Southern California Vacation Rentals For Families
Another beautiful day in Southern California
Southern California calls to vacationers with it’s pleasant climate and high activity level. Three of the most popular vacation spots in this part of the U.S. are Anaheim, Los Angeles and San Diego. There is no end to fun-filled family destinations. So, grab your sunscreen, book your California vacation rental and let’s get going.
Catalina Island
Just off the coast of Southern California is an island that is covered with lush forests. Catalina has secluded coves surrounded by ocean with abundant sea life, exceptionally clear waters, and a wide variety of colorful marine life. Within just a few miles of Avalon, you can see a sea lion colony, thriving kelp forests, and schools of flying fish. Whales, dolphin, flying fish and sea lions can also be spotted from boats near Catalina Island. Its only a short ferry ride to this very special Southern California retreat.
Legoland
If your children have used their imagination to create buildings, super heroes or flying inventions with the little lego pieces, they will love Legoland. This theme park is designed specifically for kids between the ages of two and twelve, or adults with a kid’s heart. There are boat rides, roller coasters, a driving school, a club house, water park and much more. U.S. landmarks have been created with lego bricks in Miniland USA. There are plenty of performances to take in when mom and dad need some sitting down time. Legoland is located in Carlsbad, just a half hour north of San Diego. After a fun day at Legoland, enjoy other Carlsbad family attractions, such as Carlsbad beaches, Carlsbad Children’s Museum and Sea Life Aquarium.
Disneyland
You could hardly leave out a Disneyland visit when you are vacationing, with the family, in Southern California. If you haven’t been there since you were a kid yourself, you’ll be surprised to know there are now two theme parks. Of course, there is the original Magic Kingdom, but also enjoy Disney’s California Adventure. You’ll want to plan to visit both destinations, in Anaheim, during your trip. Busy seasons for Disneyland are summer months, Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you want to miss the crowds, choose an alternate time to visit. However, sometimes the crowds are half the fun.
La Brea Tar Pits
This is a favorite Southern California Destination for kids. The enormous collection of ancient bones and bubbling water that cover the tar pits will keep, both children and adults interested for hours. See reconstructed skeletons of animals, some dating back to the last ice age, such as mammoths, saber-toothed cats and dire wolves. It is especially budget conscious, and perfect after you’ve spent the bulk of the vacation budget at some of the more expensive destinations. The tar pits are located in Hancock Park in Los Angeles.
Sea World
There is so much to enjoy at Sea World, in San Diego, but the biggest attraction is the killer whale pool. It’s hard to believe these orcas are considered killers, as they interact and play with the on-looking audience. The sea lions, dolphins, sea turtles and other sea life are fun to observe and educational to learn about. Don’t miss the river ride and the splash-down roller coaster. They will both cool you off on a hot summer day. After a day at Sea World, enjoy some of the other San Diego family attractions, such as the Wild Animal Park and the San Diego Zoo.
Magic Mountain
Located only 25 minutes north of Hollywood, children of all ages will enjoy this theme park that caters to the roller-coaster fanatics. Here you will find over 15 roller-coasters and dozens of other attractions throughout the 260 acre park. A visit to Magic Mountain should also include its sister park Six Flags Hurrican Park (the ultimate water park)
Free or Inexpensive Magical Destinations
Calico Ghost Town will make the family feel as though they’ve stepped back in time. It sits atop a hill that overlooks the Mojave Desert. Take a ride on the railroad, pan for gold or tour the Maggie Mine. The California Science Center, located south of Los Angeles in Exposition Park, is full of hands-on science exhibits. Best yet, the main exhibit galleries are free. Griffith Observatory has three floors of exhibits to investigate. Don’t miss the Planetarium Theater. Parking an admission are free. The observatory is located in the Hollywood Hills, above Los Angeles.
Places to Stay
There are many national chains throughout Southern California including Hyatt, Sheraton, Holiday Inn. For longer stays and vacations with families, you might want to consider renting a vacation rental property. Check out the many vacation properties in Southern California.
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