As a dad, summer is one of my favorite seasons. There’s just something magical about the long days, the smell of sunscreen, and the sound of kids’ laughter echoing in the backyard. But let me tell you, there’s one thing that truly defines summer for my family: ice cream. And not just any ice cream—California ice cream. It’s a whole different level of creamy, dreamy goodness. So, if you're planning a road trip, or even just looking for inspiration to spice up your freezer this summer, let me share a list of 10 must-try ice cream flavors across California that your family will absolutely love.
1. Salted Caramel from Bi-Rite Creamery (San Francisco)
I’m kicking off this list with a classic—but oh, it’s anything but ordinary. Bi-Rite’s salted caramel is rich, smooth, and hasthe right balance of sweet and salty. One taste, and my kids were hooked. It’s perfect for those family strolls through Golden Gate Park after a day of exploring the city.
2. Avocado Ice Cream from Sweet Rose Creamery (Los Angeles)
Yep, you read that right—avocado ice cream. It’s creamy, lightly sweetened, and has a subtle flavor that even the pickiest eater in my family couldn’t resist. Sweet Rose Creamery knows how to turn this California staple into a surprisingly delicious treat.
3. Honey Lavender from McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams (Santa Barbara)
This flavor was a wildcard for us, but wow—it’s incredible. The floral notes of lavender paired with the natural sweetness of honey create something truly special. My wife said it was “like summer in a scoop,” and I have to agree. It’s a littlefancier than what my kids usually go for, but even they couldn’t get enough.
4. Buttermilk Blueberry Pie from Salt & Straw (Multiple Locations)
If your family loves pie as much as mine does, this one’s a no-brainer. Salt & Straw has perfected the art of turning pie into ice cream. With chunks of buttery pie crust, swirls of blueberry jam, and that tangy buttermilk base, this flavor went straight to the top of our list.
5. Mexican Hot Chocolate from La Michoacana Plus (Various Locations)
This one’s a bit of a spicy adventure, and let me tell you, it’s worth it. The rich chocolate flavor is elevated with a hint of cinnamon and a kick of chili. My oldest wasn’t sure about it at first, but after one bite, he declared it “the coolest spicy food ever.”
6. Brown Butter Cookie Dough from Humphry Slocombe (San Francisco)
Ah, cookie dough—what kid (or dad, honestly) doesn’t love it? Humphry Slocombe takes it to the next level with brown butter, giving it a nutty richness that’s absolutely addictive. If you’re ever in San Francisco, don’t miss this one.
7. Ube Ice Cream from Wanderlust Creamery (Los Angeles)
We discovered ube—purple yam—ice cream on a whim, and it’s now a family favorite. It’s sweet, nutty, and oh-so-vibrant in color. My youngest was mesmerized by the bright purple scoop and happily declared it her “unicorn ice cream.”
8. Peach Cobbler from Fentons Creamery (Oakland)
Peaches scream summer, don’t they? Fentons Creamery brings this flavor to life with chunks of real peaches and crumbly cobbler bits folded into a creamy base. It’s like a Southern dessert in a cone, and it’s a hit for all ages.
9. Pistachio Amaretto from Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream (Various Locations)
Not all pistachio ice creams are created equal, let me tell you. Handel’s version has a hint of amaretto that adds depth and complexity to the flavor. It’s sophisticated, but still kid-approved. Even my normally vanilla-only daughter couldn’t resist a second scoop.
10. S’mores Ice Cream from The Penny Ice Creamery (Santa Cruz)
No campfire? No problem. The Penny Ice Creamery brings all the best parts of s’mores into their ice cream—graham crackers, gooey marshmallow, and melty chocolate. It’s nostalgic, indulgent, and absolutely perfect for summer.
Why California Does Ice Cream Best
So, why is California such a hot spot (or should I say, cool spot?) for amazing ice cream flavors? It’s the combination of innovation, fresh ingredients, and a culture that’s all about celebrating creativity. Many of the ice cream shops on this listwork directly with local farmers to source the best produce, dairy, and other ingredients. That means every scoop is packed with flavor that feels uniquely Californian.
Tips for Your Ice Cream Adventures
If you’re planning to explore some of these flavors in person, here’s some advice from one dad to another:
- Go early: The most popular ice cream shops often have long lines, especially on weekends. Beat the rush by going mid-afternoon or early evening.
- Try a flight: Many places offer tasting flights, so you can sample multiple flavors without committing to just one. It’s a great way to please everyone in the family.
- Bring napkins (lots of them): Let’s be real—kids and ice cream are a messy combination. Be prepared.
- Snap a picture: The vibrant, unique colors of some of these ice creams are Instagram-worthy. My kids love looking back at the photos and remembering our “ice cream adventures.”
The Joy of Sharing Ice Cream as a Family
There’s something so pure and joyful about sharing ice cream with your family. It’s not just about the flavors (though those are a big part of the fun). It’s about the memories you create together—laughing over who got the biggest scoop, taking that first bite of a flavor you weren’t sure you’d like, and racing to finish before it melts in the California sun.
So, this summer, I encourage you to take your family on your own ice cream journey. Whether it’s a road trip to some of the spots on this list or recreating similar flavors at home, make it an adventure. Trust me, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a cone in hand, surrounded by the people you love most.
