California travel ideas and itineraries designed for families with babies, children and teenagers.
Joshua Tree can be excellent with children when you plan around heat, driving and short walks. This family guide covers easy stops, Junior Ranger activities, safety, meals, naps and a realistic 2-day plan.
Palm Springs can work surprisingly well with children when you plan around heat. This family guide covers pools, the aerial tramway, desert nature, museums, Joshua Tree and a realistic three-day plan.
A practical family guide to Santa Barbara with the zoo, MOXI, beaches, Stearns Wharf, playgrounds, stroller-friendly planning, parking and a relaxed two-day itinerary.
Napa Valley is more than wine tasting. This practical guide covers food, cycling, parks, towns, family-friendly stops, designated-driver planning and a relaxed two-day itinerary beyond tasting rooms.
Compare Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood, LEGOLAND, Knott’s, SeaWorld and Six Flags by age, height, thrill level, pacing and family travel style.
Plan a California trip with grandparents, parents and children without exhausting anyone. Covers pacing, lodging, driving, accessibility, split activities, meals and realistic itineraries.
A practical first-time camping guide to California with reservation systems, campsite choice, gear, bear-safe food storage, weather, family planning and mistakes to avoid.
Compare California ski destinations for families and beginners, including Lake Tahoe, Mammoth and Big Bear, with lessons, lodging, winter roads, altitude and non-ski advice.
Compare 12 of the best California beach towns for families, couples, surfers, road trips and quieter coastal stays, from Santa Barbara and Laguna Beach to Mendocino.
A realistic 10-day California family road trip from San Francisco to Monterey, the Central Coast, Los Angeles and San Diego with age-based adjustments.