California offers a wealth of activities and experiences for families, from iconic landmarks and world-renowned theme parks to stunning beaches and expansive outdoor spaces. Its vibrant cities showcase a rich mix of cultures, art, interactive museums, and diverse culinary delights, alongside a wide range of family-friendly accommodation. Coupled with its pleasant year-round weather, California provides the perfect setting for exploring with children in tow. Families visiting for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the San Francisco Bay Area or Los Angeles can also make the most of their trip by discovering some of the state’s top family-friendly destinations.

San Diego

San Diego’s ideal year-round weather and wealth of epic attractions make it a popular choice for families. The city, nicknamed “America’s Finest City”, has sandy beaches, iconic theme parks, Major League Baseball, and a plethora of child-friendly experiences. Enjoy a day at the renowned San Diego Zoo or its sister property in Escondido, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. You might also catch a Padres game at Petco Park or hop on a ferry to Coronado.

Theme parks such as SeaWorld San Diego, LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, and Sesame Place San Diego are all within easy driving distance of downtown, making them major draws for families. For some much-needed beach time, head to La Jolla Shores or North Pacific Beach. At the Children’s Pool area off La Jolla Cove, which remains open seasonally, you can spot sea lions and seals on the sand. Family-friendly accommodation options range from the San Diego Mission Bay Resort and Paradise Point Resort and Spa to the retro-style Town & Country Resort, the luxurious Fairmont Grand Del Mar, and the Hotel del Coronado.

Anaheim

Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Anaheim is a hotspot for family holidays, being home to Disneyland Resort — comprising Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park — as well as several other parks within convenient distance. Adventure City in Anaheim is ideal for families with young children, whilst Knott’s Berry Farm (remember the reference in Music & Lyrics while visiting the place) in neighbouring Buena Park will delight foodies and roller coaster enthusiasts alike.

Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park

If you have had your fill of theme parks, head to Angel Stadium for a baseball game, cool off at a water park such as Great Wolf Lodge or The Adventure Lagoon, or take a walk through the Oak Canyon Nature Centre. For a unique thrill, try a flight lesson at the Flightdeck Simulation Centre. Classic family-friendly activities such as bowling, go-karts, minigolf, escape rooms, and cinema are also readily available. For a creative spin on a classic food court, the Anaheim Packing District is sure to please children with its ice cream, fried chicken, and more. Lodging options include Disneyland Resort’s three on-site hotels, nearby “Good Neighbour Hotels” such as the Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel and Clementine Hotel & Suites, or the luxury JW Marriott Anaheim Resort, which offers rooftop views of Disneyland’s fireworks.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, but with a vibrant mix of beaches, shopping, museums, and child-friendly activities, the city has firmly established itself as a popular family destination. Movie enthusiasts of all ages will love spotting the Hollywood Sign or strolling down the Walk of Fame. Fascinating exhibits at the California Science Centre, the dinosaurs on display at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, and the ongoing archaeology at the La Brea Tar Pits are wonderful ways to engage young, curious minds.

For theme park thrills, head to Universal Studios Hollywood — part of an active working studio — or venture up to Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita for some of the world’s biggest and fastest roller coasters. Other memorable family experiences await at Venice Beach, the Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu. Hotel options range from mainstream brands to luxury resorts such as the Beverly Wilshire, the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza, and the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City near Universal Studios Hollywood.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has a relaxed and charming atmosphere that is perfect for families seeking a low-stress, high-fun holiday. The city’s picturesque beaches offer gentle waves ideal for young surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Take a family bike or surrey ride along the flat, paved cycle path that traces the waterfront, then hop off at Stearns Wharf for a bite to eat and some shopping.

Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo for a relaxing afternoon, explore the hands-on exhibits at MOXI: The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation, or try to spot humpback and blue whales on a tour of the Santa Barbara Channel. For a full day of wildlife, take a day trip from Santa Barbara Harbour to Channel Islands National Park. Families can choose to stay at luxury properties such as the Hilton Beachfront Resort or the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, enjoy a classic beachfront motel at Brisas Del Mar or Castillo Inn at the Beach, or go glamping in the fully equipped yurts and cabins at El Capitan Canyon.

1. El Capitan Canyon, Santa Barbara, 2. Hollywood, Los Angeles, 3. Petco Park in San Diego

San Francisco

Rich in history and culture, San Francisco is a superb destination for families seeking educational experiences. World-class institutions such as The Exploratorium, the California Academy of Sciences, the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito, and The Tech Interactive in San Jose all offer hands-on activities geared towards children. For aquarium lovers, visit San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39 or take a day trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a two-hour drive down the coast.

For outdoor fun, head to Golden Gate Park’s Koret Children’s Quarter — the country’s first public playground — or enjoy the epic Golden Gate Bridge views from the Presidio and Crissy Field. No family trip to San Francisco is complete without a ride on a cable car, a walk along crooked Lombard Street, a stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf, and a giant ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli Square. Centrally located hotels such as The Palace Hotel, JW Marriott Union Square, and the Fairmont San Francisco-Nob Hill offer both family-friendly amenities and plenty of character.