As a dad, planning a summer vacation that everyone in the family will love can be tricky. Between juggling different preferences, ages, and energy levels, finding the perfect destination takes some serious creativity. But here’s the thing—I’ve discovered the magic of staycations, and in California, they’re nothing short of amazing. You don’t need to fly to some faraway island to have a memorable family trip. California’s resorts offer everything from relaxation to adventure, all within driving distance. Better yet, they’re packed with experiences that keep kids entertained while still allowing parents (like me!) to have a moment to breathe.
After exploring a handful of these gems, I’ve put together a list of summer resort staycations that are dad-approved and definitely family-friendly. Each one offers something unique, ensuring everyone—from toddlers to teens (and us parents)—has a great time.
1. Great Wolf Lodge, Garden Grove
Let’s start with a spot that’s guaranteed to be a hit with the kids: Great Wolf Lodge. If your family loves water parks as much as mine does, this place is a no-brainer. The indoor water park is massive, with slides, wave pools, and activities for all ages. My kids couldn’t get enough of the Wolf Tail slide, while I admittedly enjoyed floating along the lazy river after the chaos.
But what I loved most? There’s more to do than just swim. The resort offers MagiQuest, an interactive game that kept my kids busy (and happy) for hours. Meanwhile, I had a chance to sneak away for a decent cup of coffee at the on-site café. It’s affordable, fun, and has something for everyone, which makes it an easy favorite.
2. Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes
When I need a family getaway that also feels like a break for me, Terranea Resort is my go-to. It’s one of those places where everything feels effortless. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the views alone are worth the trip. But what really sets it apart is the balance it strikes between kid-friendly activities and parent-approved relaxation.
While my wife and I lounged poolside or enjoyed the spa (finally!), the kids were kept entertained by the resort’s adventure camps. Think tide-pooling, kayaking, and nature walks. They even have falconry demonstrations—how cool is that? Plus, the food here is top-notch. There’s nothing quite like ending the day with a locally sourced meal while watching the sun dip into the ocean.
3. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, Carlsbad
This resort ticks all the boxes for a family staycation. For starters, there are multiple pools—some designed specifically for kids with waterslides and splash pads. My youngest couldn’t stop laughing as she zipped down the slides, while my older child gravitated toward the sandy beach pool.
Meanwhile, my wife and I took turns sneaking off to the golf course (yes, they have two of them) and the spa. The cherry on top? It’s just a short drive to LEGOLAND, so we tacked on a day there too. Pro tip: The resort offers shuttles to nearby attractions, which saved us the headache of parking.
4. Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, South Lake Tahoe
If your family is more into mountain vibes than coastal breezes, Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is unbeatable. Summer at Tahoe is magical—think hiking, paddleboarding, and lakeside picnics. My family stayed here last July, and it was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
The hotel itself is super family-oriented. The suites are spacious enough that no one feels cramped, and the breakfast buffet was a hit with my pancake-obsessed kids. During the day, we rented bikes to explore the trails around the lake, and in the evenings, we played board games by the fire pit. It’s a wholesome, outdoorsy escape that doesn’t feel overly commercialized.
5. Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort, Palm Desert
If you’re looking for a resort with endless activities for the kids and some serious pampering for the grown-ups, this is the spot. The main attraction here is the water park, complete with a lazy river and a couple of water slides. My kids loved it so much that I barely saw them the first two days of our stay.
For parents, the spa is phenomenal—one of the best I’ve experienced. And if you’re into golf, the resort has two championship courses right on-site. But what really surprised me was the resort’s family-friendly programming. They host movie nights under the stars and have a kid’s camp that offers crafts, games, and even cooking classes. It’s a win-win for everyone.
6. The Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, Solvang
This one’s a bit different from your typical resort—and that’s exactly why it’s on my list. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort offers a Western-style retreat that’s perfect for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle. It’s all about fresh air, open spaces, and embracing a slower pace.
We stayed in one of the ranch-style cottages, and my kids couldn’t get enough of horseback riding and archery. I joined them for a morning fishing trip on the private lake, which ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. Meals are served family-style, and there’s something about sitting down together after a day of outdoor adventures that brings everyone closer.
7. Carmel Valley Ranch, Carmel
For a mix of luxury and family fun, Carmel Valley Ranch is hard to beat. Nestled in wine country, it feels like a world away, but still has plenty to keep the kids busy. My little ones loved the ranch animals (goats and chickens, anyone?) and the daily s’mores by the fire pit.
Meanwhile, I took full advantage of the farm-to-table dining and the vineyard tours. The suites are spacious and cozy, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploring. And the pools? Perfect for cooling off on a warm summer afternoon This resort is a hidden gem that combines relaxation with just the right amount of adventure.
Why Staycations Work
The beauty of these California resort staycations is that they offer the best of both worlds. They’re close enough that you can skip the stress of airports and long travel days, yet they feel like a true escape. And as a dad, that convenience matters. After all, the goal is to create special memories without coming home feeling like you need another vacation to recover.
Whether it’s splashing around at Great Wolf Lodge, soaking up the ocean views at Terranea, or exploring the outdoors in Lake Tahoe, these resorts are guaranteed to deliver. Each one has been “kid-tested” (and approved) by my own family, and I can honestly say they’ve made our summers unforgettable. So, if you’re looking for inspiration for your next family getaway, give one of these spots a try. You won’t regret it!
