Looking to plan an unforgettable family getaway in the Golden State? With amusement parks, beaches, national parks, and big cities, California offers endless options for family fun and adventure. If you’re planning a luxury vacation, you’ll also find world-class resorts, exclusive excursions, and indulgent experiences to enjoy. Here are some of the top activities to consider when planning your next luxury family vacation in California.
Hit the Beach in Malibu or Laguna Beach
What’s a family trip to California without hitting the beach? Head to Malibu or Laguna Beach where you can relax oceanside at a luxury beachfront hotel or resort. Build sandcastles, go beachcombing, or try beach activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or surf lessons. End the day watching the sunset with a beach bonfire and s’mores.
Tour the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
See exotic wildlife from around the world at the renowned San Diego Zoo and adjacent Safari Park. Feed a giraffe, watch the pandas play, say hello to the gorillas, and get up close to rhinos and elephants on a safari expedition. Special VIP and behind-the-scenes tours are available for extra memorable encounters with animals.
Spend the Day at Legoland
For the ultimate amusement park getaway, spend a day exploring Legoland California Resort. Ride thrilling rollercoasters, drive little Lego cars, watch a 4D movie, and of course, marvel at epic Lego creations throughout the park. The new Lego Movie World, based on the films, is a big hit with kids too. Stay at the Legoland Hotel for even more Lego theming.
Visit Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf
Take a ferry out to Alcatraz Island for a tour of the infamous former prison. The audio tour narrated by former guards and inmates brings the history to life. After, explore the sights of Fisherman’s Wharf including the sea lions on Pier 39, the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park with its historic ships to tour, candy and novelty shops, street performers, and fresh seafood galore.
See the Majestic Redwoods
No family trip to California is complete without seeing the magnificent redwoods. Muir Woods National Monument, just minutes from San Francisco, offers easy walking trails through a spectacular old-growth redwood forest. Or head a few hours north to the Avenue of the Giants along Highway 101 winding through Humboldt Redwoods State Park with some of the tallest trees on Earth. Gaze up in awe at these natural wonders.
Ride the Rollercoasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain
Thrill-seekers of all ages will love a day at Six Flags Magic Mountain, home to an epic collection of rollercoasters and thrill rides. Classics like the Revolution were the first looping rollercoasters ever built. Experience total sensory overload on X2 with its 360-degree rotating seats. Have small kids? Check out kids’ areas like Bugs Bunny World too.
Spend a Day at Universal Studios Hollywood
Get ready for nonstop entertainment for the whole family at Universal Studios Hollywood. Ride The Simpsons Ride and have your photo op with Krusty the Clown. Battle aliens on Revenge of the Mummy. Experience the magic of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Little ones can meet lovable characters from Despicable Me. When you stay on-site at one of Universal’s luxury resort hotels, you get exclusive perks and early theme park admission.
Relax at a Luxury Resort in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is the perfect oasis in the California desert for some family R&R. Lounge by the pools under palm trees, play golf or tennis, visit the area’s famous spas for pampering treatments, or check out mid-century modern architecture. For a unique experience, stay at one of Palm Spring’s many boutique hotels with fun themes, from Elvis to Flintstones to Alice in Wonderland.
Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Get an up-close look at marine life from around the Pacific at the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. You can touch bat rays and sea stars in the touch pools, be mesmerized by the graceful sea otters, get a glimpse of sharks and schools of sardines, watch an octopus unfurl its tentacles, and so much more. It’s an interactive science experience kids love.
Best Travel Agency for Luxury Family Vacation in California
Looking for help planning the ultimate luxury family vacation in California? Contact the expert travel advisors at House of Nomads Travel. As a high-end travel agency specializing in luxury vacations, they excel at crafting customized California trips tailored to your family’s unique interests, tastes, and budget. They know the best hotels, resorts, tours, activities, and insider tips for California. House of Nomads will handle all the details—booking accommodations, arranging private excursions, making restaurant reservations, and coordinating transportation between destinations so your family can simply relax and enjoy your luxury vacation. Whether you want to relax beachside in Malibu, immerse yourselves in Hollywood glamour, or balance sightseeing with quality family bonding time, the seasoned advisors at House of Nomads Travel have you covered. Contact them today to start planning your extraordinary family getaway to California!
Summary
Whether your family loves outdoor adventures, amusement parks, wildlife, or exploring new cities, you’ll find amazing activities in California to please everyone. With incredible natural scenery, world-renowned attractions, and luxury accommodation options, planning an epic family getaway in California has never been easier. Start dreaming up your Golden State itinerary today! The whole family will bring back memories to last a lifetime.