The Ultimate Family-Friendly California Road Trip
There’s something undeniably magical about a California road trip. From world-class cities and breathtaking national parks to quiet coastal towns and sun-soaked beaches, it’s a route that packs a punch—especially for families. With immersive experiences for all ages, luxurious-yet-welcoming hotels, and iconic landmarks at every turn, this journey down the Golden State’s coast is one you’ll never forget.
Here’s your guide to the ultimate 16-day California road trip itinerary—family-style.
Day 1–3: Welcome to San Francisco!
Fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to kick off your family road trip adventure. After landing, pick up your rental car — ideally something roomy and comfortable for the miles ahead. We recommend an SUV or midsize crossover for extra space and a higher driving position for scenic coastal roads.
Stay at: Fairmont San Francisco – A family-friendly luxury hotel atop Nob Hill with spacious suites and direct access to the cable car lines.
Why the Fairmont is Great for Families:
San Francisco is vibrant, easy to navigate, and packed with hands-on museums, parks, and iconic sights. From cable cars to Chinatown to waterfront adventures, it’s equal parts exciting and enriching for every age.
What Families Can Enjoy in San Francisco:
San Francisco is a city packed with color, culture, and wow-worthy experiences for kids and adults alike.
Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39: Watch sea lions lounge in the sun, ride the double-decker carousel, and explore quirky souvenir shops. Don’t miss Musée Mécanique, a hands-on arcade museum with vintage games you can actually play.
Cable Car Rides: Riding a cable car through the city’s steep hills is not only thrilling for kids, but also gives the whole family a fun, scenic intro to the city.
Exploratorium: A world-class interactive science and art museum at Pier 15, with exhibits that spark curiosity and invite play for every age group.
California Academy of Sciences: Located in Golden Gate Park, this museum is home to an aquarium, rainforest, natural history exhibits, and a planetarium — all under one living roof.
Golden Gate Park: One of the largest urban parks in the world, it offers playgrounds, paddle boat rentals at Stow Lake, botanical gardens, and even a herd of bison.
Alcatraz Island Tour: The ferry ride is part of the adventure, and the audio tour of the famous former prison brings history to life in a surprisingly family-friendly way.
Lands End & Ocean Beach: Great for an easy scenic hike with photo-worthy views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Kids will love exploring the Sutro Baths ruins and stopping for ice cream in nearby neighborhoods.
Sausalito: Just across the bridge, this charming waterfront town makes for a lovely detour — grab fish & chips or ice cream, rent bikes, or simply stroll the marina.
Ghirardelli Square: It’s practically a requirement to visit for over-the-top sundaes and chocolatey treats. The nearby beach area at Aquatic Park is also great for a little playtime.
Evenings for Families: Watch the lights come up across the Bay on a sunset cruise, or catch an outdoor movie night or live performance (check local listings). At the Fairmont, relax with room service and city views after a big day.
Lunch Recommendation: Gott’s Roadside
2 Locations: Ferry Building Marketplace, 1 Ferry Building #6 and Thrive City – Chase Center 151 Warriors Way, Suite 102
Why It’s Great for Families: Gott’s Roadside offers a relaxed, retro diner experience with a menu that caters to all ages.Its casual atmosphere is ideal for families, and the outdoor seating provides beautiful views of the Bay. The kids' menu features favorites like grilled cheese and mini corn dogs, ensuring even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
Dinner Recommendation: Park Tavern
In the heart of North Beach, Park Tavern combines a family-friendly ambiance with an upscale, but relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant is spacious, offering both indoor and outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying a meal after a day of exploring the city.
Days 4-6: Yosemite National Park – Waterfalls, Wildlife & Wilderness
Why It’s Great for Families:
Yosemite is an outdoor classroom. Kids and adults alike are awestruck by its waterfalls, granite monoliths, and star-studded skies. With guided hikes, fly-fishing, and nightly s’mores, this is quality family time at its best.
Where to Stay: Firefall Ranch Lodge – A stunning, family-run property just outside the park, blending comfort and nature.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Private Naturalist-Led Tour: A guided hike through Yosemite Valley will offer incredible views of famous landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome, with a knowledgeable guide explaining the natural history of the park.
Yosemite Falls Hike: This is a relatively easy family-friendly trail to one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, perfect for all ages.
Fly-Fishing in High Country: Learn how to fly-fish in pristine alpine lakes. Families are provided with gear, and guides teach the basics—making it an ideal way to bond while learning a new skill.
S’mores by the Campfire: After an active day, relax around a campfire at the lodge, where you can roast marshmallows and enjoy the night sky through a telescope.
Stargazing: Yosemite is a dark sky park, making it one of the best places for stargazing. Join a ranger-led stargazing program or simply lie on your back and gaze up at the Milky Way.
Lunch: Degnan’s Kitchen – Yosemite’s go-to for hearty sandwiches and picnic-style eats.
YOVA Restaurant - YOVA offers a playful take on fine dining, blending California freshness with traditional South American grilling techniques. The stunning dining room features awe-inspiring design touches, creating an inviting atmosphere for families.The menu includes a variety of dishes, from prime cuts of meat and fish to vegetarian specialties like cauliflower steak.Don't miss their exceptionally fresh desserts, crafted using the Swiss Pacojet. YOVA is open for dinner from 5 PM to 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays through March.
The Tavern - For a more casual dining experience, The Tavern serves full-service breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. The menu features hearty mountain fare, including classics like Huevos Rancheros and Wild Berry Granola Parfaits for breakfast, and a variety of options for lunch and dinner. The stylish tavern is a perfect spot to unwind after an adventurous day, offering specialty drinks, craft beers, fine wine, and lively company. Families will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the option to catch big games on TV.
Days 7–8: Carmel & Monterey Bay
Why It’s Great for Families:
Between the storybook charm of Carmel and the marine magic of Monterey, this coastal stretch is ideal for curious young minds and beach-loving parents.
Where to Stay: Carmel Valley Ranch – Luxury meets nature, with suites perfect for families, plus hiking trails, animal encounters, and s’mores kits.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Monterey Bay Aquarium: Explore the wonders of the ocean, including playful sea otters, towering kelp forests, and jellyfish exhibits. You can even feed the animals or join behind-the-scenes tours.
Whale Watching: Take a boat tour around Monterey Bay to spot whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures. These waters are home to migrating humpback and blue whales.
Carmel Beach: Carmel's wide, soft sand beach is perfect for building sandcastles, playing in the surf, or having a family picnic with a spectacular view.
17-Mile Drive: Drive this scenic route, which takes you along dramatic cliffs, past beautiful golf courses, and past the famous Lone Cypress tree. It’s an easy way to take in the stunning coastal scenery.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Perfect for families who enjoy hiking, with trails that offer panoramic ocean views and opportunities to spot wildlife like sea lions, otters, and migratory birds.
Lunch Recommendation #1: The Bench at The Lodge at Pebble Beach – Pebble Beach
Location: Overlooking the 18th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links
Why it’s great for families: Spacious seating, panoramic views of the Pacific, and a relaxed upscale vibe that welcomes kids without compromising on quality. This is a must-stop for its unbeatable coastal scenery and wood-fired menu. The kids will enjoy comfort classics like burgers and flatbreads, while adults can savor fresh, California-inspired cuisine. The outdoor terrace is ideal for a long lunch while the kids roam the adjacent green space.
Lunch Recommendation #2: Alta Bakery + Café – Downtown Monterey
Location: Inside the historic Cooper Molera Adobe complex
Why it’s great for families: Counter-service makes it easy with kids, and there’s a beautiful courtyard where families can spread out and enjoy their meals. Known for their artisan baked goods and elevated café fare, this is a perfect stop before or after a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The space is relaxed, and the menu offers something for everyone, including delicious options for picky eaters.
Dinner Recommendation #1: La Bicyclette – Carmel-by-the-Sea
Location: On Dolores Street between 7th and 8th
Why it’s great for families: Cozy, European bistro atmosphere with a casual attitude and plenty of shareable dishes. Staff are warm and welcoming to kids. This charming spot is a local favorite for wood-fired pizzas, seasonal pastas, and hearty mains. The small dining room makes for an intimate dinner, but families are embraced here and the relaxed pace makes for a lovely end to the day.
Dinner Recommendation #2: The Whaling Station Steakhouse – Monterey
Location: Cannery Row, just above McAbee Beach
Why it’s great for families: Classic steakhouse menu in an old-school Monterey setting. Great service, hearty portions, and a kids’ menu to match. For families who enjoy a more traditional sit-down meal, The Whaling Station offers a memorable dinner experience with classic surf and turf, tableside Caesar salad, and rich desserts. The staff are happy to accommodate kids and make the whole family feel welcome.
Days 9–10: Morro Bay (Pismo Beach Area)
Why It’s Great for Families:
With gentle waters, active sea life, and a laid-back vibe, Morro Bay is the perfect midpoint for slowing down and soaking up the California coast. It’s a haven for nature lovers and kayak enthusiasts alike.
Where to Stay: Sand Castle Hotel on the Beach – Casual, comfy, and just steps from the sand.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Kayaking in Morro Bay: Rent kayaks and take a guided tour through the bay’s calm waters, spotting sea otters, harbor seals, and a wide variety of birds.
Morro Rock: Hike around the base of this towering volcanic rock and watch the seals basking on the rocks.
Morro Bay State Park: Take a stroll or bike ride through this beautiful state park, which features miles of trails, great birdwatching, and family-friendly picnic areas.
Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove: Depending on the time of year, you can visit the grove where thousands of monarch butterflies overwinter each year.
Lunch: Giovanni’s Fish Market – Order fresh fish ‘n chips or clam chowder and eat dockside.
Dinner: Taco Temple – A local legend with massive portions of delicious Cali-Mex fare.
Days 11–13: Santa Barbara
Why It’s Great for Families:
Santa Barbara has it all—sun, sand, and Spanish architecture. It’s relaxed, refined, and makes an excellent base for marine excursions and lazy beach days.
Where to Stay: Hotel Californian or Ritz Carlton Bacara – Both are oceanside with top-tier amenities and lots of space for families.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Channel Islands National Park: Take a boat ride to these islands, where you can kayak through sea caves and observe marine life like sea lions, whales, and dolphins.
Santa Barbara Zoo: This charming zoo is great for families, with close-up animal encounters, a carousel, and stunning views of the coastline.
Stearns Wharf: Stroll along this iconic pier, enjoy some ice cream, and watch the fishermen at work. You can also go on a glass-bottom boat tour to view marine life.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: Explore this beautiful garden with kids, offering miles of easy trails, great for families to enjoy together.
Winery Visit: Many wineries around Santa Barbara are family-friendly, offering spacious grounds where kids can run around while parents enjoy a tasting.
Lunch: Shoreline Beach Café – Beachfront dining with sand under your toes.
Dinner: The Lark – Trendy yet welcoming, with shared plates that work great for families who love variety.
Days 14–16: Los Angeles
Why It’s Great for Families:
From surfing and skateboarding to movie magic and iconic sights, L.A. is the grand finale of your California adventure. Whether your family is full of thrill-seekers or movie buffs, this city delivers.
Where to Stay: Choose between:
The Peninsula Beverly Hills – An elegant, five-star property known for impeccable service, a rooftop pool, and spacious suites perfect for families looking for a luxurious end to their California adventure.
The Beverly Hilton – A Beverly Hills icon with a more relaxed vibe, offering connecting rooms, a classic California pool scene, and close proximity to great dining and shopping.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Surfing Lessons at Venice Beach: Your family can take a private lesson with a professional instructor, perfect for beginners.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Enjoy VIP access with skip-the-line privileges, explore themed rides like Harry Potter’s Wizarding World, and meet your favorite characters.
Skateboarding with Locals: Visit local skate parks for a hands-on experience with a pro skater. Learn about L.A.’s skateboarding history and give it a try!
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Walk down this iconic street and check out the famous stars on the pavement. It's a must-see for movie buffs.
Griffith Observatory & Hike: Hike up to this historic observatory for spectacular views of the city, then explore its interactive exhibits about space and science.
Lunch: Joan’s on Third – A market-style eatery with sandwiches, salads, and the best housemade desserts.
Dinner: The Ivy – Upscale but warm and inviting, with a charming patio and a great menu for adults and kids alike. Think handmade pastas, grilled seafood, and comforting classics.
Returning Home: Before heading to the airport, make sure to return your rental car at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). From there, you’ll catch your flight home, bringing back all the incredible memories from your California adventure!
Ready to Hit the Road?
This 16-day California itinerary offers the ultimate blend of coastline, culture, and adventure for families. With iconic landmarks, immersive nature experiences, and just the right amount of luxury! We can help you along the way to make this itinerary not so over whelming! Reach out and tell us that you would love to book your own California family road trip!
