Southern California is made for family vacations. Draped with golden beaches, the region has hundreds of family-friendly attractions and good weather to enjoy it all.

The most popular family draw, of course, is Disneyland. But there are dozens of other experiences that make Southern California a must-see family destination. Here are recommendations for a three-day California adventure.

Day 1
Surf City, USA
Huntington Beach, California

If your little ones are thrilled with sun and sand, begin your trip in Huntington Beach, often called Surf City, USA. Just 35 miles (56 km) south of Los Angeles, this coastal community has 200,000 residents who are lucky enough to call this sunny stretch of coastline home. The weather is great year-round. December is the coolest time of year, when it can reach down into the 40s, although the average is in the 60s. 

The ocean breezes make kite flying a snap.

Base camp can be set up at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, which is happily located across the street from the beach (a bridge walkway connects the two).

This beautiful resort is kid-friendly from the get-go and includes Slyders, a water playground with slides and a poolside restaurant.

Camp Hyatt can keep kids entertained with dive-in movies, hair braiding and other activities when parents want to have a little time on their own.

Standard rooms are large but you might want to consider a junior suite, which has a sofa sleeper and extra room for the kids. 

Dozens of nearby attractions, including Knott’s Berry Farm and Aquarium of the Pacific, may tempt you away, but kick back and enjoy Mother Nature right here on the beach.

Rent bikes and helmets from Toes on the Nose, located at the Hyatt Regency, and take off along the wide bike path that follows the shore. Stop for lunch at Duke’s Huntington Beach for scrumptious seafood and great views of the ocean. 

From there, why not buy a kite from Kite Connections, located right on the beach, and have some fun? The ocean breezes make kite flying a snap!

Or try a surfing lesson from Toes on the Nose, who offers classes on the beach right across from the Hyatt. Wetsuits and boards are provided.

If you’d rather just chill out, pack some snacks and drinks and spend the day parked on the golden sand beach. It’s what has been drawing people here for years!

At night, hang out with the kids around a beach campfire. Toes on the Nose offers bonfires and s’mores.