There's no need to look any further for summer vacation inspiration — we've got the perfect list of trips to take your kid in California! From theme parks to beaches to the great outdoors, we've got something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable California summer vacation.
1. Disneyland
First up on our list is Disneyland! This world-famous theme park is a must-visit for any family looking for a fun-filled summer vacation. With attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and the Mad Tea Party, Disneyland has something for kids of all ages. And don't forget about the delicious food options and shopping opportunities available throughout the park!
Where to stay:
When it comes to Disneyland California, there are plenty of places to stay to make your vacation perfect. You can find everything from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly motels, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
If you're looking for a luxurious and convenient option, the Disneyland Resort Hotel is a great choice. This resort is located right on the property of Disneyland California, and it offers a range of amenities such as a pool, restaurants, and a spa.
For a more affordable option, the Anaheim Desert Inn and Suites is a great choice. This motel is located close to the Disneyland Resort, and it offers free parking and Wi-Fi. It's also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along on your vacation.
2. The Beach
If your family is looking for a relaxing summer vacation, a day at the beach is the perfect option. California is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, so you're sure to find one that fits your needs. From the rocky shores of Point Lobos to the wide-open expanses of Santa Monica Beach, there's a beach for everyone in California.
If you're looking for a breathtaking view, consider heading to Point Lobos State Reserve in Carmel-by-the-Sea. This park is known for its dramatic ocean cliffs and pounding surf. You can explore the tide pools, go for a hike, or just relax on the beach and take in the view.
If you're looking for a more lively beach scene, head to Santa Monica Beach. This famous beach is home to miles of sand, restaurants, and shops. It's also a great spot for people watching and swimming.
If you're looking for a more secluded beach, consider Malibu Lagoon State Beach. This beach is tucked away in a quiet cove and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
No matter what you're looking for, California has a beach that's perfect for you. So grab your sunscreen and head for the coast!
3. The Sierra Nevada Mountains
If your family loves the great outdoors, a trip to the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a must-do this summer. With towering peaks, pristine lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails, the Sierra Nevada Mountains offer something for everyone. And when you're done exploring the great outdoors, be sure to check out one of the charming mountain towns that dot the area.
4. The Golden Gate Bridge
No trip to California is complete without a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge. This iconic bridge is a must-see for any visitor to the state, and offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you're walking across the bridge, biking across it, or driving across it, the Golden Gate Bridge is a sight you'll never forget.
5. The Hollywood Sign
Another must-see attraction in California is the Hollywood Sign. This iconic sign is a symbol of Hollywood and the movie industry, and offers amazing views of the Los Angeles skyline. Whether you're visiting Los Angeles or just driving by on the freeway, be sure to stop and take a picture of this Hollywood landmark.
6. Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is another must-visit destination for families in California. With rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, Universal Studios is sure to please kids of all ages. Be sure to check out the new Harry Potter-inspired area, which is sure to be a hit with fans of the books and movies.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a great place to visit for families in California. With rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, Universal Studios is sure to please kids of all ages. Some of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the new Fast and Furious – Supercharged ride, and the Simpson’s Ride.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a themed area based on the popular Harry Potter books and movies. It features a number of rides and attractions, including the Hogwarts Express train, the Flight of the Hippogriff roller coaster, and the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is sure to be a hit with fans of the books and movies.
The new Fast and Furious – Supercharged ride is a new addition to Universal Studios Hollywood. It is a high-speed, action-packed ride based on the popular Fast and Furious movies. The ride is sure to please thrill seekers of all ages.
The Simpsons Ride is another popular attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood. It is a motion simulator ride based on the popular TV show, The Simpsons. The ride is sure to be a hit with fans of the show.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a great place to visit for families in California. With rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, Universal Studios is sure to please kids of all ages. Be sure to check out the new Harry Potter-inspired area, which is sure to be a hit with fans of the books and movies.
Where to stay:
There are a variety of places to stay when visiting Universal studios Hollywood, from luxury resorts to budget motels. Here are some of the best places to stay near the theme park:
The Universal Hilton
The Hilton is a luxurious hotel located right next to the theme park. It offers guests a variety of amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel is also within walking distance of many restaurants and shops.
The Sheraton Universal
The Sheraton Universal is another great option for guests looking for a luxurious stay near the theme park. It offers a variety of on-site amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel is also within walking distance of several restaurants and shops.
The Holiday Inn
The Holiday Inn is a great option for guests looking for a budget-friendly stay near the theme park. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a fitness center. It is also within walking distance of several restaurants and shops.
The Best Western
The Best Western is another great option for guests looking for a budget-friendly stay near the theme park. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a pool and a fitness center. It is also within walking distance of several restaurants and shops.
7. Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is a California classic, and a must-visit destination for families. With its iconic Ferris wheel, games, and restaurants, the pier is the perfect place to spend a sunny day. Kids will also love the beach which is just a short walk away.
The Santa Monica Pier is a California classic, and a must-visit destination for families. With its iconic Ferris wheel, games, and restaurants, the pier is the perfect place to spend a sunny day. Kids will also love the beach which is just a short walk away.
There are plenty of things to do on the pier, so it's perfect for visitors of all ages. The Ferris wheel is a must-ride, and offers stunning views of the ocean and the city. There are also a variety of games available, including classic carnival games like ring toss and darts. And be sure to check out the local restaurants, which offer a wide range of cuisines from Mexican to sushi.
The Santa Monica Pier is also a great place to take a walk or bike ride. The pier is over a mile long, and offers a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. There's also a bike path that runs along the beach, so it's the perfect place for a family bike ride.
If you're looking for a fun day out with the family, the Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit. With something for everyone, it's the perfect place to spend a sunny day.
8. Golden Gate National Recreation Area
If your family loves the great outdoors, then a trip to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a must. This massive park offers something for everyone, from hiking and biking trails to beaches and picnicking areas. Be sure to check out the Golden Gate Bridge while you're in the area.
If your family loves spending time outdoors, a trip to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a must. This massive park offers something for everyone, from hiking and biking trails to beaches and picnicking areas. The Golden Gate Bridge is also a must-see when you're in the area.
9. LEGOLAND California
If your kids are fans of LEGO bricks, then LEGOLAND California is a must-visit destination. This theme park is filled with rides, attractions, and LEGO displays, including a life-sized LEGO model of San Francisco.
Kids of all ages will have a blast at LEGOLAND California Resort, where they can explore the theme park’s LEGO-themed rides, attractions, and displays. Here are just a few of the highlights:
The Dragon Ride is a kid-friendly roller coaster that takes passengers through a medieval-themed kingdom made entirely of LEGO bricks.
For a more thrilling experience, check out the LEGOLAND California coaster rides, such as The Great LEGO Race, which is a virtual reality roller coaster that takes riders on a wild race through LEGOLAND.
In addition to coasters, the park offers a variety of other rides, including boat rides, car rides, and even a LEGO-themed water park.
The highlight of any visit to LEGOLAND is the park’s LEGO displays. One of the most popular is a life-sized replica of San Francisco, made entirely of LEGO bricks. Other displays include a LEGO version of the Empire State Building, a pirate-themed island, and a LEGO Miniland where visitors can see miniature recreations of some of the world’s most famous landmarks.
LEGOLAND California Resort is the perfect destination for families who love LEGO bricks. With its variety of rides and attractions, plus its amazing LEGO displays, there’s something for everyone at this world-famous theme park.
Where to stay:
If you're looking for a place to stay near Legoland California Resort, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to stay depending on your budget and needs:
If you're looking for a hotel that's close to the park, the Legoland Hotel is the obvious choice. It's located right next to the entrance to the park and offers a special "door-to-park" experience for guests. The hotel has themed rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, there are several hotels located within a few miles of the park. The Best Western Plus Posada Royale Inn & Suites is a good option if you're looking for a hotel with a pool and free breakfast. The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is also a good option, especially if you're looking for a hotel with a free shuttle to the park.
If you're looking for a vacation rental, there are plenty of options available near Legoland California Resort. The Resort at Pajaro Dunes is a popular option, as is the Pajaro Dunes Vacation Rentals. Both of these resorts offer full kitchens, laundry facilities, and more.
We hope you enjoyed our list of kid-friendly vacations in California!
Xx The Simple Wishes Team
