Thinking about visiting cities in southern California? You’re in luck. There are many family-friendly cities in southern California that boast breathtaking views, food, and attractions for all!
Few places offer as much to see and do as California. But for families visiting the Golden State for the first time, deciding which places to visit, sights to see, and activities to experience can be daunting, to say the least.
In fact, you can spend your next ten family vacations in California and still have plenty left for next time. The state is that big, and the list of options is that large. So what are families to do, with so many options?
The best approach to visiting California is breaking the gigantic Golden State into smaller, more manageable chunks. As fate would have it, California is already divided into two general sections.
These would be northern California, which includes cities like San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento, and southern California, which – you guessed it – covers the southernmost part of the state. There are so many different cities in southern California!
For the sake of simplicity, we’ve decided to focus exclusively on Southern California. Furthermore, we opted to focus on six cities, all of which offer families plenty of fun and excitement.
So, let’s get on with it then! The following article includes a list of our top 6 family-friendly cities in southern California you should definitely visit this summer.
Family-Friendly Cities in Southern California
San Diego
The first on our list of cities in southern California is San Diego. Nicknamed “America’s Finest City,” San Diego does a great job living up to its reputation.
For starters, you’ll discover some of the world’s prettiest beaches and the best Mexican restaurants north of the border. But that’s not all! There’s whale watching year-round, a world-class zoo, and The New Children’s Museum, all waiting for you and your kids.
In fact, the San Diego Zoo holds over 12,000 animals to view and learn about! The cost ranges from $52 for children ages 3-10 and $62 for an adults day pass. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity for the kids, this is it!
If mom and dad get the chance to enjoy some time alone, San Diego concerts and comedy clubs are the way to go. And if there’s enough time after the show ends, consider ending the evening with a stroll through the Gaslamp District, where the city’s best restaurants and nightclubs are located.
Carlsbad
Next up is Carlsbad. Located 35 miles north of San Diego, Carlsbad is another southern California city known for its beautiful coastline. It’s number 2 on our list of cities in southern California because of its coastlines and attractions!
Additionally, younger family members will probably be most excited to see Legoland California, which is located in Carlsbad. It is a theme park, resort, and aquarium all in one. It is a children’s paradise, that’s for sure! Who doesn’t love legos?
Is there a golfer in the family? If so, perhaps they’d enjoy a tour of one of several golf manufacturing facilities headquartered in Carlsbad. Afterwards it can be followed by 18 holes at one of the wonderful golf courses nearby.
Speaking of golf courses in Carlsbad, w e’d recommend the course called The Crossings at Carlsbad. It has a waterfront view and is simply gorgeous!