The first time we drove into California with our kids strapped in the back seat, I had this moment of pure overwhelm. How do you even begin to tackle a state this massive, this diverse, this packed with bucket-list experiences? Do we head straight for the theme parks? Camp under the redwoods? Hit the beaches? Chase waterfalls in Yosemite? The answer, I’ve learned after multiple California trips, is that you can’t do it all in one go—and that’s actually a good thing. Because it means you get to come back.
California is legitimately one of the best family travel destinations on the planet. Whether your kids are thrill-seekers who live for roller coasters, nature lovers who want to hug giant trees, beach bums who could spend all day in the sand, or curious minds who light up at museums—California has something that’ll make their eyes go wide. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to choose just one type of vacation. You can combine beaches and theme parks, mountains and cities, desert landscapes and coastal drives, all in a single trip.
This guide covers the absolute best things to do in California with kids, from the famous attractions everyone talks about to hidden gems that’ll make your family trip unforgettable.
Theme Parks: Where California Dreams Come True
Disneyland Resort
Let’s start with the obvious one, because honestly, you can’t talk about California family vacations without mentioning Disneyland. This is where the magic literally lives. The first time I saw my daughter’s face light up when she met her favorite princess, I understood why parents save up for years to make this trip happen.
Disneyland in Anaheim isn’t just one park—it’s two (Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure), plus the Downtown Disney shopping and dining district. Plan for at least two full days if you want to hit the highlights without feeling rushed. Pro tip: arrive early, hit the big rides first, and take a midday break back at your hotel when the crowds peak and the California sun gets intense. Your kids will thank you, and you’ll avoid meltdowns.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter section deserves its own mention. Even if your kids haven’t read the books yet, the immersive detail of Hogsmeade village and the Hogwarts castle will blow their minds. And if you can swing it, grab Butterbeer—it’s essentially liquid nostalgia.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios is where movie magic meets roller coaster thrills. The Studio Tour alone is worth the price of admission—you’ll see actual movie sets, experience the Jaws attack, survive an earthquake, and maybe even catch a glimpse of filming in action. My kids still talk about the moment the shark lunged at our tram.
The Super Nintendo World is the newest addition, and if you have Mario-obsessed kids, prepare to spend hours here. The interactive elements (like collecting digital coins with your wristband) turn the whole area into a real-life video game.
Universal works well for a range of ages. Toddlers can enjoy the Despicable Me ride and character meet-and-greets, while older kids and teens will love the intense rides like The Mummy and Jurassic World. Just know that the park sits on a hillside, so there’s a lot of walking and escalators—bring comfortable shoes.
Other Theme Park Gems
LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad is perfect for kids ages 2-12. The driving school where kids get their own LEGO driver’s license is an absolute hit, and the Water Park (open in summer) is a great way to cool off. It’s less overwhelming than the bigger parks, which can actually be a relief if you have younger kids who get overstimulated easily.
Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park feels like stepping back in time. It started as a boysenberry farm and fried chicken restaurant, and you can still get the famous chicken dinner. Camp Snoopy is ideal for little ones, while Ghost Town and the other areas have plenty of thrills for older kids. It’s more laid-back than Disney or Universal, which some families prefer.
Beach Life: California’s Coastline is Unbeatable
Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Santa Monica Pier is iconic for a reason. The Ferris wheel, the roller coaster, the arcade games, the street performers—it’s sensory overload in the best possible way. The beach itself is beautiful, and there’s a playground right next to the pier that’s perfect for toddlers.
Just down the coast, Venice Beach offers a completely different vibe. The boardwalk is eclectic and artsy, with street performers, murals, and the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym. It’s a great spot for older kids who want to people-watch and soak in the quirky California culture. Rent bikes and cruise the boardwalk path—it’s one of those quintessentially California experiences.
Crystal Cove State Park
If you want a more natural beach experience, head to Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach. This place has everything: tide pools teeming with sea creatures, gentle surf for beginner swimmers, hiking trails through wooded canyons, and a historic district with adorable beach cottages.
We had lunch at The Beachcomber restaurant, which sits right on the sand. Watching my kids dig in the tide pools while I sipped coffee and watched the waves? That’s the kind of moment that makes you understand why people move to California and never leave.
Learning to Surf
Is there anything more California than learning to surf? Cowell’s Beach in Santa Cruz is famous for being beginner-friendly, with gentle waves and plenty of surf schools offering lessons. Even if your kids don’t stand up on the first try, they’ll have a blast paddling around and feeling like beach legends.
Other great beginner surf spots include Mondos Beach in Ventura and Bolinas, just north of San Francisco. Most lessons are around two hours, and many schools offer family packages. Fair warning: once your kids catch their first wave, they’re going to want to do it every single day.
Natural Wonders: California’s Wild Side
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is one of those places that looks like it can’t possibly be real. Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls—they’re so magnificent they almost feel like a movie set. And kids pick up on that awe. Even my usually indifferent tween put down his phone and just stared.
For families, focus on the Valley Floor where the most famous sights are concentrated. The hike to Lower Yosemite Falls is easy (one mile, paved, stroller-friendly) and incredibly rewarding. In late spring, the falls are thundering with snowmelt; by late summer, they slow to a trickle. Both are beautiful in different ways.
During peak season, you need a timed-entry permit booked in advance. Don’t skip this step—rangers will turn you away without one. And consider staying at Evergreen Lodge just outside the park. It’s a family paradise with activities, s’mores, and cozy cabins tucked into the forest.
Avenue of the Giants and the Redwoods
There’s something deeply humbling about standing next to a tree that’s been alive for over a thousand years. The Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile scenic drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and it’s one of the most spectacular drives you’ll ever do.
Make sure to stop at Founders Grove for an easy one-mile loop trail through the forest. Kids love the sense of scale—these trees are so massive you literally can’t see the tops. And yes, there are drive-through trees. Our minivan barely squeezed through, but the kids thought it was hilarious.
For a totally unique experience, head to Eureka and do the Redwood Sky Walk at Sequoia Park Zoo. You’re walking 100 feet above the ground through the tree canopy on suspended bridges. It’s thrilling but safe, and the perspective is unforgettable.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree feels like another planet. The twisted, alien-looking Joshua trees, the massive boulder formations, the endless desert sky—it’s unlike anywhere else in California. Kids love scrambling on the rocks, and the short nature trails are very doable for little legs.
Don’t miss Pioneertown nearby, a 1950s Old West movie set that’s still used for filming. It’s a fun, quirky stop that helps break up the desert scenery with some playful history.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen is California’s answer to Yellowstone, and it’s criminally underrated. Bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, turquoise hot springs—it’s like the earth is putting on a show just for you. The Bumpass Hell Trail is a gentle three-mile hike that takes you past all the volcanic features, and even young kids can handle it.
In summer, Manzanita Lake is perfect for swimming and paddling. In winter, you can do guided snowshoe tours. And don’t forget to grab a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center—kids complete activities throughout the park and earn a badge.
Cities With Kid Appeal
San Francisco
San Francisco is surprisingly kid-friendly once you know where to go. Riding the iconic cable cars is a must—yes, they’re crowded and touristy, but kids absolutely love the thrill of hanging off the side as you climb those steep hills. Get there early or be prepared to wait in line.
The Exploratorium is hands-down one of the best science museums in the country. It’s completely interactive—kids can build circuits, step inside a tornado, explore optical illusions, and conduct hundreds of experiments. We spent four hours there and could have stayed longer.
Fisherman’s Wharf has the sea lions at Pier 39, which never gets old. And if you’re up for it, take a ferry to Alcatraz. Kids aged 5 and up can handle it, especially with the audio tour that tells the dramatic stories of famous inmates and escape attempts. Grab the Junior Ranger scavenger hunt at the info desk to keep them engaged.
San Diego
San Diego might just be the most family-friendly city in California. The San Diego Zoo is world-class—100 acres, 4,000 animals, and the SkyFari Aerial Tram that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the whole place. Arrive early, wear comfy shoes, and accept that you probably won’t see everything in one day.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is even bigger and more immersive. You can take a safari truck through African and Asian habitats where animals roam (relatively) freely. It’s the closest thing to an actual safari without leaving the country.
Add in the USS Midway Museum (a real aircraft carrier you can explore), LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, and some of the best beaches in California, and you’ve got enough to fill an entire week-long vacation. For more ideas on making the most of family time, check out these summer activities for kids that work beautifully in San Diego’s year-round sunshine.
Unique California Experiences
Catalina Island
Catalina Island earned the nickname “Kidalina” because it’s so perfectly set up for families. You reach it by ferry from several coastal cities, and once you’re there, cars are basically non-existent. Golf carts and walking are the main modes of transportation, which kids think is incredibly cool.
You can spot wild bison (yes, really—they were brought over for a movie in the 1920s and never left), snorkel in crystal-clear waters, zipline over canyons, and stuff yourselves with saltwater taffy. It’s a mini-vacation within your California vacation.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium consistently ranks as one of the best aquariums in the world. The kelp forest exhibit is mesmerizing—a three-story tank with swaying kelp and darting fish. The jellyfish displays look like living art. And the sea otter feeding time draws crowds for good reason (otters are ridiculously cute).
While you’re in Monterey, walk along Cannery Row and visit Fisherman’s Wharf. The whole area has a charming, historic vibe that feels relaxed compared to the busier SoCal destinations.
Whale Watching
California’s coast is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can see blue whales (the largest animals on Earth) in summer and fall, gray whales in winter and spring, and dolphins year-round.
Tours depart from Monterey, San Diego, Newport Beach, Dana Point, and several other coastal cities. Most tours are around 2-3 hours, so plan accordingly with snacks and motion sickness prevention if your kids are prone to it. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the California coast is a critical migration corridor, making sightings very likely during peak seasons.
Columbia State Historic Park
Step back in time at this perfectly preserved Gold Rush town. Kids can pan for gold (and actually find little flakes and gems), ride in a horse-drawn carriage, watch a blacksmith work, and explore historic buildings. Docents dress in 1850s clothing and really lean into the role.
It’s educational without feeling like school, which is the sweet spot for family activities. And the homemade candy shop is dangerous—in the best way.
Making the Most of Your California Trip
Planning Tips
California is huge—like, drive-for-12-hours-and-still-be-in-California huge. Don’t try to do everything. Pick a region (Southern California beach towns, San Francisco and wine country, the Sierra Nevada mountains, etc.) and dive deep. You’ll have a better experience with less driving stress.
Consider the season. Summer is peak tourist season with the best weather, but the biggest crowds and highest prices. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter brings snow to the mountains, which opens up skiing and snowboarding options.
For road trips, break up long drives with quirky stops. Visit a classic American diner for pancakes and milkshakes. Stop at roadside fruit stands. Let kids pick one random attraction along the way. These unplanned moments often become the stories they remember most.
Where to Stay
California has incredibly diverse accommodation options. Beach resorts, mountain cabins, quirky Airbnbs (like railroad cars or geodesic domes), family ranches, and proximity-to-theme-parks hotels. Choose based on your family’s priorities—do you want a home base with a pool where kids can unwind, or are you more focused on location and quick park access?
Many families love staying in vacation rentals because having a kitchen saves money and sanity. Making breakfast and packing snacks means not every meal has to be a restaurant production.
Budgeting Wisely
California can be expensive, especially the theme parks. Look for multi-day tickets or combo passes that bring the per-day cost down. Pack snacks and refillable water bottles—hydration is key in the California sun, and park food adds up fast.
Free or low-cost activities abound: beaches, hiking trails, exploring quirky neighborhoods, visiting farmers’ markets, and stopping at roadside attractions. Balance the splurges (Disneyland) with the free stuff (Crystal Cove State Park) to keep your budget in check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit California with kids?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best combination of good weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices. Summer is peak season with guaranteed sunshine but big crowds everywhere. Winter is great for skiing in the mountains and still pleasant in Southern California, though some coastal areas can be chilly and rainy.
How many days do you need for a California family vacation?
It really depends on what you want to see. A focused trip to Southern California (San Diego, beaches, Disneyland) can work in 5-7 days. A road trip along the coast or a combination of cities and national parks benefits from 10-14 days. Remember, California is roughly the size of Japan—you can’t see it all in one trip.
Is California safe for families?
Yes, California is very family-friendly and safe for tourists. Stick to well-traveled areas, use common sense about belongings in cities, and be aware of your surroundings. The state has extensive family infrastructure, from child-friendly restaurants to family restrooms to helpful locals who are used to tourists. For safety tips and family-friendly ideas, the American Academy of Pediatrics offers travel guidance for families.
What should we pack for a California trip with kids?
Layers are key—California weather can swing from chilly mornings to hot afternoons. Pack sunscreen (the sun is strong), comfortable walking shoes, reusable water bottles, and a light jacket. If you’re visiting beaches, bring rash guards for kids to prevent sunburn. For theme parks, pack snacks, portable phone chargers, and a small backpack for essentials.
Can you do both beaches and mountains in one California trip?
Absolutely! Southern California makes this especially easy—you can be at the beach in the morning and skiing in Big Bear by afternoon. Or combine coastal Big Sur with Yosemite. Just be realistic about drive times and don’t pack your itinerary too tightly, especially with kids who need downtime.
Final Thoughts: California is Worth Every Mile
After multiple California trips with our kids, I can say with certainty: this state delivers. Whether you’re chasing Disney dreams, introducing your kids to the majesty of giant sequoias, teaching them to surf, or just building sandcastles on a perfect beach, California has a way of making family memories that stick.
The beauty of California is that it grows with your family. Toddlers love the gentle beaches and character meet-and-greets. Elementary-aged kids thrive at the interactive museums and nature adventures. Tweens and teens want the thrill rides and surf lessons. There’s no wrong age to visit—just different experiences that suit each stage.
So start planning, bookmark this guide, and get ready for a California adventure your family will talk about for years. And if you’re looking for more ways to make travel and everyday life more fun, check out these fun activities for kids, road trip games for kids, and tips on keeping everyone entertained with conversation starters for kids during those long drives.