Travel

If you have a hankering for autumn’s chill, it's closer than you think. Take your family on one of these festive day-trips, and celebrate the season.

Day Trips

Balboa Park
1549 El Prado, San Diego
www.balboapark.org
Revel in autumn’s beauty with a walk through Balboa Park. Pecan, Fremont cottonwood and Chinese flame trees will light your way with gold and yellow foliage. Look on the corner of Quince and 6th Avenue for American sweetgum trees—the best tree for fall color in Southern California—with brilliant shades of red and orange.

Mount Laguna
10678 Sunrise Hwy (Laguna Mountain Lodge & Store)
619-445-6235 (Cleveland National Forest)
www.lagunamountain.com
Where to go for snow? Drive up Sunrise Highway from Interstate 8 and park along the forest service roads. You must display an Adventure Pass, available at forest offices, county vendors, and online at www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5208699&width=full. Alternatively, go to the Laguna Campground for sledding and hiking (day use fee).

Palomar Mountain State Park
19952 State Park Rd., Palomar Mountain
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=637
Head forty miles east of Oceanside and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific while surrounded by cedar, fir, pine and colorful black oak forests. Offers camping, hiking and trout fishing (fishing license required). A 3.5-mile trail loops around the park.

Witch Creek Winery
2906 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad or 2000 Main Street, Julian
www.witchcreekwinery.com
Treat yourself to wine tasting at Witch Creek Winery, just a block and a half from Carlsbad State Beach. End the day with a relaxing spa treatment at nearby Carlsbad Mineral Spa.

Looking for more Fall activities? Find Fall in Julian >>, or Find Fall in Oak Glen, San Bernardino >>

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Fall is Ronni Rowland’s favorite season and she always looks forward to simmering apples, cinnamon and vanilla on the stovetop each year.

Planning to take a road trip with kids or be in the car for an extended period of time? Schedule a break from screens with this fun game that encourages kids to look out the car window and discover the world around them. Families love our free, printable road trip bingo (aka scavenger hunt)! Be sure to print one for each child – and a second copy for the drive home. Better yet, have the bingo cards laminated and use dry-erase markers so you can use the game over and over again.

We’d love to see photos of your family using our Road Trip Bingo game. If you post on IG, be sure to tag us @sandiegofamilymagazine and use #ShareSanDiegoFamily or #SDOutandAbout.

Click on image below to download a printable pdf.

Designed by Rik Thiesfeld, exclusively for San Diego Family Magazine. For personal use only. All rights reserved.

Looking for more free, printable games?

Access our Summer Fun Bingo game at https://www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/seasonal-happenings/free-printable-summer-bingo.

Check out our Campin Scavenger Hunt at https://www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/travel/camping-scavenger-hunt-for-kids.

Find more free, printable scavenger hunts, apps and game ideas HERE. 

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Experiencing both the Skunk Train and world-famous Rail Bikes in Mendocino County inspired me to explore what other fun railways exist in California. Thanks to tips from train-fanatic friends, I found out there are tons! If your family loves trains—and even if they don’t—this list offers vacation and daytrip inspiration that will captivate most.

Ready to plan a unique family getaway? Look no further than the fascinating and historically rich train experiences throughout the state of California. How fun would it be to plan a themed family vacation dedicated to train exploration? No matter where you’re headed in California, there’s probably a train ride nearby. 

World-Famous Skunk Train, Fort Bragg 

Take the Pudding Creek Express on a seven-mile scenic round trip along Pudding Creek Estuary and through ancient redwood trees. The 75-minute experience includes a short stop at Glen Blair Junction, where passengers can explore the trails. Or, take a longer trip on the Wolf Tree Turn route, which departs from Willits (about an hour east of Fort Bragg). 

Railbike Excursions, Fort Bragg 

Ride the rails on an open-air railbike and experience the train tracks in a whole new way—immersed in nature. The two-person electric bikes are so much fun! Feel the breeze and breathe fresh air as you pedal along Pudding Creek. For ages 6+ (with parent). Also available is Railbikes by Moonlight, an evening expedition that starts 90 minutes before sunset. A more challenging 25-mile excursion is also offered along the Noyo River. 

Angels Flight Railway, Los Angeles 

If you’ve seen the movie “La La Land,” you’ve gotten a glimpse of Angels Flight, a funicular that takes passengers on a very short ride up Bunker Hill. Fare is only $1 each way. Consider purchasing a souvenir round-trip ticket for this historic railway car, which originally opened in 1901. 

Redwood Valley Railway, Orinda (Berkeley) 

Families love riding this miniature steam train that is commonly known as Tilden Steam Train because of its location in Tilden Regional Park. Enjoy a 12-minute ride through the redwoods covered hills of Berkeley. Open daily in the summer; weekends only during winter months. 

Griffith Park Train Rides, Los Angeles 

There are five miniature locomotives and 21 passenger coaches in operation between Griffith Park & Southern Railroad (open daily, except Christmas Day) and Travel Town Railroad (closed Wednesdays), both located at LA’s expansive Griffith Park. Leave time to explore vintage railroad locomotives at Travel Town, too. 

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Jamestown 

Get a taste of California’s scenic gold country on a six-mile, 45-minute ride aboard the historic Sierra Railway in Tuolumne County. Then, explore Railtown, a 26-acre park also known as “The Movie Railroad” since its trains have been seen in more than 300 movies (including Back to the Future III). Don’t miss the active roundhouse tour! 

California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento 

Take a 50-minute round-trip ride on Sacramento Southern Railroad’s historic steam or diesel locomotive, which operate April through September. Experience railroading as it was in the early 20th century while riding along the scenic Sacramento River. 

Redwood Forest Steam Train, Felton (Santa Cruz) 

Visitors to Roaring Camp can ride a steam engine through towering redwood groves and up a narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. Trains run daily (except Christmas); a 1941 Plymouth Diesel may be used on weekdays January through March. 

El Dorado Frontier, Long Beach 

Stepping into this mini theme park is a bit like stepping into a time capsule; it’s great for little ones. Admission includes unlimited rides on the carousel and the El Dorado Express, which has a 1.5-mile track. 

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad, Sonoma

Kids love the quarter-scale railroad and train-themed rides at TrainTown. Each train ride is 20 minutes long, venturing through tunnels and over bridges, stopping at the petting zoo. Open weekends; daily during the summer. 

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, Fish Camp 

Hop aboard the Logger Steam Train or Lil’ Logger Diesel on a narrated, one-hour ride through the Sierra National Forest. The Moonlight Special evening ride includes dinner and live entertainment during a stop at Lewis Creek Canyon. Trains run April through November.

Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, Los Gatos

Starting at Oak Meadow Station, families can take a 10-minute train ride on a one-mile loop around Vasona Park. There’s a carousel, too! 

Niles Canyon Railway, Sunol (Bay Area) 

Take an 80-minute round-trip ride on a diesel train through Niles Canyon. Operates the second and third weekends of the month, through October. Holiday trains in November and December. 

Pacific Southwest Railway, Campo 

Ride the Golden State on an eight-mile trek through San Diego County’s rugged back-country. Want to ride the train from an engineer’s point of view? A limited number of locomotive cab rides are available for ages 6+ with a paying adult. Visit website for details. Trains run on weekends. 

JUST FOR MOM & DAD

Parents needing (wanting?) a break from the kiddos should check out these fabulous adults-only train excursions.

Napa Valley Wine Train, Napa 

Whether you choose a Napa Valley winery tour, a meal in the vintage elegance of the Gourmet Express, champagne and panoramic views in the curved glass Vista Dome, or the thrill and intrigue of a Murder Mystery dinner, the Napa Valley Wine Train has an experience for everyone! 

River Fox Train, Sacramento 

Kick off your weekend on the Friday night Happy Hour Express, a 90-minute train ride along the river, featuring beer, wine and music. Those who are strictly beer enthusiasts might enjoy the 2.5-hour Beer Train, where passengers enjoy music and eight local craft brew tastings. Discounted tickets available for designated drivers. 

Lisa Gipson, who is always up for a road trip, is still discovering fun things to do in her home state of California.

Looking for train rides and train museums closer to home? Read our article “Fun Train Experiences in San Diego” at https://www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/out-about/7-fun-train-experiences-in-san-diego.

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I’ve driven up and down the coast of California my whole life (mostly between San Diego and the Bay Area) and only got to know one small town for decades (Solvang, which I adore). I’ve recently been intrigued with the idea—or should we call it a mind shift—of “just take the exit.” We get so caught up in the destination and the fastest way to get from point A to point B, that we often forget to explore and enjoy the journey. If you’re taking a road trip through California, make note of these fun places to stop with kids. Just take the exit!

Filoli Gardens in Woodside

www.filoli.org  
About 30 miles south of San Francisco (take the Edgewood Rd. exit off I-280) is beautiful Filoli Gardens, where a special tribe of trolls is visiting until Nov. 10, 2025. Bay Area locals and visitors can get an exclusive look at six gigantic folklore-inspired trolls built from reclaimed wood by world-renowned recycling artist, Thomas Dambo. The "TROLLS: Save the Humans" outdoor exhibit inspires people to rediscover nature and take care of the world around them. 

Each whimsical troll has a name, individual personality and specific "purpose" in teaching humans to be responsible stewards of the earth. Plan a visit to Filoli Gardens in Woodside to be thoroughly enchanted by Ronja Redeye (The Speaker Troll), Basse Buller (The Painting Troll), Rosa Solfinger (The Botanical Troll shown in the photo above), Ibbi Pip (The Birdhouse Troll), Kamma Can (The Treasure Troll) and Sofus Lotus (The Listening Troll). These magical giants are designed to spark joy and be interactive (yes, it's OK to climb on them) as visitors make their way through gorgeous redwood trees. Filoli Gardens has eight miles of trails if you're feeling adventurous. Kids also love daily story time, the new nature play space with a twisty trail and fairy garden. In addition to the "Save the Humans" exhibit, there are 16 acres of carefully curated rose (and other flower) gardens, expansive garden terraces and a 56-room historic house that spans over 54,000 square feet. Filoli Gardens offers plenty to see, explore and discover for all ages. 

Avila Valley Barn in San Luis Obispo

www.avilavalleybarn.com
There’s always something fun happening at Avila Valley Barn. Just half a mile off Hwy 101 (take the Avila Beach Dr. exit), this fun-filled stop is an excellent place to grab lunch, a treat or just stretch your legs, especially for families on a road trip. Read about farm animals and activities at Avila Valley Barn below (under Fun Stops Along California’s Central Coast). 

Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos

www.hiller.org
Take the Holly St. exit off Hwy 101 to find Hiller Aviation Museum, which offers an engaging, interactive introduction to the world of flight. Learn about aviation pioneers, including the Wright Brothers, Amelia Earhart, Bessie Coleman, Charles Lindbergh and many others. Get a close look at some of the fascinating "contraptions" and aircraft that early innovators successfully made airborne (and some not so successfully). Explore hands-on exhibits like the invention lab, flight simulators, a kid-friendly imagination play area, Parachute Launch Towers and how to make epic paper airplanes. Hiller Aviation Museum is located right next to the San Carlos Airport, so a bonus is watching airplanes take off and land from a viewing platform behind the museum. This outdoor area is where you'll also find the nose section of a retired Boeing 747, where visitors can explore two stories via a spiral staircase and sit in the cockpit! It's a fun and educational experience for aspiring young aviators and history enthusiasts of all ages. 

Read more about what to do with kids in the San Francisco Bay Area at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/travel/bay-area-visit-5-fun-things-to-do-with-kids.

San Simeon

The Morro Bay/Hearst Castle exit (from Hwy 101) leads to an abundance of coastal views and fun discovery since you’ll be heading to iconic Highway 1 (aka Pacific Coast Highway). For now, we’ll focus on San Simeon. One of the most well-known "attractions" (just beyond Cambria) is Hearst Castle., a National Historic Landmark If you’ve never been, I highly recommend it. If you have been to Hearst Castle before, go again and take a different tour—it’s so fascinating! Also in San Simeon is Piedras Blancas Light Station, an historic landmark that can only be reached via guided tour at 9:45 am (several days a week, depending on season); Tickets must be purchased online in advance. The docent-led tour includes a half-mile easy walking trail, access to the fog signal building and lower level of the lighthouse, time to explore on your own, and spectacular views of rugged shoreline and crashing waves that are unique due to the distance of the light station from the coast. The protected area is a wildlife sanctuary, so bring binoculars. Don’t miss free opportunities to view elephant seals, also nearby in San Simeon.

San Diego Family Magazine Managing Editor, Lisa Gipson, loves discovering new communities, hidden gems and fun things to do in and out of town.

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MORE ROAD TRIP FUN: STOPS ALONG CALIFORNIA'S CENTRAL COAST

EAT in Camarillo

Have breakfast at Waypoint Café at Camarillo Airport. Sit outside to watch planes land and take off while enjoying Cinnamon Roll French Toast (or indulge in a delicious shake at lunch). Kids love exploring the miniature “airport” off the patio, featuring a replica of the control tower and runway. Visit this local favorite during the week or at off times, or be prepared to wait.

STAY in Oxnard

Looking for a relaxing beachfront vacation without crowds of people? Stay in Oxnard—it’s one of Southern California's best kept secrets. I drove past Oxnard for decades, having no idea there were pristine beaches lined with sand dunes, miles of bike and walking paths, fun-filled parks, and farm stands selling local produce just minutes off the freeway. If you only go for the day, be sure to visit Channel Islands Harbor for a peaceful family-friendly kayak tour through Marine Emporium Landing or take a gondola ride through the Harbor’s Seabridge Canals. But if you stay overnight (highly recommend), be sure to check out Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach—the beachfront property is perfect for families.

Find more tips about visiting Oxnard here.

WINE & DINE in Ventura

If you have access to a babysitter, be sure to stop in Ventura for dinner at Rumfish y Vino. The outdoor patio provides ambiance perfect for a date—but if your kids are older, even teens appreciate the cool vibe and outdoor fireplace. My husband summed the meal up pretty well, “I'm not gonna lie. This is some of the best seafood I've had." He was talking about the fish stew. I argued that my sea bass was better: perfectly cooked with coconut rice, bell peppers and charred cherry tomatoes. Regardless of what you eat, get a margarita—they’re on point.

Find more things to do in Ventura here.

DISCOVER in Santa Barbara

The MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation is a must-do field trip for families. Indoor and outdoor highly interactive exhibits engage and delight all ages. Make discoveries about sound, light, speed, color, gravity and much more. Our family spent more time than we should have competing at Quiet Quest—a test to see how quietly people can walk through a rock path. Needless to say, I beat my husband and teen daughter at this challenge, but didn’t have as much luck when it came to testing jumping ability. Don’t miss the rooftop Sky Garden where you’ll find an interactive water exhibit, lookout tower and glass sky deck, not to mention a stunning 360-degree view of Santa Barbara. With surprises around every corner, MOXI is an absolute blast! Plan to spend several hours.

PLAY in Avila Beach

Just half a mile off Hwy. 101 (Avila Beach Dr. exit) is Avila Valley Barn, featuring farm animals, an ice cream shop with gourmet treats, and a country barn filled with baked goods, fresh produce, and specialty items. There is no entry fee to visit with animals, which include goats, pigs, miniature horses, sheep, alpaca, chickens and donkeys. Kids can even pet and feed some of them (buy a bag of feed in the store). Hot corn on the cob is often available from an onsite corn roaster, or get lunch at Chicken Shack & Smoke House. On weekends, kids can take tractor and pony rides for a nominal fee. Check the schedule online for seasonal u-pick opportunities on the farm.

SHOP & EXPLORE in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo (SLO) is heavenly with tons of gorgeous trees and a rushing creek running through downtown. Follow the San Luis Creek path to explore, then cross the footbridge from Mission Plaza to Higuera Street where there’s great shopping, plenty of comfortable coffee shops and infamous Bubblegum Alley. Head uptown to Monterey Street to grab lunch at SLO Provisions, where you might get lucky to find the rotisserie pork sandwich with lemon herb spread and fennel slaw as a daily special. Either way, there are delicious offerings for everyone in the family. If you happen to visit SLO on a Thursday, stay for the evening farmers market downtown—it’s been a local highlight for more than 30 years!

Managing Editor Lisa Gipson loves discovering new communities and hidden gems along California’s coast and highways. Photo credit: @SanDiegoEditor.

Planning to drive further north up the coast of California? Read “Fun Things to Do with Kids in the Bay Area.”

The "Central Coast" part of this article won an award from San Diego Press Club! Lisa Gipson received Third Place in the Domestic Travel category. See all of San Diego Family's awards HERE.

If congested roadways and unexpected flight delays aren’t enough to make you rethink travel, the notion of toting along little ones might. Having children is not a reason to stop exploring the world—it’s a reason to start! So, don’t axe your itinerary just yet. While nothing guarantees perfect travel conditions with young children, the tips below have proven successful for my family. 

Flying with Infants

Babies 6 months and under are often one of the easiest ages for airline travel. At this age, babies really only eat, sleep and poop, and with a bit of pre-planning, all three are manageable from 30,000 feet in the air. 

At the airport:

• Both flying and breastfeeding make moms susceptible to dehydration, so be sure to drink lots of water. Take a reusable water bottle to fill as soon as you get through security. I’m more likely to drink water when it’s cold, so I fill an insulated cup with ice before leaving home. TSA allows ice through security. 
• Breast milk and sealed liquid formula are exempt from 3.4-ounce TSA limits. They will be screened separately and swabbed, so give yourself a few extra minutes to get through security. 
• Check with the gate agent to inquire about flight capacity. If the flight isn't full, they may allow you to bring baby’s car seat on board, which provides a place to set your infant down (especially helpful if you’re flying solo). 
• Use the restroom and change baby's diaper right before boarding the plane. It’s tricky to navigate bathroom breaks during flight, especially if baby falls asleep on you (which is the goal).

Pumping tips for breastfeeding moms:

• If you plan to pump, I highly recommend a wearable breast pump. These smaller, battery-operated devices are easier to pack, eliminate the need for cords and bulky equipment, and are discreet enough to pump at your seat. There are many options available, including a more budget-friendly single cup for pumping one side at a time. 
• If you can’t get a wearable pump, the next most convenient option is using a cordless, rechargeable pump or pumping in a nursing room or lactation pod at the airport. 
• Most major airlines consider a breast pump a medical device, which means it doesn’t count as a carry-on. Pack your pump separately to save space in carry-on bags for other necessities. 
• Pack a pump in a bag that also has an insulated compartment for breast milk. Don’t forget frozen ice packs to ensure safe storage temperatures.
• Don’t bother trying to clean pump parts in a tiny airplane bathroom. Wipe everything down with breast pump cleaning wipes and save deep cleaning for your final destination.

Once on board:

• Babies don't have fully developed immune systems, so it's a good idea to wipe down your seat, tray table and the seat back in front of you with cleansing wipes.
• The back of an aircraft is often less crowded. It takes longer to get on and off the plane, but there’s a better chance of having an open middle seat or a row to yourself. 
• Offer a bottle, breast or pacifier during takeoff and landing. Babies don’t know how to pop their ears; this helps ward off discomfort. 

Traveling with Toddlers

Everything done with a toddler in tow requires a bit of self-grace, and travel is no exception. Some flights with my kiddo are a breeze; others leave me swearing off travel for the next decade. Here are some lessons we’ve learned along the way.

Travel compact. An umbrella stroller is lightweight, quick and easy to use, and saves space in vehicles and hotel rooms. Many car rental companies offer car seat rental options, so be sure to inquire.

Depart at night. We like to travel at night, even opting for red-eye flights when available. On the day of travel, we stay very active to wear our kiddo down. Then we give him a bath, put cozy pajamas on, and take a blanket on board. Flying at night means your toddler is more likely to sleep while traveling. This holds true for road trips, too. Wait to hit the road until after dinner and bath time (there’s also usually less traffic at night).

Pack surprises. I like to have a few new toys or activities handy, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Some of our favorites include Water WOW! and Sticker WOW! on-the-go activity books, suction cup spinners, playdough, mini magnetic tiles and toy airplanes. When we’re not using our bag of travel toys, we share it with friends. They always add a few new items, which is fun to discover on our next trip.

Keep shoes on. As of July 2025, TSA no longer requires shoes to be removed in security lanes. 

Expect a mess. Wherever there’s a toddler, a mess is sure to follow. Always have hand wipes with you, and use the airsick bags from the seatback pocket in front of you as a small trash bag.

Skip the gadgets (mostly). I’m a sucker for gadgets and I’ve tried a lot of TikTok “must haves.” Most have been a waste of money and space, but I do highly recommend a car seat tray for road trips. It provides little ones with a desktop for the car, which is great for snacking, activities and playing with toys. Ours doubles as a dry-erase board, which our little guy loves. 

Keep calm and ride on. Our son loves his hardshell ride-on suitcase! We still bring a stroller for when he’s tired or when we’re not at the airport. 

Avoid sugar. On one memorable flight, my toddler was crying loudly before takeoff when a lovely, well-meaning flight attendant appeared with snack-sized servings of OREOs. Against my better judgement, I let him chow down. While the treat stopped his tears, the rest of the flight was spent trying to quell a sugared-up, overly tired 2-year-old. Never again. 

Bring healthy snacks. Pack an array of (non-sugary) snacks your toddler enjoys and put them in a container that allows him to see the entire assortment. Providing toddlers with choices gives them a sense of autonomy and control, and it reduces power struggles. Chewing helps with ear discomfort during airplane ascent and decent. Gummy snacks work well. 

Find a balance. I try to leave the tablet as my last resort, but I also believe in picking my battles. Most airlines have options for free games, movies and TV, but if your kid has a favorite, be sure to download it beforehand. Don’t forget headphones! We’ve tried them all; the only pair my son will wear are wired Paw Patrol headphones, complete with puppy ears. 

Travel is a wonderful way to make memories with people we love. Enjoy the journey, go with the flow and make the most of each moment. After all, today becomes tomorrow all too fast. 

Jennifer Garcia is a freelance writer and award-winning photographer in East San Diego County. When she’s not traveling with her husband and toddler, she’s often thrifting, crafting or baking.

photo credit- Big Bear Mountain Resort

Ready to play in the snow? The whole family can enjoy a snowy, active vacation with adventures like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snow tubing, ice skating, snow people building, bobsledding, snowshoeing, winter ziplining, snow ball fights and more. So, pack up the car and head to the mountains for some good old-fashioned, frosty fun! Here are six winter destinations—all within a day’s drive of San Diego.

Big Bear Region
Nestled within the San Bernardino Mountains and accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway, this popular area hosts a range of family-friendly activities.

Big Bear Mountain Resort includes sister ski areas Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Bear Mountain is home to Southern California’s largest learning area, with the highest acreage of beginner terrain and a Skill Builder Park, which contains safer, smaller versions of the mountain’s famous freestyle features that attract professional skiers and boarders.

Check out two Magic Carpets—conveyer-belt style ski lifts (at the level of the snow) that safely transport learners to the top of beginning ski runs. Nearby Snow Summit also offers night skiing and a tube park. Both have upgraded base area facilities, including new locker rooms.

Additional winter fun includes Big Bear Snow Play’s evening glow tubing sessions, Alpine Slide’s authentic bobsliding experiences, and the new Mineshaft Coaster, the first and only mountain coaster in California! You’ll also find snowshoeing, zipline, off-road Jeep tours and the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. Average annual snowfall is 100 inches.

About 20-30 minutes southwest of Big Bear Lake, Snow Valley also has skiing and snowboarding, along with a snow play area and downhill sledding.

Learn more about Big Bear:
Bigbearmountainresort.com
Snow-valley.com
Bigbearsnowplay.com
Alpineslidebigbear.com
Actionziplinetours.com

Brian Head Resort, Utah
A doable 8-9 hour drive from San Diego, Utah’s highest ski resort boasts a base elevation of 9,600 feet and an average snowfall of 360 inches.
Offering terrain for all ability levels, Brian Head has two connected mountains: Navajo Peak for beginner/intermediate, and Brian Head Peak for a mix of intermediate and advanced runs. The resort is generally priced lower than many California ski areas, particularly in late season.

Other activities include snow tubing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and more; adults might also enjoy the full service day spa at Cedar Breaks Lodge & Spa. Learn more at www.brianhead.com.

Nearby Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are gorgeous after a dusting of snow. Learn more about them in my family travel articles: Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Lake Tahoe Area
With its crystalline lake waters surrounded by one of the largest concentrations of ski resorts in the world, Tahoe is a true mélange of majestic scenery and never-ending adventure. Drivable in a day, the area is also served by Reno-Tahoe airport.

The region has 15 downhill ski areas, an average annual snowfall of 400 inches, over 300 days of sunshine, and more than 22,000 acres of world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Resorts include Squaw Valley-Alpine Meadows’ rare mountain-top beginners area; Northstar’s high-end luxury accommodations; Heavenly’s unparalleled scenic views and après-ski scene; and Kirkwood’s off-the-beaten-path, small town atmosphere.

A full range of winter activities awaits, including ice skating, sleigh-rides, dog sled tours, cross country skiing, gondola rides, snowshoeing, and an abundance of sledding hills and tubing parks. There’s also excellent nightlife, dining and entertainment. There’s even “snow-ga”—yoga specially designed for pre-slope stretching and post-ski recovery. Visit www.visitinglaketahoe.com and www.skilaketahoe.com.

Mammoth and June Mountains
One of California’s premier winter sports recreational resorts, Mammoth Mountain, is located in the eastern Sierras, approximately 400 miles from San Diego, and served by Mammoth-Yosemite airport.

Mammoth Mountain is best known for world-class skiing and snowboarding, with California’s highest ski summit of 11,053 ft., over 400 inches of average annual snowfall, and clear blue skies 300+ days each year. Several base lodge areas serve the expansive ski area.

The town of Mammoth Lakes offers snow play areas, electric tubing, scenic gondola rides, high-speed snowmobile tours, ice skating, luxury snowcat tours, dog sled rides and more. Perhaps time your trip to include a guided full-moon snowshoe or cross-country tour.

Nearby June Mountain, about 30-minutes from Mammoth, is smaller and less crowded, with an average snowfall of 250 inches. Kids 12 and under ski/ride free.

Learn more about visiting Mammoth:
Ski Mammoth Mountain
Mammothmountain.com
Junemountain.com

San Gabriel Mountains
Several ski areas are easily accessible for day trips, just east of Los Angeles. The largest resort, Mountain High, is divided into West, East and North resorts. The North Resort has family-friendly, beginner terrain and is home to the North Pole Tubing Park. Kids 6 and under ski free with a paying adult; visitors receive a free lift or tubing ticket on their birthday with valid photo I.D. Visit www.mthigh.com for more information.

Mount Baldy has several vintage-style chair lifts and a tube park. Nearby Mount Waterman ski area and Buckhorn Ski/Snowboard Club are quite small, but cozy. www.mtbaldyresort.com

Yosemite National Park
The beauty and serenity of snow-covered Yosemite will remain with you for a lifetime. Beyond that, this winter paradise is home to a large range of snow-filled activities, including Yosemite (formerly Badger Pass) Ski & Snowboard Area’s ski lifts, 300 inches of annual snowfall, snow tubing/sledding areas and cross-country skiing. Ranger-led snowshoe walks are offered December through March, conditions permitting; and an outdoor ice skating rink operates seasonally in Yosemite Valley. Find more information at www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wintersports.htm.

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Lisa Pawlak is an award-winning freelance writer and winter sports enthusiast.

Ready to take your family on a winter getaway close to San Diego? Head to the mountains for a fun-filled winter vacation at Big Bear. Winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and sledding, ice-skating, bobsledding, snowshoeing, zip-lining and snow play — all within a few hours of San Diego! Read on to learn about this family-friendly winter destination.

Skiing and Snowboarding
Big Bear Mountain Resort  includes sister ski areas Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, conveniently located right in town. You can even ski both in a single day, since a free base shuttle operates between the two resorts and lift passes are exchangeable. Don’t worry about lack of winter storms because snow machines are busy pumping out the fluffy white stuff. Southern California resorts generally rely heavily on artificial snow to operate.

For beginners, Bear Mountain is a great place to start. It is home to the region’s largest learning area, with the highest acreage of beginner terrain and a Skill Builder Park, which contains safer, smaller versions of the mountain’s famous freestyle features that attract professional skiers and boarders. Recent renovations feature two new Magic Carpets – a simple conveyer-belt style ski lift (placed at snow level) to safely transport learners to the top of beginning ski runs.

Both ski areas have undergone significant renovations to base lodge facilities, streamlining the equipment rental process and introducing new, family-style locker rooms. Snow Summit offers night skiing, snow tubing, and the Adventure Academy – a one-stop-shop learning center for all kids’ rentals, tickets and lessons.

About 20 minutes southwest of Big Bear Lake, Snow Valley Mountain Resort  is open for skiing, snowboarding and snow play.

Photo credit-Geno Pawlak

Snow Tubing and Sledding
If you’re looking for high-speed thrills that require less money, skill and gear than the big slopes, consider snow tubing or sledding. Note: evening sessions are generally less crowded.

Options include Big Bear Snow Play’s daytime or evening sessions, which claim the longest runs and offer glow-tubing after dark, Alpine Slide’s authentic bobsledding (daytime only) and snow tubing experiences, and Snow Summit’s Grizzly Ridge Tube Park . All three are served by Magic Carpets, so you can save your energy for downhill fun. Nearby Snow Valley’s snow play area offers a scenic chairlift to access downhill sledding.

Other Winter Activities
For some high-flying fun, try a winter zipline tour with Action Zipline Tours. Transportation via shuttle vans and off-road safari jeeps is provided to the 9-zipline course, which also includes an adrenaline-pumping suspension bridge crossing, all located deep within the forest. The friendly guides create a fun, safe experience that will leave your family thirsting for more adventures. Afterwards, you might even splurge on the photo package.

Off-road Jeep tours are offered year-round, weather dependent. You’ll also find snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice skating. Kids love the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, which features over 60 Alpine animals, including grizzly and black bears, mountain lions, snow leopards, eagles, owls and foxes.

The Big Bear Discovery Center offers a wealth of free and low-cost family activities throughout the year, such as nature walks and crafts, snowshoe eco-tours, bald eagle counts and celebrations, and Winter Trails Day – a good opportunity to try snowshoeing and other winter sports.

During inclement weather, head over for some indoor fun at The Bowling Barn, which has gutter bumpers for kids and arcade games.

General Information + Where to Eat
Big Bear Lake is tucked away in the San Bernadino mountains at an elevation of 6,750 ft., with the surrounding ski slopes rising to 8,805 ft., so be sure to take altitude sickness prevention measures such as drinking plenty of water. For the drive, which is about three hours, you may need to rent or bring tire chains. Check road conditions here.

The area’s accommodations range from high-end resorts and vacation condos, to rustic private cabins and budget motels. Many families find it helpful to reserve a place with a kitchen; groceries are readily available.

There are also excellent restaurants -- don’t miss Grizzly Manor Café for breakfast, where the pancakes are bigger than the plates. Two adults can easily share a breakfast entree. If there’s an outdoor wait, ask for a cup of coffee to keep you warm. For dinner, head over to Big Bear Village, which is a festive area of restaurants and shops. There, Saucy Mama’s Pizzeria is a favorite – but if it’s too busy, try Fire Rock Burgers & Brews just around the corner. Just be sure to save room for their dessert options, which include ooey-gooey, fresh skillet-baked chocolate chip cookies a la mode, and a variety of ice cream floats.

Fun village shopping sites include The Toy Galley, North Pole Fudge and Ice Cream Co., and Bear Essentials gift shop. You’ll also find horse-drawn carriage rides and the Big Bear Visitors Center. To entertain the whole family during this excursion, play smart-phone based local scavenger hunts, or try a geo-caching adventure.

More information on where to stay, places to eat, and things to do in Big Bear can be found at www.bigbear.com.

Lisa Pawlak is a contributing writer, Encinitas resident and outdoor enthusiast. Photo credit-Lisa Pawlak.

Grab your camping gear and get ready for a great outdoor adventure (even if it's only in the backyard). Here are activities, crafts, recipes and tips that make fabulous family camping memories!

RECIPES

How to Make Emergency S'mores + 21 Different Ways to Make S'mores

CAMPING ACTIVITIES and ART PROJECTS

Camping Scavenger Hunt
If your family is planning to visit a campground, national park or other outdoor destination, be sure to take along a copy of our FREE, printable Camping Scavenger Hunt! Print one for each child in the family, then encourage them to explore their outdoor surroundings (always with a parent or buddy). The kids will love spotting various items on the list and keeping track of how many they find.

How to Make Campfire Crowns
Don't forget to make s’mores-themed crowns (featuring real marshmallows on skewers) for every member of the family before your evening campfire festivities! 

Art with Alyssa: Nature’s Paintbrushes

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Nature Craft: Flower Art

CAMPING STEM FUN

How to Make a Box Oven

FAMILY CAMPING TIPS and ARTICLES

Take the Family Glamping in Buellton, CA

Get Started with RV Camping 

The Woes and "Woo-Hoos!" of Tent Camping

SoCal’s Best Beach Campgrounds

Find more articles and camping tips in our "Camping Fun" Pinterest Board!

Updated: March 2026

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Southern California resorts and hotels that families love! Looking for a family getaway where there’s relaxation for adults and fun for the kids? These SoCal resorts offer plenty of amenities for families -- guaranteed to make memories that last a lifetime.

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort
Dana Point
Just a short drive from San Diego (about an hour north), Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point offers a plethora of family-friendly amenities, pushing it to the top of our list for easy, nearby, fun weekend getaways! Resort guests enjoy two outdoor pools (one with a splash zone), a putting green, spa, fitness center, walking trails, limited free use of bicycles, surfboards, bocce ball and ping pong equipment, a huge grassy park with playground right in front of the resort, and much more. Read more about, including tips about what to do and where to eat in Dana Point in "Visit Dana Point: A Fun Family Getaway from San Diego." 

El Capitan Canyon
Santa Barbara
About five hours north of San Diego, El Capitan Canyon offers the best of glamping in Santa Barbara. Choose from furnished cedar cabins or adventure yurts, surrounded by the tranquility of nature in a camp-like setting. Enjoy sycamore and oak trees, the Santa Ynez Mountains, a llama farm with stunning ocean views, and the beach is just a bike ride or two-minute drive away. Plenty of family activities and amenities are offered for guests, including a children’s playground, swimming pool, on-site restaurant, hiking trails, a summer concert series, and for adults—wine tasting and free use of beach cruisers. Bonus: Solvang is only half an hour away. 

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Oxnard
This recently renovated, all-suite, beachfront property is just a few hours north of San Diego. If a beach getaway without crowds is what you're looking for, this is the secret spot "hidden" in plain sight. Every suite offers two full bathrooms, making the accommodations perfect for families. Enjoy a huge pool, oversized jacuzzi, firepits (roasting s'mores is encouraged), on-site dining, and Henry's Gear Rentals, which offers everything from boogie boards, board games and sand toys to Go Pros, Xbox and Instamax cameras for rental during your stay. You can even rent a record player and have a family dance party in your suite! Two hours of "adventure gear" rental is included in the daily (nominal) resort fee. The best part, of course, is the fabulous location and notable lack of crowds, truly making it a relaxing break from the usual hustle and bustle. Read more about visiting Oxnard and Zachari Dunes in Family Fun in Oxnard. 

Hotel del Coronado
Coronado (San Diego)
The storied halls. The sparkling beach. The legendary playground by the sea. The Del has witnessed the wonder of children growing up and then returning with little ones of their own. It's been the backdrop of happy holidays and celebrations for more than 128 years and inspired generations of family traditions that bring you closer to the ones you love.

The holidays are a magical time at Hotel del Coronado. From its enormous lobby tree decorated with seaside accents to strolling Victorian carolers and more than 100,000 twinkling white lights strung throughout, The Del is pure holiday enchantment. Whether you’re there for a few days or just a few hours, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to get you into the holiday spirit.

The iconic Del is an adventurous world all its own, where beach-loving families from near and far write their fondest stories on its glittering sands. From surf camps and boogie boarding to sandcastles and coastal bike rides, the best memories begin at The Del.

  
Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay
Chula Vista (San Diego)
Sun Outdoors offers RV camping and comfortable furnished cottages (they call vacation rentals; I call it glamping) with front and back patios (each with its own gas barbecue and firepit), an on-site café and bar, playground, pool and splash pad, pickleball court and scheduled activities for families. You really never have to leave the property. But if you do, consider visiting the Living Coast Discovery Center right next door.

Great Wolf Lodge
Garden Grove (near Anaheim)
Looking for an awesome one-of-a-kind getaway for your family? Great Wolf Lodge is the only indoor waterpark and resort of it’s kind in California. The waterpark—available to lodge guests only—features a variety of attractions that satisfy everyone from toddlers to teenage thrill-seekers, making it perfect for families. Some highlights include River Canyon Run (raft ride), a lazy river, children’s activity pool, tube slides, a 40-foot drop slide and Fort Mackenzie, a multi-level structure with suspension bridges, spray stations and a giant bucket that dumps water on people below. The resort also features numerous attractions on “Main Street”: glow-in-the-dark mini golf, an arcade, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and Ten Paw Alley (pint-sized bowling balls!). 

Don’t miss the Forest Friends animatronics show and evening story time, where families are invited to attend in pajamas. “My son and nephew loved story time,” says mom, Jennifer, “and they loved the dance parties!” Great Wolf is located just 90 minutes north of San Diego and down the street from Anaheim. Ask about shuttle service for Great Wolf Lodge guests to Disneyland.

So, why does SoCal need an indoor waterpark? Here are some of the benefits:

• It’s an all-weather destination. Great Wolf Lodge keeps the air and water at 84 degrees at all times.
• No need for sun protection.
• No fear of sunburn, tan lines or losing sunglasses.
• No wind means you don’t freeze when you’re wet and standing in line for the next waterslide.
• No birds to steal your food.
• It’s not like any other experience in SoCal.

Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk (formerly Welk Resorts)
Escondido (San Diego)
Mario Kart tournaments. Free kids golf clinics. Family puzzle challenges. Mini-golf madness. Toddler finger painting. Build-a-Sundae Night. This is a sampling of the regularly scheduled activities you’ll find at Welk Resort in Escondido. Surprised? Perhaps you thought Welk Resort was a timeshare property for seniors. It’s true that Welk is mostly a timeshare community (for all ages), but a number of renovated villas are available for the public to reserve, making their family-friendly awesomeness accessible to anyone. Although it’s just 40 miles north of downtown San Diego, the beautiful grounds and surrounding mountains will separate you from the demands of daily life.

Local mother of four, Rachel Hensley, has taken six one-week trips to Welk Resort with her family. “Being so close, Welk is ideal because we just pack up our food and go,” says Hensley. “We love the waterslides, organized crafts and pool games, candy sushi-making, game room with pool tables and foosball, catch-and-release fishing, ice cream socials and on-site pizza delivery. It’s relaxing for everyone and a good place to spend family time together.”


Paradise Point Hotel
1404 Vacation Rd., Mission Bay
This 44-acre tropical island resort offers a number of holiday events for families, including a Kids Kandy Kane Race, Afternoon Cookie & Cocoa Break and the Jingle Shells Bay Sail. Finish your evening with s’mores at a beachside fire pit.

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Carlsbad (San Diego)
Omni features several beautiful pools, waterslides and a splash landing activity pool, the Omni Kids Crew program, Kidtopia Kids Club, teen fun in the Vibz Game Lounge or sport court, and family activities such as s’more roasting and dive-in movies. 

LEGOLAND Hotel or Castle Hotel
Carlsbad
A LEGO-lovers dream come true! Choose a pirate-, adventure- or kingdom-themed hotel room featuring a separate kids sleeping area with bunk bed and trundle. Your stay includes nightly kids entertainment, kid-friendly breakfast buffet and early access to LEGOLAND.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Riverside
Whether you stay overnight or go for the day, The Mission Inn Festival of Lights is not to be missed, featuring more than 4 million lights, animatronic characters, nightly carolers, horse drawn carriage rides, visits from Santa and more.

Is this list missing one of your favorite southern California family resorts? Email your suggestions to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and tell us why you love it.

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Lisa Gipson is the managing editor at San Diego Family.

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These national parks in Southern and Central California are within a day’s drive of San Diego.

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service with a visit to one (or more) of these scenic destinations. Seven of America’s natural treasures are located within 400 miles of San Diego, allowing local families awe-inspiring opportunities to experience everything from crashing coastal waves and majestic green forests, to stark sizzling deserts.

Always stop into a park’s visitor center upon arrival to request information on current conditions, road closures and safety alerts. Also ask about Junior Ranger Programs for a fun way to engage the kids.


Death Valley
A setting of extremes, Death Valley is one of the hottest, driest and lowest places on earth. Nonetheless, it manages to offer a comfortable visit – particularly in early spring or late fall. Don’t let the park’s name fool you; more than 1,000 plant species and dozens of types of mammals and reptiles thrive within its 3,000 square miles near the California-Nevada border.  

Visit salt-flats, sand dunes, badlands, valleys, canyons, mountains and mining ruins. Impressive wildflowers bloom from late February to early June, depending on elevation. Be sure to stop at Badwater Basin (282 feet below sea level, and with less than two inches annual rainfall), Furnace Creek (a natural oasis), and the Ubehebe Crater (resembles the surface of Mars). Snow-covered Telescope Peak towers over 11,000 feet.

Visitation is fairly steady all year; although cooler months are more pleasant, many come in summer to experience the infamous heat. A variety of lodging and camping options are available within the park.

Photo by Lisa Pawlak

Joshua Tree
Few places on earth offer such a wondrous and seemingly out-of-this-world experience as Joshua Tree. Located a mere 175 miles away, the park has enormous rock formations, unusual Joshua trees, rugged mountains, sand dunes and green oases.

Throughout the year, family-friendly outdoor activities include camping, hiking, stargazing, wildflower and wildlife viewing, rock climbing and bouldering.

Get tips for traveling with the family to Joshua Tree National Park in our article.

Pinnacles
Our newest National Park offers a peaceful, scenic landscape that rests in stark contrast to the volcanic eruptions that formed these geologic wonders millions of years ago. Notably, Pinnacles operates as a rare release site for captive-bred California condors.

The park, filled with chaparral, oak woodlands and canyons, also holds unusual talus caves and towering rock spires, along with over 32 miles of trails. Hikers and climbers love the park’s many adventures, including explorations of Bear Gulch and Balconies caves; enjoy stargazing, wildflowers in the spring, and fall foliage later in the year. Abundant wildlife includes raptors, mountain lions, foxes, bobcats, rabbits, deer, lizards and snakes.

Most popular during cooler months, the park has two entrances: East and West. Inner roads do not connect the two. Pinnacles Campground lies within the park and accepts reservations. There is no other lodging inside the park, but find a variety of options in nearby Soledad, Hollister or Salinas.

Channel Islands
Located off the coast between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles, these five islands are paradise for marine animal and bird lovers; view whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, sharks and almost 400 avian species. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy camping, kayaking, hiking, photography, boating, snorkeling and scuba diving. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits and Junior Ranger Program at the Channel Islands Visitors Center, located in Ventura.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon
At these adjoining parks in the southern Sierra Nevadas are giant sequoia trees, black bears and mountain lions, one of the continent’s deepest canyons, remote wilderness, huge granite walls, shady forests, peaceful meadows, roaring rivers and splendid waterfalls. The entire region is pure bliss for hikers, climbers and nature lovers.

Take a scenic drive along Generals Highway (check road conditions—it can close in winter), which runs between the two parks. Stop at Giant Forest for the one-mile paved Big Trees Trail or to climb Moro Rock’s 400 steps to fantastic views. A tour of Crystal Cave requires advance ticket reservations. Grant Grove is home to some of the largest trees on the planet and Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (closed in winter) heads into the mile-deep, glacially carved canyon.

Weather varies significantly with the seasons and due to elevation changes. Winter conditions can limit accessibility, but also allow for fun snow activities. There are four park lodges (two open year-round) and 14 campgrounds. Backcountry hikes include parts of the Pacific Coast Trail and Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 states.

Photo by Kim Platt

Yosemite
Yosemite’s majestic beauty is truly a site to behold: the astounding waterfalls, grandiose rock formations, flowering meadows, giant sequoias, panoramic viewpoints, mirror lakes, rushing rivers and remote wilderness areas. Both relaxation and adventure await millions of visitors each year.

Yosemite Valley (about 400 miles from San Diego) can be toured via park shuttles and offers a variety of hikes and activities, including many geologic marvels. Cook’s Meadow trail is a serene one-mile walk that offers views of popular Glacier Point, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock and Yosemite Falls (the highest waterfall in North America). El Capitan, an enormous granite monolith, hosts world-class climbers. Lower Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall can be reached via short trails. When you leave the valley, the Tunnel View Overlook is not to be missed.

Along with scenic drives and hundreds of hiking trails, there is ample opportunity for photography, biking, bird watching, camping, fishing, horseback riding, backpacking and winter sports. The park is open year-round and accommodations include everything from backcountry camping and campgrounds, to tent cabins and luxury hotels.

Park rangers recommend starting the day equipped with plenty of water, food and gas. Wear appropriate footwear and weather protection, use careful footing, and appreciate wildlife from a safe distance.

Lisa Pawlak is a contributing writer, Encinitas resident and mom of two boys.