California Vacations with Kids

Near the California coast halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo has much to offer as a family getaway, including some affordable -- and free-- fun things to do. Nearby beaches offer tide pools, sand dunes, and chances to see seals, sea lions, sea otters, and hundreds of elephant seals.

Here's a novel way to get an extended family or group of friends together: rent a large houseboat with all the comforts of home (and maybe a waterslide on the back.) This guest article describes a family houseboating getaway on the California Delta, which has thousands of miles of waterways in the San Joaquin Valley.

An overview of family travel ideas in the Golden State, including the popular Yosemite National Park.

California offers a huge range of choices for spring break getaways: beach vacations and theme parks in southern California, sightseeing in San Francisco and the Bay Area, and ski resorts in the eastern part of the state.

Southern California offers the chance to combine beach time with theme park time at Dsneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood. Meanwhile, northern California has some stunningly scenic beaches, but note that the sea is too cold for more than a quick dip, even in summer-time.

About.com's Guide for California Travel has many more ideas for trips, including "Best Things to Do by Location", "California for Nature Lovers", and more.