Best Family Vacation Ideas in California
California is one of the best destinations in the U.S. for families, offering everything from exciting theme parks and sunny beaches to national parks and vibrant cities. Having explored the state, I’ve found that California has a little something for everyone, making it perfect for unforgettable family vacations.
I’ve enjoyed kid-friendly attractions full of adventure, scenic outdoor escapes where families can connect with nature, and cultural experiences that bring learning to life. From coastal getaways to mountain adventures and big-city fun, California has no shortage of amazing family vacation ideas. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Easy Waves and a Warm Table in Redondo Beach
We drove to Redondo Beach from LA (a 30-minute drive). The beach town was very relaxing, a sharp contrast to LA.
One of my favorite family vacation ideas in California has to be Redondo Beach, a hidden gem tucked along the South Bay near Los Angeles. It feels like the absolute best mix of coastal charm, family-friendly fun, and a laid-back SoCal vibe that makes every getaway feel magical.
We loved strolling along the iconic Redondo Beach Pier, which is full of cool eateries, unusual shops, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. I thought it was such an underrated spot compared to Santa Monica or Venice, yet it offered the same joyful energy without the overwhelming crowds.
Our kids had the best time watching sea lions, flying kites, and even trying out paddleboarding in the calm waters of King Harbor. It felt like the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it one of the coolest family destinations we’ve discovered.
I found that the beach itself was wide, clean, and perfect for both sandcastle building and quiet afternoon naps under an umbrella. The sunsets were nothing short of dreamy, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink that I’ll never forget.
Another highlight was the affordable, family-friendly restaurants serving fresh seafood—our favorite was a casual spot where we devoured fish tacos while gazing at sailboats gliding past. It was simple, vibrant, and unforgettable.
Being so close to Los Angeles, we could easily pair this coastal escape with a short drive to Hollywood or Disneyland, making it the best choice for families looking for variety. For me, Redondo Beach is an exceptional, underrated treasure and an amazing California vacation idea.
Check prices at Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina.
2. Studio Magic and Small Surprises in Burbank
We drove 20 minutes north from downtown Los Angeles to Burbank. The city feels like Hollywood’s backstage pass. ChatGPT said:
When I think of planning a fun family trip in California, Burbank instantly comes to mind. Nestled near Los Angeles, this vibrant city felt like a cool mix of entertainment magic and small-town charm, which made it one of my favorite underrated gems for a joyful getaway.
We explored the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and I can honestly say it was one of the most exciting and unique family experiences ever. Walking on real sets and seeing behind-the-scenes movie magic felt both unusual and spectacular, and the kids couldn’t stop smiling.
I loved how affordable and convenient Burbank was compared to staying in the heart of Hollywood. We were close enough to enjoy LA attractions, but at the same time, we got to relax in a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere that felt like a brilliant idea for a balanced trip.
Downtown Burbank quickly became one of our favorite spots. We wandered through cool shops, grabbed ice cream, and enjoyed outdoor movie nights in the plaza—it was such a vibrant and joyful experience that I’ll always remember.
The food scene also won me over. From casual diners with awesome burgers to unique cafes serving fresh, local flavors, we found plenty of affordable options that felt like a hidden culinary gem.
What made it even more amazing was how close Burbank was to Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo, and even Universal Studios Hollywood. For me, Burbank is not just convenient—it’s an exceptional and underrated California destination that turned into one of our coolest family adventures yet.
3. Outlets, Orchards and Open Skies in Camarillo
We drove 25 minutes south from Ventura to Camarillo.
Camarillo surprised me with how joyful and underrated it felt as a family-friendly California escape. Tucked between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, this charming town had a cool, laid-back atmosphere that made our trip feel both relaxing and exciting at the same time.
We loved wandering through the Camarillo Premium Outlets, where I found amazing deals on favorite brands—it turned shopping into an adventure for everyone. The vibrant energy of the outlets paired with the affordability made it a hidden gem that I didn’t expect to enjoy so much.
One of my favorite experiences was exploring the nearby hiking trails with sweeping views of rolling hills and citrus groves. The scenery felt so unique and refreshing, and it gave us a chance to balance city fun with the magic of nature.
I also thought the old-town area was such a cool spot, filled with interesting little shops, local restaurants, and a joyful community vibe. We discovered an affordable taco place that instantly became a family favorite, and I still think about those flavors.
The aviation museum was another highlight for us. It was unusual, educational, and exciting all at once, with vintage planes and interactive exhibits that made the kids feel like they were stepping back into history.
What made Camarillo even more spectacular was its location—just a short drive to Malibu beaches, Santa Barbara’s wine country, and even Channel Islands adventures. For me, Camarillo turned out to be an exceptional and often overlooked destination that combined affordability, fun, and memorable family experiences.
4. Desert Skies and Big Spaces in Palmdale
I drove an hour north from Los Angeles over the San Gabriel Mountains.
Palmdale gave me one of the most unusual and exciting family trips I’ve had in Southern California. Tucked in the Antelope Valley, just north of Los Angeles, it felt like a hidden gem where desert landscapes, vibrant community spaces, and cool attractions all came together in one joyful getaway.
We spent a day at DryTown Water Park, and it was such an awesome, affordable way to cool off in the desert heat. The slides, lazy river, and splash zones kept the kids laughing nonstop, and I loved that it felt both safe and fun for everyone.
Another highlight for me was visiting the Blackbird Airpark. Seeing real aircraft up close, including historic spy planes, was such a unique and underrated experience—it felt exciting to share that history with the kids, and they couldn’t believe the size of the jets.
I also enjoyed strolling through Palmdale’s Rancho Vista Golf Club area, which was peaceful, scenic, and gave us a chance to relax after the busier parts of our trip. It was one of those cool finds that made me appreciate the mix of city and open space here.
Food was another pleasant surprise. We found vibrant local spots serving everything from authentic Mexican tacos to hearty diners, and the affordability made dining out a joyful part of our stay.
What really made Palmdale special was its location—close enough to Los Angeles for a quick drive, yet surrounded by wide-open skies, mountain views, and desert trails. For me, it was an exceptional, underrated California destination that turned into a memorable family adventure.
5. Date Shakes and Desert Light in Indio
We drove 30 minutes east from Palm Springs to Indio, a desert city best known as the “City of Festivals.”
Indio instantly felt like one of those underrated California gems that turned our family trip into something truly unique. Nestled in the Coachella Valley near Palm Springs, it’s known for its festivals, but I discovered it has so much more magic to offer for a joyful and exciting getaway.
We started at the Coachella Valley History Museum, and I loved how unusual and interesting it was to step into historic homes, see old farming equipment, and even explore the world’s only date museum. It made the kids curious and gave me a fresh appreciation for the region’s heritage.
Our afternoons were spent at Shields Date Garden, which quickly became one of my favorite stops. We sipped on their famous date shakes, walked the peaceful garden trails, and enjoyed the vibrant, relaxing atmosphere that felt like a hidden oasis.
I thought the family parks in Indio were spectacular. Miles Avenue Park, with its playgrounds, open spaces, and splash pad, gave us an affordable and joyful place to unwind together. Watching the kids run around under the desert sun was such a cool and heartwarming memory.
Food was another highlight—Indio has some amazing Mexican restaurants that felt both authentic and affordable. Sharing tacos and enchiladas with my family while surrounded by the lively local scene was one of my favorite parts of the trip.
What made Indio even more exceptional was its location—close to Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Desert, and all the excitement of Palm Springs. For me, Indio was an amazing and often overlooked destination that gave us a vibrant mix of culture, food, and family fun.
6. College Town Calm in Claremont
We drove 40 minutes east from Los Angeles to Claremont, a leafy college town at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Claremont, California, quickly won me over with its small-town charm and vibrant energy, making it feel like a hidden gem tucked just east of Los Angeles. Known as the “City of Trees,” it gave our family trip an unusual mix of nature, culture, and joyful experiences that felt truly refreshing.
We loved wandering through the Claremont Village, which was full of unique shops, cozy cafés, and family-friendly restaurants. It had such a cool and welcoming vibe, and I thought it was the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy simple moments together.
One of my favorite discoveries was the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden (now called California Botanic Garden). The trails were vibrant with native plants, and walking among blooming wildflowers felt like stepping into a spectacular desert dream. It was both educational and magical for the kids.
I also thought the Claremont Colleges added something unusual and interesting to the city. The campuses were beautiful to stroll through, with leafy courtyards, historic buildings, and art exhibits that made our visit feel both inspiring and affordable.
Another highlight was hiking in the nearby Claremont Hills Wilderness Park. The views of the San Gabriel Mountains were spectacular, and the trails felt like a brilliant idea for a family adventure without straying too far from town.
For me, Claremont offered an exceptional balance—it was close to Los Angeles attractions yet felt worlds away in its peaceful, tree-lined setting. It turned out to be an underrated California treasure, giving us a joyful and memorable family getaway filled with nature, culture, and community warmth.
7. Santa Barbara - Shorelines, Sunshine & Sharing Plates
We caught the FlixBus from Union Station and rolled into Santa Barbara for as little as $16 one-way, taking just under two hours, a real wallet-saver. For a chill coastal ride, I’ve also hopped the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner (fares usually start around $25–$30, and it delivers sweeping ocean views in about 2.5 hours). Buses win for cost, trains win for the scenery, and both drop you right into Santa Barbara without a fuss.
Santa Barbara felt like a dream getaway the moment we arrived, with its vibrant Spanish-style architecture, palm-lined streets, and sparkling Pacific coastline. Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the ocean, this gem instantly became one of my favorite places for a joyful family escape.
We started at Stearns Wharf, and I loved how unusual and exciting it was to see sea life exhibits, eat fresh seafood, and watch sailboats drift across the harbor. It felt both magical and affordable, with plenty of fun for everyone.
One of the coolest experiences was visiting the Santa Barbara Zoo. It was the perfect size for families, offering close-up encounters with giraffes and lions in a setting that felt vibrant and full of charm. The kids couldn’t stop talking about it afterward!
I also adored strolling down State Street, where we found unique boutiques, lively cafés, and outdoor patios buzzing with energy. It was an exceptional mix of culture, shopping, and entertainment that kept us busy without ever feeling rushed.
The beaches, though, were my absolute favorite. East Beach had a joyful atmosphere with volleyball nets and bike rentals, while Butterfly Beach felt like an underrated, romantic stretch of sand where the sunsets were simply spectacular. I could have stayed there for hours.
Food was another highlight—whether it was affordable taco stands or upscale seafood with ocean views, Santa Barbara served up flavors that made every meal memorable. For me, this city is an amazing California treasure that blends coastal magic, culture, and family fun in the most unforgettable way.
8. Los Angeles: Murals, Museums and Great Sandwiches
We drove 2 hours north from San Diego to Los Angeles, trading laid-back surf towns for the buzz of California’s biggest city.
Los Angeles has always felt like an exciting dream destination to me, full of magic, energy, and so many unique experiences that it’s hard to choose a favorite. Every time we visit, I discover something new, and that’s what makes it such an underrated yet spectacular city for a joyful getaway.
We started in Hollywood, walking along the Walk of Fame and peeking inside the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. It was such a cool experience to stand where movie legends once stood, and the kids thought it was awesome spotting their favorite stars’ names on the sidewalk.
One of my favorite highlights was Griffith Observatory. The panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign felt absolutely breathtaking, and exploring the exhibits inside was both unusual and inspiring. It’s one of those affordable, family-friendly gems I could return to again and again.
I also loved Santa Monica and Venice Beach, where the vibrant boardwalks, street performers, and spectacular sunsets created pure magic. Riding bikes along the coast felt both joyful and relaxing, giving us the perfect balance of fun and calm.
Food, though, completely stole the show for me. From vibrant taco trucks to rooftop dining, the flavors were unforgettable. One afternoon, we made a stop at the legendary Langer’s Delicatessen downtown, and biting into their famous pastrami sandwich was an absolute dream—it was indulgent, delicious, and unlike anything else in the city.
For me, Los Angeles is an exceptional California gem—vibrant, diverse, and filled with unforgettable family adventures, whether we’re chasing sunsets on the beach or savoring world-famous deli sandwiches in the heart of the city.
Conclusion
Looking back at all of these California adventures—from hidden gems like Camarillo and Palmdale to coastal treasures like Santa Barbara and Redondo Beach, and even the vibrant energy of Los Angeles—it’s clear that each city holds its own kind of magic.
I loved how every destination gave us a mix of unusual experiences, joyful family moments, and exceptional memories that felt both affordable and unforgettable.
Whether it was hiking in Claremont, sipping a date shake in Indio, or savoring a legendary sandwich at Langer’s Delicatessen, every stop added something unique to our journey.
For me, the real beauty of traveling through California is that no matter where we go, there’s always a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, turning every trip into a spectacular story worth remembering.
9. The Fairmont Miramar
The Fairmont Miramar in Southern California has a year-round heated swimming pool. Guests of the hotel have easy access to the Santa Monica State Beach. Enjoy a picnic, visit the Santa Monica Pier, or go out for an afternoon of shopping. Choose from rooms and suites in two towers, or splurge on one of the 32 garden bungalows with private patios.101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, California 90401, Phone: 310-576-7777
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
