. If you prefer a more scenic drive and want to break up the trip, there are several great towns and sights along the way.

Santa Barbara to Solvang: About 45 minutes from Santa Barbara, Solvang is a charming Danish-style town with bakeries, shops, and a great spot for a morning coffee or brunch.
Solvang to Pismo Beach: About 1.5 hours from Solvang, Pismo Beach offers coastal views and a chance to stretch your legs with a walk on the pier or beach.
Midway stop in Fresno or Coarsegold: Depending on your pace, stopping in Fresno or Coarsegold is convenient for fuel, lunch, or a short rest before heading into the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Once you arrive in Yosemite, plan to spend at least a couple of full days to enjoy key highlights like Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. May is a great time for waterfalls, which are usually at peak flow.

If you also want to include Sequoia National Park in your itinerary, a logical route after Yosemite is to drive south via CA-41 to Fresno and then onward to Sequoia. The drive from Yosemite to Sequoia takes roughly 4–5 hours. This allows you to explore the Giant Forest, General Sherman Tree, and Moro Rock, among other sights.

Consider an overnight in Three Rivers, just outside Sequoia National Park, which provides easy access and lodging options.
If your flight departs from Fresno, you can finish your Sequoia visit and then drive about 1 hour to Fresno airport, making for a smooth departure.
Plan for early departures from Yosemite to maximize your time in Sequoia, as the park is large and the roads winding.

Overall, your route can look like this:

Santa Barbara → Solvang → Pismo Beach → Oakhurst/Yosemite (south entrance) → Yosemite Valley → Mariposa Grove → Glacier Point.
Yosemite → Fresno → Three Rivers → Sequoia National Park → Fresno airport for departure.

This plan balances driving, scenic stops, and time in the parks. Booking lodging early is essential, especially in May, as both Yosemite and Sequoia are popular spring destinations. Also, check for any park alerts or road closures prior to your trip to ensure a smooth journey.

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