5 Laguna Beach parks to visit while waiting for the fog to clear

Laguna Beach California is a mecca for sun, surf, and sand. It's casual while still offering luxurious hotels and fine dining, relaxed while still upscale. The only downside? Families can find themselves with time to kill during spring and summer Laguna Beach mornings, waiting for the fog to clear. Where to play while you wait? Our top five park picks for Laguna Beach: Bluebird Park: A … [Read more...]

Hearst Castle State Park

Families traveling on a California Highway 1 road trip will want to stop at Hearst Castle State Park, especially if their car-load comprises of school-aged kids, tween, and teens. Visible (and impressive!) even from the highway, Hearst Castle is a half-day stop right outside San Simeon, CA. From the visitor's center located near the coastline, guests can choose from several tour options before … [Read more...]

Three Highway 1 beach pit stops from Monterey to San Simeon, CA

Some of the most beautiful coastline in the world exists on California's Highway 1 between Monterey, CA and San Simeon, CA. Directly after Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Monterey (definitely stop there before beginning your day), the way is windy and slow, but never fear: the California Highway 1 road trip is made to be savored with frequent pit stops, so even young passengers can handle the … [Read more...]

San Francisco Pier 39 attractions for kids

Families touring San Francisco could easily dedicate a full day to the busy, touristy region of Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39. And while not to replace visiting other parts of the city, a day here is well spent. We definitely suggest beginning your day with a family tour of Alcatraz Island, but this still leaves you with an afternoon and evening to fill at the wharf. Here's our picks for how to … [Read more...]

A stay at the Radisson Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

Families have hundreds of lodging options while visiting San Francisco with kids, but if they want to be in the heart of the Pier 39 action, the location of the Radisson Fisherman's Wharf can't be beat. Literally steps from the wharf, the Radisson is the only bay hotel with this prime location, with a back entrance opening on the Embarcadero. The surrounding area is busy and crowded and noisy at … [Read more...]

A stay at the Morgan Hotel, San Simeon CA

I discovered the wonderful value for families at Broughton Hospitality boutique hotels during our stay at Mill Valley CA's The Acqua, and our experience was equally positive at The Morgan Hotel, a San Simeon hotel for families. The Morgan can be found just five minutes from Hearst Castle and the Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon, and is only 45 minutes from the California wine country … [Read more...]

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Families looking for things to do in Monterey, CA or en route along Highway 1 to Big Sur should definitely stop at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Located just a few miles outside Monterey on Highway 1, Point Lobos offers great hiking with kids in Monterey, with miles of hiking trails, scenic vistas, hisorical sites, and picnic grounds in some of the most beautiful acreage I've ever seen. We … [Read more...]

A stay at Monterey’s Portola Hotel and Spa

Stepping into the spacious lobby of Monterey CA's Portola Hotel and Spa, you just might think you've taken a wrong turn and stepped back outside instead. The wide, open space is canopied with lush, live trees giving way to bright skylights, and the front desk staff is equally sunny. Upon arrival, my kids (and the adults!) were offered warm chocolate chip cookies, and the kids were ushered into the … [Read more...]