As a dad, summer vacations mean more than just a break from work—it’s my chance to make memories with my family that will (hopefully) last a lifetime. There’s something magical about watching your kids explore new places, experience new adventures, and bond in ways that only travel can allow. And when it comes to family vacations, California has proven time and time again to be the ultimate playground.
From sun-soaked beaches to majestic mountains and even desert oases, California has resorts that cater to every kind of family. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of packing up the SUV, herding the kids (and their endless bags of snacks), and heading to some of the most stunning resorts in the Golden State. Some offer adventure, some offer relaxation, and others offer a mix of both—but all are designed to make family time unforgettable. Let me take you through some of my favorite discoveries and why they’ve earned a spot on any summer bucket list.
1. A Slice of Paradise in Laguna Beach
One summer, we made our way to Laguna Beach, home to some of the most incredible coastal resorts I’ve ever seen. I booked a stay at the Montage Laguna Beach, and let me tell you—it’s a dad's dream when it comes to balancing luxury and family fun.
The resort sits right on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with paths that lead directly to the beach. My kids spent hours building sandcastles and chasing waves, while my wife and I managed to sneak in a little time at the spa (a rare but glorious treat).
What makes Montage stand out is the attention to families. They had kid-friendly pools, programs like sand art and scavenger hunts, and plenty of dining options that worked for picky eaters. Watching the sunset from our balcony while the kids were happily exhausted from a day of outdoor fun? Absolute perfection.
2. Tahoe’s Alpine Escape
When we weren’t in the mood for beaches, we headed up to Lake Tahoe for a completely different kind of summer escape. The Ritz-Carlton at Northstar is nestled in the mountains and combines natural beauty with plenty of family activities.
The location is stunning, surrounded by towering pines and crystal-clear skies. But what really won us over were the endless options to keep everyone entertained. My kids couldn’t get enough of the gondola rides and hiking trails, while I was thrilled to introduce them to kayaking on the alpine lake.
One evening, we sat around the outdoor fire pits, roasting marshmallows and telling stories, and it reminded me what summer vacations are really about—connecting with your kids in the simplest, purest ways.
3. Desert Adventures in Palm Springs
Palm Springs might not seem like the first place you’d think of for a family resort, but trust me—it’s worth considering. We decided to give the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort a try, and it was a hit with everyone.
The crown jewel here is Splashtopia, their on-site water park. Lazy rivers, water slides, and splash zones meant my kids were entertained for hours while I lounged poolside with something cold in hand. But there’s more to Palm Springs than just the resort. We took a tram ride up to Mount San Jacinto, where the weather was cooler and the views were spectacular. It was a contrast to the desert heat and gave us a chance to stretch our legs on a few easy trails.
4. Seaside Bliss in Monterey
Monterey is another gem that remains close to my heart. One summer, we checked into the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, and it felt like stepping into a postcard. The hotel sits right on Cannery Row, with views of the ocean that make you want to linger forever.
What made Monterey special wasn’t just the hotel itself but everything there was to do nearby. We visited the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, and my kids were mesmerized by the jellyfish and sea otter exhibits. We also went on a whale-watching tour, which was one of the most awe-inspiring experiences of my life. Seeing my kids’ faces light up as they spotted humpback whales breaching the water was priceless.
5. Family Fun in Carlsbad
If you’ve got younger kids (or even older ones who still adore amusement parks), you can’t go wrong with a trip to Carlsbad. We stayed at the LEGOLAND Hotel, which is basically a dream come true for any LEGO-loving family.
The rooms are themed, from pirate adventures to kingdom escapes, and it felt like stepping into a LEGO set. But the real highlight was, of course, the park itself. We spent an entire day exploring, riding roller coasters, and marveling at the intricate LEGO sculptures. The water park area was a lifesaver on a hot afternoon, and I appreciated how the entire place was designed with families in mind.
6. Big Bear Lake’s Rustic Charm
For a more relaxed and rustic adventure, Big Bear Lake was a fantastic choice. We stayed at the Big Bear Frontier, a charming lakeside resort that gave us a cozy cabin experience while still offering resort-like amenities.
Our days were spent boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake, and at night, we had campfires under the stars. It was the kind of trip that reminded me of my own childhood summers—simple, outdoorsy, and full of laughter. My kids loved the sense of freedom they felt, and I loved seeing them unplug from screens for a while.
7. Wine Country with a Family Twist
When most people think of Napa Valley, they probably imagine romantic getaways and wine tastings. But we discovered that Napa also has a family-friendly side. We stayed at the Carneros Resort and Spa, which offered private cottages with enough space for the whole family.
While my wife and I indulged in a bit of wine tasting (responsibly, of course), the kids enjoyed the resort’s pool and bike rides through the countryside. We also visited nearby family-friendly wineries where the kids could play bocce ball or explore vineyards while we enjoyed a glass of wine. It was a perfect balance of grown-up relaxation and family fun.
8. Yosemite’s Natural Splendor
No list of California destinations is complete without mentioning Yosemite National Park. While we didn’t stay at a traditional resort, the Tenaya Lodge just outside the park offered a blend of rustic charm and modern comforts.
The highlight of this trip was, without a doubt, exploring Yosemite itself. From hiking to Bridalveil Fall to standing in awe of El Capitan, every moment was unforgettable. The lodge also offered family-friendly activities like evening campfires and guided nature walks, which added to the experience.
Why California Resorts Work for Families
As a dad, I’ve come to appreciate why California’s resorts are so perfect for families. They offer more than just a place to sleep—they provide experiences. Whether it’s a beachfront location, a mountain retreat, or a desert oasis, these resorts know how to make vacations special for both kids and parents.
The variety is another big draw. No matter what your family enjoys—beaches, hiking, amusement parks, or simply relaxing by the pool—California has something to offer.
Final Thoughts
Looking back on our summers spent exploring California’s resorts, I realize how much these trips have meant to my family. They’ve given us the chance to create traditions, bond over new experiences, and see parts of the world we might never have otherwise.
If you’re a fellow dad (or mom!) thinking about your next family getaway, I can’t recommend California enough. The state’s resorts have something unique to offer every family, and you’ll come home with stories that will be told for years to come. So pack up the car, grab your kids, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. California is waiting.
