Let’s be real: not all hotels are equipped to handle kids. As a travel writer, I have visited my fair share of hotels in the area with my two toddlers and had experiences at all ends of the spectrum. On one end are the high-end posh properties where you can’t help but feel all eyes on you as you hover over your kids like a hawk. On the other are the ultra-kid-focused places, like the Great Wolf Lodges of the world, where your children have a blast but you might end up with a migraine from the sensory overload.
The rare gems are the ones that strike a balance: the ones who go above and beyond to welcome children while primarily catering to the adults. Here are six family-friendly hotels — from near to far — within driving distance of the East Bay that the whole family will be excited to visit.
The Meritage Resort and Spa | Napa
Napa may seem like more of an adult getaway, but thanks to the Meritage, the kids will be ecstatic for a Wine Country getaway. Located just five minutes from downtown Napa, the Meritage is a huge property with plenty of space to roam, play, eat, and yes, drink some wine (or juice). Features include a bocce ball court, on-site bowling alley, fire pits, an expansive lawn to run through, on-site restaurants with kids’ menus, and a large family pool with a hot tub, kids’ pool, and splash pad. The property also almost always has something going on, from yoga classes to live music.
Distance from Oakland: 38 miles, about a 60 to 90-minute drive
Location: 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa
Phone: (866) 370-6272
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The Sandman | Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa has a ton of kids’ activities, from Safari West to the Sonoma County Children’s Museum to spotting Snoopy around town. It also has a crop of trendy, mid-century-esque hotels that have become go-to’s for families, including the Flamingo Resort & Spa and the Sandman, which both have pools and very affordable rates. The Sandman recently underwent a $4 million renovation to spruce up the look while holding on to its retro vibe. Family suites here are a huge perk, with bunk beds, a king bed, and a kitchenette. The heated pool is the main attraction, with a pool with an attached Pool House & bar that serves cocktails and tasty fare.
Distance from Oakland: 65 miles, about a 90-minute drive
Location: 3421 Cleveland Ave, Santa Rosa
Phone: (707) 293-2100
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Nick’s Cove | Tomales Bay
Imagine waking up in a luxurious, fluffy bed with views of Tomales Bay, your kids excited to stand at the window and watch the boats of oyster farmers going out for the day. Then, you step out onto your private deck directly over the water and let them spot birds and turtles while you sip your coffee in peace. That’s the luxurious reality of a stay at Nick’s Cove, an historic property that dates back to the 1930s that offers twelve colorful cottages, many of which sleep up 4-6 people.
Play games by the wood-burning fireplace, grab food at the on-site casual restaurant, and enjoy the activities of the area including beach play, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Rates at Nick’s Cove are on the higher end, but for such a unique experience, it’s worth the splurge if you can swing it.
Distance from Oakland: 66 miles, about a 90-minute drive
Location: 23240 Highway One, Marshall
Phone: (415) 663-1033
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Portola Hotel & Spa | Monterey
A trip down to Monterey is quick enough to feel doable any weekend, but at the same time, feels like a world away from the East Bay. You can take in marine life, play on the beach, and head to the world-class Monterey Aquarium. Our favorite home base for any trip here with kids is the Portola Hotel & Spa, an expansive property that recently underwent major renovations. Kids will love the “Pirate Program,” which involves receiving a treasure map at check-in that will take them on a scavenger hunt around the hotel.
Once they find the secret pirate password, they can collect their loot (a choice of some goodies from the front desk) as well as a free root beer float at on-site restaurant Peter B’s. Parents won’t only appreciate the fun for their treasure-loving kids, but other perks like complimentary beer on tap at check-in, super modern rooms, an on-site spa, and the proximity to the water and other attractions.
Distance from Oakland: 115 miles, about a 2.5-hour drive
Location: Two Portola Plaza, Monterey
Phone: (831) 649-4511
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Carmel Valley Ranch | Carmel Valley
Let me start by saying this: Carmel Valley Ranch is pricey. That’s for a reason: it is a true luxury. And yet, it’s also incredibly kid-friendly. The 500-acre property is a pristine playground for the whole family with endless activities, including hanging at the pool, booking a treatment at the spa, and playing a Pete Dye-designed golf course — in addition to daily programming.
Enroll the kids in pee-wee tennis, send them off on a QR scavenger hunt, or enroll them in the “Junior Ranch Hands” program where they’ll get to spend a morning tending to the on-site animals, learning to lasso and getting an intro to ranch chores (like caring for chickens, goats, alpacas or furry Highland cows). One of the most unique amenities is the daily kids camp, which is open from 9 am to 2 pm every day and open to kids ages 2-12 with archery. They’ll have a blast, and you’ll have some solo time. Magic? Yes.
Distance from Oakland: 122 miles, about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive
Location: One Old Ranch Road, Carmel
Phone: (855) 687-7262
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Rush Creek Lodge & Spa | Yosemite
Yosemite is a classic family destination, and hands down, Rush Creek Lodge is one of the most family-friendly hotels near the national park (and, honestly, even the state of California). Kids will love the large playroom (which has a large climbing structure and games), outdoor playground (featuring slides and swings), on-site trails, kids’ activity programming, and heated pool year-round. The hotel even lets families use the spa during the morning hours—something I’ve never heard of before.
Parents will love how convenient everything feels, from the proximity to the park entrance to the spacious rooms to the variety of on-site food options and the gear rentals. Rush Creek’s sister property Evergreen Lodge is another great choice, and keep an eye out for the brand’s newest property, Firefall Ranch, which is opening in May.
Distance from Oakland: 166 miles, about a 4-hour drive
Location: 34001 CA-120, Groveland
Phone: (209) 379-2373
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Further Reading
Have a little longer than a weekend? Our Spring Break Guide offers loads of ideas for a four-to-seven day trip.
