Travel
Family-friendly California Travel
Kid-friendly, budget-friendly trips around California. Where to go and how to get there when it comes to family travel on the West Coast.
Bay Area Family Day Trips and Vacations
Spring Break Ideas for East Bay Families
Spring Break inspiration for road trips from the Bay Area, easy travel, and other ways to spend your week off.
No-Fly Vacation Idea: Seascape Resort in Aptos
Aptos feels like a faraway family getaway without hefty airfares. Hop in the car and your vacation starts in 90 minutes!
Vacation Inspiration: Plan a Trip to Avila Beach With Kids
About four hours from Berkeley, Avila Beach is a tiny town on the Central Coast offering plenty to do with kids of all ages.
Renting an Airstream near Monterey — or Camping for Dummies
I rented a stationary Airstream at the KOA campground near Santa Cruz. My family had a fantastic little getaway. Reserve your own Watsonville airstream.
Spring Break Inspiration: Joshua Tree and Palm Springs
A family-friendly trip adventure in Southern California, covering Joshua Tree and Palm Springs in one week.
Weekend Road Trip: Jubilee Railroad Resort & Lake Shasta Caverns
Our family drove North and slept in a real train caboose. By day, we explored a science museum, playground, and the caverns at Lake Shasta!
Vacation Inspiration: Road Trip to Palm Springs
A family road trip to Palm Springs offers an extreme change of scenery and climate. My kids loved the heat and we loved the vibe. ...
5 Scenic Hotels Less than Two Hours from the East Bay
These special places make you feel like you hopped on a plane to get there & how to best experience them with kids
Vacation Inspiration: Oregon Coast with Kids
A simple itinerary for an Oregon road trip with kids: from the Bay Area to Portland.
Vacation Inspiration: Yosemite with Little Kids
Looking for a drivable vacation that's relatively affordable and truly awe-inspiring for all ages? Yosemite National Park should be top on your list!
San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park
Heading to San Diego? We had a great time at the San Diego Zoo's Safari Park in Escondido.
Bay Area Road Trip: Monterey Bay
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California's best indoor tourist attractions, a perfect mission for the long days of holiday school closures.
Good Deal: Waterpark Hotel: Bay Area Great Wolf Lodge
Save 30% on the Bay Area's first and only Great Wolf Lodge, an inclusive hotel and water park for the whole family from tots to ...
Where to Take Bay Area Kids to Experience the Snow
Bay Area kids get to experience the snow with a day trip or weekend getaway for sledding, tubing, snow shoeing, skiing, or snowboarding. Lucky kids.
What Are The Closest Snow Play Trips for Bay Area Families?
Where to take Bay Area kids to play in the snow? Skip the lifts. Here are five options for kid-friendly snow play with snowshoes or ...
The Best Tubing and Sledding near the Bay Area
10 top destinations with a ticket booth that will give you access to tubing or sledding with your kids!
Northern California Overnight Camp Guide
Our Northern California Overnight Camp Guide covers the Bay Area and beyond for kids as young as 7. Choose the best sleepaway camp.
Leland Snow Play, Tubing Fun for All Ages
At Leland Snow Play, tickets allow you to ride tubes down a man-made hill as many times as you like. Open late Dec.-April.
Our Weekend Getaway: Tahoe North Shore
Parent favorites for North Lake Tahoe. Where we like to eat, play in the snow, and stay with kids on the north shore.
Tube Tahoe: Winter Fun in South Lake Tahoe
Experience the thrill of tubing in South Lake Tahoe at Tube Tahoe, a family-friendly snow destination for families with little ones.
The Blue Angel Ski & Snowboard School = Awesome!
The Blue Angels Ski Program buses kids from Piedmont to Sierra-at-Tahoe 5 Saturdays starting in late January for a full day of lessons with food.
Bear Valley Ski Resort: Family-friendly Skiing and Snowboarding
Located just off Highway 4, Bear Valley Ski Resorts caters to families, beginners, and seasoned pros.
Ski Tahoe Donner with Kids
Tahoe Donner is a great option if you're staying in Truckee, priced right for beginners and kids. It's our go-to resort for affordable skiing and ...
Soda Springs: Tubing and First-time Skiing
Fun and easy for first-time skiers or those who just want to play in the snow!
12 Family Camps Within Driving Distance of the Bay Area
Family Camp is a terrific blend of outdoorsy fun and vacation. Usually, you bring your bedding and sleep in a modest cabin; meals and family ...
Where to Stop with Kids on the Way to Tahoe
Tahoe is a popular vacation spot among Bay Area locals. Make the trip with kids more manageable with these favorite roadside destinations.
This October: Kids Travel Free in San Diego
This October, kids ages 3-11 get FREE admission to top attractions when accompanied by a paid adult in San Diego.
Day Trip to Pacifica With Kids
Pacifica is the place to be on a sunny day. Pack a lunch and a kite for a stunning day at the beach.
18 Kid-friendly Sonoma and Napa Places to Visit
If you ever visit Sonoma Train Town (you should if you haven’t!), you’ll probably want to add a few other activities to your day-trip to ...
Vacation Inspiration: Russian River With Kids
While only about two-hour drive from the Bay Area, it feels like you have traveled to a faraway land featuring fresh redwood-scented air, a flowing ...
Where Do You Take Guests From Out-of-Town?
To show off the East Bay to your friends from back home, where do you go? We've got culture, stunning views, the Bay, and redwoods!
Book Now: Sacramento’s Polar Express
Don't miss your chance to purchase tickets to the Polar Express train in Old Town Sacramento. Become a member early for presale access.
Apple Picking with Children Near the Bay Area
Apple-picking season is upon us. Here are a few U-pick options and Bay Area apple orchards worth a visit with your family. Always, call first!
Lemos Farm in Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Patch and More
Find pumpkins, pony rides, train rides, hay rides, petting zoo, haunted house, barn slide, car barn ride, barn jumpers - wheee!
Best Bay Area Beaches You Can Visit Today
Bay Area beaches are perfect for a mini getaway or day trip. Here are 15 of our favorites within two hours of Oakland with tips ...
A Whimsical Staycation at Treehouse Hotel in Silicon Valley
If you're looking for a close-by staycation idea with a playful vibe that's both kid and dog friendly, this is the spot.
Best Places in the Bay Area for Camping With Little Kids
Here are our favorite Bay Area places to go tent camping with our little kids -- plus some cabin camping options for good measure.
Day Trip: Sonoma’s TrainTown Railroad
Just 50 minutes from Berkeley, Sonoma's TrainTown offers an introductory amusement park experience. Train enthusiasts will be more than satisfied.
A Magical Holiday Staycation at Berkeley’s Claremont Resort & Club
Plan a family holiday staycation at the Claremont Club & Spa in Berkeley. From pizza, cookies, views, and more, what's not to love?
Introducing Lair of the Bear Family Camp
Guests will be greeted with great enthusiasm by college-aged staffers who are delighted to hang out with your kids, make them feel special, and entertain ...
Day Trip to the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Tide Pools in Moss Beach
King Tides are Dec 13-15, 2024. The Fitzgerald tide pools are accessible for all ages. You can get to tide pools a very short walk ...
Tahoe: Northstar Ski School for Kids
Pro-tip:Â If you're considering ski school for two kids, check the various resorts for their age groupings. Siblings may be together in some locations, but apart ...
Camping and Swimming at Grover Hot Springs
Grover Hot Springs State Park offers a natural hot spring for swimming, accessible hiking for kids, and is terrifically affordable. What's not to love?
Body of Sound Presents Mountain Magic All-Ages Camp
This retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains includes yoga, kid's activities, dancing, drumming, DJs, delicious food, and camping among redwoods.
Santa Cruz: Vacation meets Staycation
A family-friendly destination that costs a lot less than Hawaii.
The Ultimate Guide to Weekend Getaways For Bay Area Families
Less than a half day's drive from home, kids will love these vacation spots just as much as their parents. Get your weekend getaway started.
Take the Train to Sacramento’s Railroad Museum
Your train-obsessed children are going to love this adventure to the California Railroad Museum in Sacramento from Berkeley by railroad.
Vacation Inspiration: Rush Creek Lodge, the Most Family-Friendly Hotel in Yosemite
Whether you want to explore Yosemite National Park or just enjoy the resort amenities, Rush Creek Lodge is a great place to stay with kids.
Vacation Inspiration: A Coastal Escape to Portola Hotel & Spa in Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa makes an easy getaway to explore the Monterey area that both kids and parents will enjoy.
Holiday Family Getaway in Napa: Meritage Resort & Spa
An easy getaway to the Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa offers holiday magic at its best.
Driving to L.A. – 9 Places to Stop on a Road Trip Down Highway 5 in California
Driving I-5 down the center of California is a fairly joyless journey. I offer some tips, restaurants & diversions for enduring a day in the ...
Road Trip: Monarch Butterfly Colonies of the Central Coast
Three places to see amazing butterfly colonies -- and hit the beach when you're done. Fully clothed, of course; it is winter time.
Christmas Tree Farm Magic at Rancho Siempre Verde in Pescadero
Ride an epic tree swing, make a wreath, roast marshmallows, cut your own Christmas tree, hike in the woods, and wrestle your brothers in the ...
Backroads Made My Summer Vacation Impossibly Happy
I didn't have to do any planning in advance or troubleshooting during the trip and each day of my family's active vacation was incredible.
All About Berkeley Family Camps: Echo Lake vs. Tuolumne
Are you registered for a City of Berkeley family camp? We're here to share some details and tips to prepare your family for the trip.Â
Vacation Inspiration: Deluxe Glamping in Carmel Valley
One Bay Area family had such a lovely time at this glamping spot in Carmel Valley, they wanted to tell us about it.
Fabulous Safari West in Santa Rosa
I took my family to Safari West in Santa Rosa to spend the morning on a safari vehicle tour. Super fun! I suggest this trip ...
Family Vacation Inspiration: Scottsdale, AZ
Traveling to Scottsdale, AZ with kids is great if you can stand the heat! Activities include lots of pool time.
Vacation Inspiration: Balboa Island
My family spent last New Year's Eve on Balboa Island in an AirBnB for 3 nights. This little Southern California gem is a great spot ...
Camping at Mount Madonna & Fruit Picking in Watsonville
In 2023 and 2024, many camp sites at Mount Madonna are closed for forest maintenance.
Vacation Inspiration: Sunriver & Bend, Oregon
Plan a family vacation to Bend, Oregon. Hike through the forest, bike the city, explore a volcano, and stay at a top resort in Sunriver, ...
A Royal Staycation at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco
My family spent a magical weekend at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco with high tea, cookie decorating, dive-in movies, and the softest beds ever!
Vacation Inspiration: Monterey County
Monterey, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Pebble Beach, and Moss Landing with miles of beaches & safe overnight lodging.
Kid-Friendly Farms to Visit Near The East Bay
We have loved bringing our children to meet animals and run around at a working farm. Ride a pony, chase a chicken, pick an apple. ...
Day Trip: Sheep at Mission Ranch, in the Fairytale-esque Carmel-by-the-Sea
If you happen to be headed south down the coast on a Sunday, you must try the Sunday Brunch at Mission Ranch. It’s a quick, ...
Free Park Passes for Fourth Graders
Hey fourth graders! See natural wonders and historic sites in California and beyond for free. Two very cool initiatives—one federal and one state—to get all ...
A Weekend in Paso Robles With Kids
Kid-friendly attractions in beautiful wine country.
Cornerstone Sonoma: Kid-friendly Botanical Garden and Wine Tasting
Want a good family-friendly wine country activity? We love Cornerstone Sonoma, a botanical garden/art exhibit/wine tasting experience in one.
Star Wars at Disneyland: Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is the highly-anticipated land at Disneyland included with park admission. How to go? When to go? Let's talk.
Family Getaway: Water Park in Folsom & Old Sacramento Waterfront
Folsom made a wonderful mini-vacation for my family with a water park, waterfront amusements, and a new-to-us play space. We'll be back for sure.
Road Trip: Avengers Campus at Disneyland
What to expect at Disney California Adventure Park's tribute to the Avengers characters. Marvel fans are gonna love it!
Vacation Inspiration: Houseboating on Lake Shasta
Houseboating on Lake Shasta is amazing; we pull up on shore, extend the included ramp, and climb off to explore. Campfires are a highlight every ...
Weekend Getaway: San Francisco’s Lodge at The Presidio & Nearby Attractions
A weekend getaway in the San Francisco Presidio was surprisingly restful and fun for my family. You could do it as a day trip or ...
Vacation Inspiration: Gold Country & Farm Stay within 2 Hours of the East Bay
My 4 kids loved this road trip getaway with farm animals, fresh air, and gold panning all within two hours of the East Bay.
5 National Parks To Visit With Bay Area Kids Before They Grow Up
Do you prefer majestic trees or volcanic geysers? We've rounded up step-by-step itineraries for a handful of National Parks.
Santa Cruz Guide for Kids who Love Trains
Three terrific places to take your train-obsessed kid on a getaway to Santa Cruz. And where to stay.
{Road Trip} Kid-Friendly Glamping Spot 90 Minutes from Bay Area
Swimming, boating, jumping, and general outdoor fun, all made easy with low-key cabin rental.
The Festival of Holidays at Disneyland
Christmas decorations, treats, and seasonal magic is now through January 6, 2020 at Disneyland.
Road Trip to LEGOLAND
We had an adventurous few days at Legoland and I want to share our experience. It was our first time at a big theme park ...
Staycation in Santa Clara
For a low key, budget friendly staycation in Silicon Valley, the Santa Clara Marriott is an easy last-minute trip. My girls loved it.
Weekend getaway: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The theme park at Universal Studios Hollywood including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is best for those over age nine who love intense films ...
What to do with little kids at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood bucket list of fun things to do with little kids PLUS a discount valid through September, 2019.
Places to stop on a 101 roadtrip south from the Bay Area
10 kid-friendly spots to know about near California's US-101, for folks driving south.
Pitstop on 101: Tatum’s Garden Playground in Salinas
Road trip with kids to the Central Coast? Stop here!
The LEGOLAND Hotel: Is it worth it?
Every family has a different approach to vacations. Spoiler alert, I would come just for the hotel and skip LEGOLAND altogether.
Disneyland Tips for First-time Visitors
During Thanksgiving week, my husband and I took our son to Disneyland, and it was as magical as only Disneyland at Christmastime can be. But ...
Perfect Bay Area roadtrips with a baby
Here are a few Bay Area getaways where you can just throw the baby and gear into your family car and set out. Once you ...
Bay Area Camping for Dummies: Cabin Edition
Cabin camping is the perfect stepping stone towards becoming a real camper without having to invest in all the camping gear or sleep on the ...
Vacation Inspiration: 5 amazing trips for Bay Area families who plan ahead
Anticipation is half the pleasure of a vacation. Be inspired by these 5 amazing plan-ahead family adventures all around the world.
7 Family-Friendly Wineries in Napa
Monday Sparkles shares the most terrific family-friendly wineries that they go to not just for the wines but for the views, activities, and treats
Where to camp: Schoolhouse Canyon Campground
Near Guerneville, Schoolhouse Canyon Campground offers kid-friendly car camping in a redwood grove across the road from the Russian River.
5 great day trips in the Bay Area
Bay Area day trips for families within 90 minutes of Oakland: Safari West, Monterey Aquarium, Roaring Camp, Jelly Belly Factory, Ano Nuevo State Park.
Quick getaway to the Capitol: One night in Sacramento
Old town Sacramento makes an easy getaway for Bay Area families including a stop by the capitol building and a swim at the Embassy Suites ...
Day trip: Guerneville for families
90 minutes North of Oakland on the Russian River sits the quaint little town of Guerneville -- our favorite day trip.
Vacation Inspiration: Lake Siskiyou near Mount Shasta
The Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort was the perfect place for my family to stop on our way to Oregon, but it’s worthy of a long ...
Getaways with mom: ME time
This is the third post in our series about ME time, sponsored by domain.ME. I’ve just returned from spending a long weekend with my mom, ...
Road Trip: Columbia, CA, a taste of California history
We took a family road trip to Columbia, CA because I wanted to pan for gold while my son was in 4th Grade. Although I ...
Unaccompanied minors in the air
My children, 7 and 9, flew Southwest to Los Angeles yesterday without a chaperone. Here’s how it works: My mom, the person on the receiving ...
Vacation Inspiration: Renting an RV
“Whatever this vacation cost,” said my husband, who had almost nothing to do with the itinerary and reservations, “it was worth it.” That’s how I ...
Treebones Resort, kid-free vacation inspiration
For my birthday last year, I enjoyed the luxury of a few kid-free days driving down the coast with my husband. With only three days to ...
Vacation inspiration: Moss Beach (not Moss Landing)
Thanks to Jennifer Saranow Schultz, a Bay Area mom and writer of HintMama.com, for this piece about Moss Beach, a super close and toddler-friendly getaway. ...
Vacation inspiration: Moss Landing
My brood just spent a lovely three-day weekend in Moss Landing with extended family and I thought it might inspire some of you who are ...
Safari West: An Oakland family surprises the kids with a mystery trip
Thanks to Oakland writer Nancy Davis Kho for sharing her story with us today. When I was a kid in Upstate New York, my parents ...
A great time for camping at Half Moon Bay
This guest post was submitted by Peggy, who has lived all over the Bay Area but now calls El Cerrito home. Since having her son, ...
5 Family-friendly road trips from Oakland
Looking for a fun day trip or mini vacation for your long weekend? These fellow Bay Area bloggers have a few inspiring ideas and photographs ...
Healdsburg: Wine-tasting with kids
My husband and I took an anniversary trip to Healdsburg for wine-tasting with our two daughters, and Heather asked me to share some highlights. My ...
Reader tip: Family surfing in Half Moon Bay
I can remember taking surf camp lessons in Sayulita when I was a single, child-free chica. This program sounds like so much fun, albeit completely ...
Hyperlocal sites for parents across the country
Since launching this site, I have had the great pleasure of becoming connected to other hyperlocal bloggers who have started similar sites in their own ...
What to know about Disney’s California Adventure CARS LAND
I was invited on a media tour of Cars Land at Disney’s California Adventure park in Anaheim — just across the plaza from Disneyland but ...
Road Trip: A Week in Southern Oregon with Kids
After browsing Amy Whitley’s impressive website, Pit Stops for Kids, I invited her to contribute a vacation recommendation for Bay Area families. I’m pleased to publish ...
What makes a vacation a vacation?
One of the greatest shocks of new parenthood is the lack of vacation days. Do you agree? As much as I have enjoyed weekends spent ...
Hiking in the East Bay with kids
I have a shelf full of travel books that I’m reluctant to toss because they remind me of my past life. However, I know that ...
