Embarking on a family road trip is an exciting adventure, and Southern California offers a plethora of captivating destinations for every member of the family to enjoy. From stunning beaches and vibrant cities to awe-inspiring natural wonders, this region has it all. To help you plan an unforgettable journey, we have compiled a list of 12 must-visit stops that showcase the best of Southern California. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an epic family road trip filled with amazing memories!
Start in San Diego: America’s Finest City
Begin your Southern California road trip in San Diego, known as “America’s Finest City.” Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to a diverse range of exotic animals. Stroll through Balboa Park, a cultural oasis boasting beautiful gardens, museums, and the renowned San Diego Air and Space Museum. Don’t forget to spend a day soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches of Coronado Island or catching some waves in Pacific Beach.
Visit the Magical Disneyland Resort
No family road trip to Southern California is complete without a visit to the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim. Step into the enchanting world of Disney and explore the iconic Disneyland Park and neighboring Disney California Adventure Park. Experience thrilling rides, meet beloved characters, and enjoy spectacular entertainment. Make sure to watch the nightly fireworks show, a magical experience for both kids and adults alike.
Discover the Glamour of Hollywood
Head north to Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, and immerse yourself in the glamour of Hollywood. Take a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and search for your favorite celebrity’s star. Visit the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre and catch a movie or attend a star-studded event. For a panoramic view of the city, hike up to the Griffith Observatory and witness the breathtaking sunset over the Hollywood Hills.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Joshua Tree National Park
Venture eastward to Joshua Tree National Park, a desert paradise known for its unique landscape and stunning Joshua trees. Take a scenic drive through the park, go hiking among the rugged rock formations, or enjoy a family picnic surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Don’t miss the chance to stargaze at night when the park’s dark skies reveal a mesmerizing display of stars.
Experience the Thrills at Universal Studios Hollywood
Continue your journey in Los Angeles with a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood. Step into the world of movie magic and explore the working film studio. Enjoy thrilling rides like the Harry Potter-themed “Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and the famous Studio Tour, where you can see sets from iconic films and TV shows. Your family will be entertained and captivated by the behind-the-scenes experience.
Relax and Unwind in Santa Barbara
Make your way up the coast to Santa Barbara, a charming coastal city known for its Mediterranean-style architecture and beautiful beaches. Spend a day exploring the historic Santa Barbara Mission or take a stroll along Stearns Wharf, where you can shop for souvenirs and indulge in delicious seafood. Don’t forget to relax on the sandy shores of East Beach or Butterfly Beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Discover the Maritime Heritage of the Queen Mary
Head south to Long Beach and discover the maritime heritage of the iconic Queen Mary ocean liner. Step aboard this historic vessel and take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and fascinating stories. Kids will love exploring the ship’s engine room, while adults can enjoy a luxurious dining experience in one of the onboard restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend a night in one of the ship’s restored staterooms for a truly unique experience.
Marvel at the Natural Wonder of Joshua Tree National Park
As you make your way back inland, be sure to revisit Joshua Tree National Park during daylight hours. Marvel at the unique rock formations and take a leisurely hike to Hidden Valley, a hidden gem within the park. Capture stunning photos of the landscape and let your imagination run wild as you explore the desert wilderness.
Experience the Charm of Old Town San Diego
Return to San Diego and immerse yourself in the historic charm of Old Town San Diego. Step back in time as you wander through the preserved buildings and cobblestone streets. Visit the Whaley House, rumored to be one of the most haunted houses in America. Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine at one of the many authentic restaurants and browse the local shops for unique souvenirs.
Relish the Beauty of Laguna Beach
No Southern California road trip would be complete without a visit to the picturesque Laguna Beach. Spend a day at Crystal Cove State Park, where you can hike along scenic trails and relax on the pristine beaches. Explore the vibrant art scene in the town’s galleries or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Heisler Park. Don’t forget to witness the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean, a sight you’ll cherish forever.
Indulge in the Vibrancy of Downtown San Diego
Return to San Diego and discover the vibrant downtown area. Explore the lively Gaslamp Quarter, filled with trendy restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Visit the USS Midway Museum, a fascinating maritime museum located on the aircraft carrier USS Midway. Take a harbor cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and the iconic Coronado Bridge. End your day with a delectable dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Relax on the Iconic Beaches of Malibu
As your Southern California road trip comes to an end, head up the coast to the scenic beaches of Malibu. Unwind on Zuma Beach or Point Dume State Beach, famous for their picturesque settings. Take a leisurely drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, soaking in the breathtaking ocean views. Capture the perfect family photo against the backdrop of the iconic Malibu Pier before bidding farewell to Southern California.
A family road trip through Southern California promises an incredible adventure filled with a variety of attractions and natural wonders. From the sunny beaches of San Diego to the glamorous streets of Hollywood, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, each stop offers its own unique charm. By following this itinerary, you can create lasting memories and ensure a fun-filled journey that the whole family will cherish. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the wonders of Southern California!
Where to Stay
We’ve done this drive a few times now, discovering new things to do each time we visit. Along the way, we’ve stayed at some great hotels. If you’re planning your own Southern California road trip with kids, you may want to choose one hotel group for the entire vacation to consolidate using elite status or earning points via various promotions. We chose Hilton, largely because of its extensive Hilton Honors program, that allowed our family to cash in points for some stays while amassing new points at other properties.
San Diego
- Hilton San Diego Bayfront: Downtown on the waterfront, this high-rise hotel is centrally located with all the conveniences. Award rates from 60,000-409,000 points per night.
- Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines: Overlooking the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course and ocean beyond, this hotel is near beaches and a fun hang glider port. Award rates range from 50,000-353,000 points per night.
Anaheim
- Hilton Anaheim: Across the street from Disneyland, the Hilton Anaheim is in the midst of it all, and slightly removed from the bustle of Disneymania. (Here’s some information if you’re debating staying on-site at Disneyland or at an off-site property.) Award rates range from 44,000–120,000 points per night.
Los Angeles
- Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City: Literally walking distance to Universal Studios and Universal Citywalk, this large hotel is also very close to Hollywood. Award rates range from 55,000-158,000 points per night.
- The Beverly Hilton: Steeped in Hollywood history, the Beverly Hilton is an original grand dame and host to the Golden Globe Awards each year. Award rates range from 155,000-200,000 points per night.
