Ideas For A Family Vacation In California

I made some of my favorite childhood memories under the Golden State’s warm sun. From theme parks and aquariums to beach days and iconic views, every family vacation in California becomes a story you’ll love sharing, even when the kids have kids of their own.

As a traveler with this famous state in my blood, I think the best family experiences come in four types: theme parks, nature adventures, coastal retreats and cinematic city views. If you’re visiting before or after a cruise, you should try to hit at least one spot in each category.

Here are my favorite ideas for family getaways in California.

Theme Parks And Unforgettable Fun

Belmont Park

Belmont Park is home to seven acres of rides, dining and beachfront fun. Teens will love the Insta-worthy photo ops and roller coasters, while younger kids will want to ride the park’s “Little Thrills” again and again … and again. (Sorry, parents.) Don’t forget to reward yourself with pretzels, ice cream and — if you need a grown-up minute — draft beers.

● Port: San Diego cruise port.

● Distance: 15 minutes by car.

● Ages: All.

Sesame Place

If you’re looking for young family vacation ideas in San Diego, don’t miss Sesame Place. Storytime with Big Bird, character dining and photo ops, shows and parades, kid-friendly rides — your little ones will be “sweepin’ the clouds away” all day.

The park operates on a seasonal schedule starting in spring 2026, so don’t forget to check availability. 

● Port: San Diego cruise port

● Distance: 30 minutes by car.

● Ages: 2-6.

Universal Studios

Universal Studios is easily one of the top family attractions in Los Angeles. It has themed lands, including Harry Potter and Super Mario Bros. areas, that make kids feel right at home with their favorite stories. Enjoy character sightings, thrill rides and chill rides, dining options for even the pickiest adventurers and plenty of spots to pick up fan-favorite souvenirs.

● Port: Los Angeles cruise port.

● Distance: A little over 1 hour by car.

● Ages: All, but generally more fun for older kids, teens and adults.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

There’s something for everyone at Six Flags Magic Mountain. From water slides and thrill rides to bumper cars, indoor playgrounds and even a kid-sized train depot, the whole family will find new favorites in this California wonderland. You can also snack, shop and park the kiddos in seats to take in a show while you rest your feet.

● Port: Los Angeles cruise port.

● Distance: 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

● Ages: All, but older kids and teens might find more to do.

Redwood Valley Railway

If your kids love trains, towering trees or selfie-worthy backdrops, this lovely little railway is for you. The Redwood Valley Railway is a miniature steam train ride that feels like a moment out of your favorite fantasy movie. It’s no rollercoaster, but it’s a great add-on for family-friendly vacations in California.

● Port: San Francisco cruise port.

● Distance: 30 minutes by car.

● Ages: All, but will likely appeal to the younger crowd; kids under 2 ride free.

Parks, Aquariums And Outdoor Adventures

San Diego Zoo

Kids of all ages will go wild for the San Diego Zoo. You can dine, shop and learn — but there are also interactive play areas, add-on experiences and one-of-a-kind opportunities for extra fees. Get the whole family excited ahead of time with the zoo’s live cams!

● Port: San Diego cruise port.

● Distance: 10 minutes by car.

● Tip: If your kids have other interests, consider the nearby Natural History Museum, Air and Space Museum or Automotive Museum.

Aquarium Of The Pacific

I’ll never forget the thrill of watching colorful lorikeets land on my hands, arms and head. That’s just one exhibit at the wild and wonderful Aquarium of the Pacific, where your little explorers can feed moon jellies, learn about conservation and try the new VR experience. (Don’t forget to say hi to the lorikeets for me!)

● Port: Los Angeles cruise port.

● Distance: 20 minutes by car.

● Tip: See if you can spot The Queen Mary docked nearby — the ship that brought my great-grandmother over from Scotland!

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is well worth the longer drive, especially if you’re an adventure-seeking family up for hiking, biking, rock-climbing and horseback riding.

● Port: San Francisco cruise port.

● Distance: 3.5 hours by car.

● Tip: Picnic areas are first-come, first-served — so plan carefully if you want a break and a snack.

Coastal Retreats

Santa Monica Beach

If you’re looking for family vacation ideas in Los Angeles, Santa Monica’s parks, pools and pier are beckoning. From tourist must-dos to local favorites, this place is a beachside bite out of SoCal life.

● Port: Los Angeles cruise port.

● Distance: 30 to 45 minutes by car.

● Tip: Bike-friendly streets make this the perfect cycling town for families.

Catalina Island

Catalina Island is an accessible island paradise that feels worlds away. Some spots are more geared toward luxury, so younger kids might not have as much fun — but teens are sure to love soaking up that VIP sun.

● Port: San Diego port.

● Distance: Up to 90 minutes by ferry; a 15-minute flight may also be available.

● Tip: Kids can still have a ball playing mini-golf, spotting wildlife or playing at arcades.

Crissy Field

Play at the beach, fly a kite, go for a bike ride or snap some family pictures — it’s all fair game at Crissy Field. You can even spot the iconic Golden Gate Bridge!

● Port: San Francisco port.

● Distance: 30 minutes by car.

● Tip: Make time for the House of Air Trampoline Park to burn off excess energy.

Cinematic City Adventures

Los Angeles And Hollywood

San Francisco

San Diego

Tips For Planning California Family Vacations

How To Plan A California Family Vacation

● Map it out: Think about travel times and how long you’ll spend at each destination. Don’t forget to leave extra buffers for shopping, snacking and photo ops.

● Plan a rest: If you have younger kids, it’s worthwhile to pick spots that let everyone take a breather in between adventures.

● Make it count: You may only have a few hours, so think about destinations that cater to everyone.

● Get opinions: Vacation planning can be a fun activity for the whole crew. Ask your kids what they’d like to see and do in California (and give them some realistic options to help narrow it down).

Top Family Vacations In California: Cruises

Cruising is a great way to bring the family together for thrills, chills and unforgettable moments. Better yet, California is known for bright sun and blue skies, making it the perfect place to kick off a cruise to destinations like Ensenada and Cabo. 

You can also cruise to California to wrap up your adventures with a day at iconic theme parks, aquariums or cities.

What Parts Of California Are Good For Families?

Southern California is a great spot for family vacations because it has so much to see and do. This includes cities like Anaheim, Los Angeles, Long Beach and San Diego. The area can get a little warm (and more than a little crowded) during the summer months, but there’s plenty of room to spread out and find your family’s niche. Northern California has some top family-friendly spots too, like iconic parts of San Francisco.

Quick Tips For Family Trips

● Take journals: All of my California family vacations live on in handwritten journals that the whole crew helped fill out.

● Pack snacks: Quick snacks like granola bars are great for refueling between high-energy adventures, especially at theme parks.

● Dress for fun: You don’t have to look like a Hollywood star every minute. I usually recommend prioritizing comfortable clothes and shoes for California vacations, especially if you’re trying to keep up with kiddos.

Build California Memories On A Family Cruise