Sentinel Beach Picnic Area — Attraction in Oakhurst

This is another hidden jewel that I had missed in the previous a dozen visits of Yosemite NP, part of the reason is that it is overshadowed by two bigger iconic names El Capitan and Half Dome. I particularly liked the stream and a big shallow pond there, when you dipped your toes in the water, it’s so cool and so cold, but after a while, it was just so refreshing and rejuvenating on a hot summer day! The sand was not in a very fine granularity, but you had the best view of Sentinel rocks and cliffs towering above you, some families with very young children really enjoyed the beach and water. I just sat there heads up for over half an hour, doing nothing! You could also see Upper Yosemite Falls in the distance! Really great place for a picnic, which will be my next trip...

A lovely picnic spot with great views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. There is a bridge across the Merced River, a large meadow to stroll in, and one can walk right to the river and dip ones toes in it. A number of picnic tables and benches and restrooms. Parking...

This is a wonderful place for picnics and for kids. The water can be calm enough to allow for kids to wade in without difficulty. Picnic tables are placed mostly in the shade, but the beach is exposed most of the day. This is a wonderful place to relax in...