The Best Family Vacation Spots in California
If you’re looking for a great California vacation spot that will please the whole family, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of some of the best family-friendly destinations in the Golden State. From theme parks to beaches to mountain towns, California has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for some fun! We’ll explore Northern California, Southern California, and the Central California Coast for the best California vacation ideas!
Here are our top California family vacation spots
Anaheim
No California vacation would be complete without a visit to the Happiest Place on Earth! The Disneyland Resort is perfect for families with small children, as there is so much to see and do. Plus, who doesn’t love meeting Mickey Mouse?
Read More: Fun Things to Do with Kids in Anaheim – California
San Diego
With its beautiful weather and endless activities, San Diego is a great choice for a family vacation. Spend your days exploring Balboa Park, relaxing on the beach, or visiting one of the city’s many museums. Other must see items on your list should be the famous San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego. There’s something for everyone in San Diego!
Read More: Fun Things to Do in San Diego With Kids
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a great destination for families who are looking for a relaxing vacation. Spend your days lounging by the pool, playing golf, or exploring the desert. There are also plenty of great restaurants and shopping options in Palm Springs.
Read more: Fun Things to Do With Kids in Palm Springs
Big Bear
Big Bear is a great choice for families who love the outdoors. In the winter, you can hit the slopes at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain. And in the summer, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. You can also go fishing, boating, or swimming in one of Big Bear’s many lakes.
Malibu
Malibu is the perfect California beach town. Spend your days relaxing on the beach, surfing, or exploring the many shops and restaurants.
Read More: Fun Things To Do in Malibu with Kids
Long Beach
Long Beach is a great California vacation spot for families who love the water. You can spend your days swimming, boating, or just relaxing on the beach.
Read More: Fun Things to Do With Kids In Long Beach
Lake Tahoe
If you’re looking for a more outdoor-focused California family vacation, head to Lake Tahoe. This beautiful spot offers plenty of opportunity for hiking, biking, and swimming. And in the winter, you can hit the slopes at one of the area’s many ski resorts.
Yosemite National Park
Another great option for nature lovers is Yosemite National Park. With its towering waterfalls and majestic mountains, Yosemite is a California must-see. Be sure to hike to the top of Half Dome for an unforgettable experience!
Monterey & Carmel
Monterey and Carmel offer a more relaxed California vacation experience. Spend your days strolling through Cannery Row, playing golf, or visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Then, head to Carmel-by-the-Sea for some shopping and dining.
Read More: Fun Things to Do With Kids in Monterey
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a California classic. This beautiful city offers plenty of shopping, dining, and cultural activities. And with its Mediterranean climate, it’s the perfect place to escape the heat in the summer.
Read More: Fun Things To Do With Kids In Santa Barbara
Idlewyld
This small town is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Spend your days exploring the many shops and galleries, or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. You can also enjoy the town’s small-town charm by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride or attending the weekly farmers market.
Carlsbad
Carlsbad is a great destination for families who love the beach. With its seven miles of coastline, there’s plenty of opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Carlsbad is also home to Legoland California, making it a hit with kids of all ages.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is the perfect California beach town. With its boardwalk, sandy beaches, and redwood forests, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. And don’t forget to ride the giant Ferris wheel on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!
Solvang
Solvang is a charming Danish town located in Santa Barbara County. This quaint town is the perfect place to sample Danish pastries, go shopping, or explore the many museums. Be sure to visit the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art, which offers a glimpse into Solvang’s Danish heritage.
Santa Monica
If you’re looking for a California beach family vacation with a little bit of everything, look no further than Santa Monica. With the Santa Monica Pier, Ferris wheel, and sandy beaches, Santa Monica is a California classic. And don’t forget to explore the many shops and restaurants along Santa Monica’s famous Third Street Promenade.
Read More: 15 Things To Do In Santa Monica With Kids
Pasadena
Pasadena is a great California family vacation spot for families who love the arts. With its many museums and theaters, Pasadena is a great place to learn and explore. And don’t forget to visit the Rose Bowl, one of California’s most iconic landmarks.
Catalina Island
Catalina is a beautiful island located off the coast of Los Angeles, just an one-hour ferry ride from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Orange County. This spot is perfect for families who love the outdoors, as there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. You can also go snorkeling, swimming, or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters.
Read more: Fun Things to Do With Kids in Catalina Island
Sacramento
Sacramento is California’s capital city, and it offers plenty of activities for families. Visit the California State Railroad Museum, go on a riverboat cruise, or explore Old Sacramento. You can also learn about California’s history at the California State Capitol Museum, or take a stroll through Sutter’s Fort.
Temecula
Temecula is a great choice for families who want to experience California’s wine country. There’s so much to do for families like exploring Old Town Temecula.
Read More: Fun Things to Do With Kids in Temecula
Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree is a great destination for families who love the outdoors. With its hiking trails and rock formations, Joshua Tree National Park is a California must-see. Located where the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert, come together.
San Francisco
Last but not least, no California family vacation would be complete without a visit to San Francisco. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz Island to Fisherman’s Wharf and the San Francisco Zoo, there are endless things to see and do in this amazing city. Be sure to add a cable car to your list of must-do activities.
Read More: Fun Things To Do With Your Kids In San Francisco
So what are you waiting for? California is calling! These family-friendly vacation spots will create memories that will last a lifetime. So start planning your trip today!
