Spring Break in California: 8+ Best Places for Family Fun

 

Spring break in California means more than chasing waves and dodging sunburns—though let’s be honest, both are part of the fun! The Golden State is the third largest in the U.S. and is packed with so many opportunities for family fun, a short article can only skim the ocean surface. There are hundreds, if not thousands of miles worth of road-tripping fun on any given perfect sunny California day, resorts to appreciate its natural beauty, and the world-famous entertainment known throughout the planet.

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California rolls out a ton of options for families who love relaxing by the ocean or exploring natural wonders like the towering redwoods, or those who love adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, or even stopping at unusual roadside gems. California is a diverse destination and the perfect place for every kind of spring breaker.

With all these choices, we’ve narrowed it down to our eight favorite places to spend Spring Break in California that’ll be the highlight of any family’s year! From Southern California’s sun-soaked beaches to the great outdoors of national parks, there’s something for everyone, including your college students looking for adventure. So, grab your sunglasses and sunscreen (or maybe some snow gear), and get ready for an unforgettable family trip.

 

 

San Diego

With sunny weather, beaches, and a diverse cultural and arts scene, San Diego is a win-win for Spring Break adventurers. The whole family can unleash their inner animal at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld San Diego. Stroll through Balboa Park, exploring the museums and beautiful sun-filled gardens – after all, it’s probably snowing back home, eh?

For a bit of sun on your skin and sand between your toes, hit the beaches at La Jolla Cove—perfect for spotting seals and pretending you’re in a nature documentary—or Coronado Island, where the sand literally sparkles—it’s rated the best in the country. For those in the fam who are more about action-packed fun, LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad is a must-visit and we promise it’ll be your favorite place ever. It’s where kids build the wildest creations and adults suddenly realize they never outgrew their love for LEGO. Oh yeah, and there are kid-friendly rides for the littler Lego-lovers!

 

DON’T MISS! A Long Weekend At La Jolla Shores With Kids

 

And if your family’s craving a bit of wild adventure, check out the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and its brand-new Elephant Valley. You can stay overnight in a Safari Suite (because why not pretend you’re on a mini African adventure!? If you join one of their spring tours—you’ll be able to get up close and personal with a giraffe without having to book a flight to the Serengeti.

Want to check out the longest wooden pier on the West Coast? Head to Oceanside, a vibrant coastal gem bursting with new restaurants, bars, and live music venues. This is a great place for water sports galore. Paddleboard through the harbor, rent e-bikes to cruise the coast, or kayak your way to the California Surf Museum—where you’ll learn all about epic waves and maybe even feel inspired to hang ten yourself.

 

Where To Stay

For a laid-back, surf-inspired stay, the Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa in Oceanside is a family favorite. Choose between the beachfront access and the pool—if only that was our everyday life! The kids can enjoy craft hours, like stuffed animal workshops, and it’s full of other fun activities for families. Grab complimentary beach chairs and towels at the Beach Rambler and cap off the day with a cozy bonfire on the beach—s’mores included.

 

 

Los Angeles

No visit to California is complete without checking out the ‘City of Angels’. Families will find that Tinseltown is full of family adventures as endless as the celebrities they’ll spot in Hollywood. If you’ve ever dreamt of being famous, you’re in the right place. Check out some of the movie magic at Universal Studios Hollywood, where families will be able to battle villains in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or plan their escape from the dinosaurs in Jurassic World.

For those in search of iconic LA vibes—take a hike to the Hollywood Sign for Insta-worthy family pix perfect for a holiday card. Gaze at the stars—the cosmic kind—at the Griffith Observatory. LA has some of the best things for retail therapy. The Grove is more than just fast fashion—it’s a full-on luxury experience, complete with a trolley ride and a dancing fountain show. Beach days are a must—Santa Monica is perfect for a classic boardwalk adventure, while Malibu offers golden sands and a chance to live the California dream, even if only for the week.

 

 

Besides all the Hollywood glitz—sneak a little learning into your Spring Break fun with a stop at the California Science Center, with an up-close view of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Their hands-on exhibits make science fun for families. Time travel to the Natural History Museum, where dinosaur fossils and sparkling gems keep the interests of little explorers. Both The Getty Center and The Getty Villa offer stunning gardens and kid-friendly experiences. Head to the La Brea Tar Pits where you’ll be knee-deep in the real-life fossils of ancient creatures trapped in prehistoric goo. And for those who just can’t get enough of their tunes, rock out at the Grammy Museum with interactive exhibits that will hit all the right notes. LA can turn a family vacation into a hit record of memories!

 

 

Where To Stay

Since LA is enormous, we recommend the urban LA experience of a stay at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE. They have awesome family suites, plus access to museums and hot spots. For those looking for a little sunshine and a breezy beach escape, book a stay at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica. Real-life Hollywood movie stars have lived and stayed in some of their spacious bungalows, and there are so many cool stories. Enjoy a heated pool and easy access to the Santa Monica Pier or the 3rd Street Promenade. Better yet, split your stay and experience both city excitement and beach vibes for the ultimate LA Spring Break.

 

 

Anaheim

If you think you’ve never heard about Anaheim, think again. It’s home to the mouse ears and magic castles of Disneyland and California Adventure. It’s a full-on family fun zone complete with pixie dust, parades, and of course, Dole Whips. Scream your heart out nearby on some of the coolest roller coasters at Knott’s Berry Farm. Joust with knights in shining armor at Medieval Times while gnawing on a giant turkey leg, or let the little ones run wild at Adventure City—a perfect mini amusement park for pint-sized thrill-seekers. When the California sun turns up the heat, head over to Knott’s Soak City—a fantastic water park open from mid-May through summer—for a splash-filled escape. Great Wolf Lodge in Anaheim is open year-round, making it the perfect family getaway anytime!

Still craving a beach day, don’t worry! Just a short drive away is Huntington Beach for sandcastle competitions, Seal Beach for a quieter seaside stroll, or Newport Beach in Orange County for sunset views straight out of a movie. Whether you’re checking out a baseball game at Angel Stadium or enjoying a Pirate Dinner Adventure, Anaheim proves spring break magic goes way beyond the castle gates!

 

 

Where to Stay

The Viv Hotel Anaheim is the perfect place when you’re in Anaheim. It’s just minutes from Disneyland and the other Theme Parks, plus there’s an hourly shuttle to take you all around. This stylish hotel blends modern design with family-friendly amenities. Kids will love the circular pool and lawn games while adults can relax on the rooftop pool with a cocktail from Top of the V. The restaurants are excellent and some rooms have views of the Disneyland fireworks. The spacious suites also include bunk bed options for larger families. The Viv will definitely turn your Anaheim getaway into a vacation all on its own.

 

 

DON’T MISS! 5 Best Cheap Spring Break Trips For Families

 

[ctt template=”4″ link=”AO9ao” via=”no” ]Discover the best family-friendly destinations for Spring Break in California! From sunny beaches and thrilling amusement parks to scenic national parks, explore 8+ top spots for unforgettable adventures with your loved ones. Whether you’re in San Diego, Los Angeles, Anaheim, Palm Springs, Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, Santa Barbara or SLO CAL, and more… there’s something for everyone this Spring Break. [/ctt]

 

Palm Springs

Everyone in LA goes to Palm Springs for weekend getaways, and that’s especially true during Spring Break. Here, you’ll find a sun-soaked escape packed with family-friendly adventures. It’s a desert oasis that will keep families non-stop busy. Although it’s known as the Greater Palm Springs Area, it’s comprised of nine cities, each with its own charm and mostly all located along one long road—HWY 111: Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella—the latter is home to an annual Coachella music and arts festival held over two weekends in April. If you can snag tickets, don’t miss it!

 

 

Spring Break in Greater Palm Springs isn’t just about poolside lounging—though there’s plenty of that, too. Kick off your trip with a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Ascend over 8,500 feet for jaw-dropping views of the Coachella Valley. Once at the top, there’s hiking, a natural history museum, and plenty of snowy fun in the cooler months—yes, snow in the desert! For a bit of retro charm, tour the mid-century modern architecture that defines Palm Springs, snapping pics of those iconic colorful doors and dreamy desert homes. And if your family is craving a taste of the wild, a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park is a must—kids will love scrambling over boulders, spotting cacti, and maybe even catching a glimpse of a desert tortoise.

The fun doesn’t stop there. In Indian Wells, you can catch a tennis match at the famous Indian Wells Tennis Garden or explore the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, where giraffes, cheetahs, and camels await. Over in La Quinta, stroll through Old Town’s charming boutiques and art galleries, or try a family-friendly hike along the Bear Creek Trail. Don’t forget to save time for some classic pool days—because what’s Spring Break without a cannonball contest?

 

Where to Stay

For a family-friendly retreat with a touch of luxury, check into the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells. They boast the largest pool in the desert, and it even has a sandy beach and fun cabanas to chill in for the whole day. The rooms are spacious enough for bigger families, and there are a ton of activities the whole crew can enjoy. Parents can unwind at the spa while kids goof around in the on-site arcade, and everyone can gather for a sunset dinner with mountain views.

 

 

A little closer to downtown Palm Springs proper, with a vibe that leans more laid-back and artsy, is the Ace Hotel & Swim Club. It’s a retro-inspired hotel with a trendy and relaxed atmosphere. Families will have plenty of room in the cozy King Lounge, and who wouldn’t want to partake in fun activities like vintage record nights and craft workshops? If you’re seeking a mix of cool design, chill pool days, and easy access to Palm Springs’ eclectic charm, then the Ace Hotel is your ace in the hole.

 

Mammoth Lakes

The Mammoth Lakes area is a mountain paradise that offers a different kind of spring break adventure, and it’s specifically for ski bunnies. The Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort is beloved by all of California for its long ski season and miles of skiable terrain. They often stay open through Memorial Day and beyond (in 2025, the mountain will most likely remain open through June). The slopes offer thrilling runs for all levels, whether you’re a skier or snowboarder, there are areas appropriate for all ability levels. There are tons of places to eat on the mountain and in the village, which means delicious comfort food options to warm you up after a full day of adventuring. For families with younger kids, June Mountain is a quieter, family-friendly option where kids 12 and under ski for free!

Not into skiing? There is a scenic gondola ride to the summit that offers panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Families will love the classic winter activities like ice skating, snowmobiling, and sledding. Afterward, relax at a nearby natural hot springs surrounded by snow-dusted peaks. For those seeking outdoor adventures in the Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Lakes is a great option during the perfect time of early April when conditions are still ideal.

 

 

Where To Stay

The Westin Monache Resort is the ideal choice for families seeking a ski-in/ski-out experience. Located just steps from the village and the gondola, this resort offers easy access to the slopes and is close to restaurants and shopping. Spacious suites with kitchenettes are perfect for families, and the resort’s heated outdoor pool and hot tubs provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of adventure. With stunning mountain views and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, The Westin Monache is a great way to experience all that Mammoth Lakes has to offer.

 

 

A little farther from the village but with free city shuttle service to take families to the slopes, bowling alley, or ice skating, Outbound Mammoth has cabins big enough to fit a couple families or a large reunion. On-site steam and sauna rooms will melt away the slope’s energy and the hot tub will fit everyone wanting to reconnect over apres-ski stories. Kids will love the free arcade games attached to the onsite restaurant, and a food truck in the parking lot serves gourmet organic coffee and crepes of all varieties.

 

 

Yosemite

Spring Break is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park to see the peak of the waterfalls, wildflowers, and so much breathtaking scenery everywhere; you’ll see why Ansel Adams was so obsessed with photographing Yosemite. It’s through his sharing of the park’s natural beauty that he was able to raise environmental awareness to preserve it for future generations who can enjoy it today. Thanks Ansel!

So pack up the family for one of the most meaningful Spring Break adventures you could take because Yosemite Falls, Yosemite Valley, and Glacier Point await. They will leave you in awe of the park’s natural beauty. For families, Yosemite is the perfect mix of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to simply soaking in the views and being one with nature. The best ways to experience it is by camping or glamping, including RV’ing. Just make sure your family gets along really well before you confine everyone to a tiny space for a week. Yosemite Guides can help you plan your visit or they have guided tours available. You can explore Yosemite on two wheels or horseback, or even by raft. Whether families love fishing, rock climbing, birdwatching or painting in this incredible national park, Yosemite is among the best places for Spring Break for wilderness dreams!

 

 

DON’T MISS! Yosemite With Kids: Nature & Pamper at Tenaya Lodge

 

Where To Stay

For a genuinely historic national park experience, stay at The Ahwahnee, a stunning hotel at the east end of Yosemite Valley. It has welcomed guests since the 1920s with luxury, beautiful rooms and some of the most elegant dining options. Surrounded by many of Yosemite’s main attractions, it’s the perfect base for exploring the park’s incredible landmarks.

 

 

Santa Barbara

If you aren’t spending your Spring Break in Europe, then you must head to Santa Barbara, often referred to as the “American Riviera.” Beautiful, sunny and 100% relaxing, it’s a coastal gem that effortlessly blends Mediterranean charm with California cool. Plus, there are stunning beaches and a vibrant arts scene. The laid-back beachy vibes of Santa Barbara offer the perfect getaway for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Kick off your Santa Barbara adventure with a trolley tour. It’s a guided journey through the city’s most iconic spots where families will learn about its rich history, and we guarantee even the kids will be mesmerized by the Mediterranean and Spanish-revival architecture everywhere they look. After the tour, head to the ARTS District—it’s so Santa Barbara cool, you’ll never want to leave. Unwind at Loubud Wines for an intimate wine-tasting experience. The kids will have a blast putting together puzzles while parents sip. As the day winds down, indulge in a wood-fired feast at La Paloma Café, where the flavors of early Californian settlers come alive through bold, barbecue-inspired dishes. Their Mac n’ Cheese is the bomb!

Take a morning bike or surrey ride and explore the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market or the Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show—every Sunday since 1965—with over 100 local artisans. This coastal city really gets you feeling like a local. Kids will love the MOXI, the Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. It’s a special place near the Funk Zone dedicated to igniting a passion for learning through interactive experiences in science and creativity. The kids will spend hours there. When you’re ready for a siesta, head to the Salt Cave for a guided meditation surrounded by salt, of course. And if you’re ready to see the most awe-inspiring views, try a thrilling parasailing adventure. Take a stroll down historic State Street, exploring the ARTS District and the Funk Zone, or savor a margarita and some oysters at Moby Dick’s Oyster Bar as the golden sun starts to set along Stearns Wharf. This is a city that enchants at every turn. Santa Barbara promises a getaway filled with joyful and family-friendly moments.

 

 

Where To Stay

The Harbor View Inn is a perfect choice when exploring Santa Barbara. This conveniently located boutique hotel offers stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, and a relaxing pool area. Plus, it’s located right across from the iconic Stearns Wharf. Each room features a private patio or balcony, allowing guests to soak in the fresh ocean breeze. Guests can enjoy easy access to the beach, nearby restaurants and the vibrant Funk Zone — all just steps away. You’ll love that you won’t have to search for parking when you’re down by the beach. Take a ride share, bike or walk over the train tracks to get to the super cool ARTS District where you’ll find tons of shopping and live music. The Harbor View Inn provides an unbeatable blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience.

 

 

San Luis Obispo County (SLO CAL)

San Luis Obispo County, or SLO CAL, is one of the places in California that has a little bit of everything for every type of traveler. There are 12 main cities in the county where you’ll find everything from incredible wineries, food, farms, events, and even castles. SLO CAL is home to the iconic Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this historic estate welcomes visitors to explore its opulent rooms and landscapes for a chance to see how the 1% lived back in the heyday of Hollywood royalty and newspaper moguls. Just down the road, you’ll find the small town of Harmony, with a population of just 18 people, offering charming spots like the Harmony Glassworks and Harmony Valley Creamery, which also appears at the Downtown SLO Farmers Market.

 

 

Family-friendly adventures in SLO CAL mean horseback rides at sunset with Central Coast Trailrides and ziplining through the vineyards at Santa Margarita Ranch. After sunset, chill at Sensorio in Paso Robles, one of the most ethereal light and art installations. Unwind at one of the 250 local wineries, some with kid-friendly activities, cave tours, or art gardens—or enjoy a leisurely meal at places like Dorn’s Breakers Café in Morro Bay.

 

 

Active adventurers who love outdoor activities can choose between kayaking through sea caves in Pismo Beach or oyster fields in Morro Bay or biking along the Bob Jones Trail, a peaceful ride from the sea to the farm. There are ATV and Dune Buggy rides on the Oceano Dunes that the kids will never stop talking about, we promise! You’ll make friends for life at the petting zoo at the Avila Valley Barn. And do not miss the chance to spot elephant seals sunbathing near San Simeon. Romantics, make sure you catch the sunset on a gondola cruise in Morro Bay; it’s unforgettable!

 

 

Where to stay

The Paso Robles Inn has a welcoming atmosphere and is a fantastic choice for families. Its central location is just a short walk from downtown shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms. The bright and spacious rooms make it the perfect home base, and this is the best part, it’s an easy drive to anywhere in SLO CAL. On the other hand, if a beachside getaway is more your style, the Vespera Resort is the place to be! Ideally located near the coast with a stunning pool overlooking the ocean, they offer a blend of convenience and relaxation. Enjoy multiple family-friendly dining options and easy access to everything beachy.

 

 

DON’T MISS! 5 Perfect Places for Last-Minute Family Spring Break Trips

 

 

Bonus Trips

While we’ve covered eight amazing destinations, California has even more to offer! Take a quick trip to San Francisco to see the Golden Gate Bridge, or head to Lake Tahoe for crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountain peaks. These are great places to visit during Spring Break and offer a great time for the whole family.

So, grab the fam, load up the car with snacks, crank your road trip playlist, and take one of these cool adventures. Whether shushing down a snowy mountain, spotting bison on Catalina Island, or devouring churros at Disneyland, every destination will become a new favorite.

 

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