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Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California

Legoland California is the ultimate destination for LEGO lovers.
Legoland California is the ultimate destination for LEGO lovers.

Whether it's the family-friendly wineries and giant redwoods of the San Francisco Bay Area, the beautiful beaches and famous theme parks of Los Angeles and Orange County, the desert vibes of Palm Springs, or the iconic zoo and beauty of San Diego, California is full of awesome getaways for families. Luckily, there are also tons of kid-friendly family resorts to stay in while you explore everything the Golden State has to offer.

Here are 22 of the best family resorts in California, including top picks in LA and the OC, San Diego and its surrounding areas, Palm Springs, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Check out our Family-Friendly Resorts & Hotels Guide for even more great places to stay, no matter where your next family vacation takes you.

The Langham Huntington, Pasadena: Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California
Your family will feel truly pampered at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena.

Best Family Resorts in Los Angeles

1. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena — Pasadena

Little princes and princesses will feel like royalty during a stay at this luxurious, castle-like hotel, known for its lavish Afternoon Tea served Thursdays through Sundays. When booking, sign your kids (ages 12 and under) up for the Langham Huntington Kids Program for $30. They'll get a free kids' dinner each night of their stay at the on-site Terrace restaurant, a scavenger hunt booklet with a free prize upon completion, and a robe and slippers in the room. The Langham also has a swimming pool, free bike rentals, and other amenities. Your family will truly feel pampered.

Why we chose it: Setting, Afternoon Tea, and kids' program fit for royalty

2. Magic Castle Hotel — Hollywood

Guests at this apartment-style hotel gain access to the legendary (and invitation-only) Magic Castle. Just be sure to stay during the weekend, as kids are only allowed inside the exclusive club for Saturday and Sunday brunch. The hotel itself offers some features that little Houdinis will find otherworldly: a free snack bar stocked with candy, chips, and more; a free popsicle delivered poolside by calling the "Popsicle Hotline"; and an in-house magician on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This budget-friendly hotel also offers free continental breakfast.

Why we chose it: Access to the exclusive Magic Castle, a clubhouse for the Academy of Magical Arts

3. Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza — Downtown Los Angeles

The Omni Los Angeles is the ideal spot to combine leisure time by the pool and cultural visits to the nearby Disney Concert Hall, Museum of Contemporary Art, and The Broad. Through the Omni Junior Chefs program, kids receive a welcome tote that doubles as a lunch bag filled with organic snacks, crayons, an activity book, and more. The best part, though, is that the hotel's rates are below those of other luxury hotels.

Why we chose it: Ideal downtown location; welcome tote for kids; competitive rates

RELATED: Best Hotels in Los Angeles for a Family Vacation

Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California: Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
In addition to its family-friendly amenities, the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City offers a free shuttle to Universal Studios.

4. Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City — Universal City

This hotel made our list due to its proximity to Universal Studios—it's right next door, and guests can take a free shuttle (or a short walk) to get to the theme park. On days when you need a break from the action, the hotel has an outdoor pool, a gym, and an on-site restaurant with a kids' menu. Both rooms and suites are available, and there are even pet-friendly rooms if you want to bring the dog.

Why we chose it: Ideal location next to Universal Studios

5. The Beverly Hills Hotel — Beverly Hills

Soak up the glitz and glamour of the Beverly Hills Hotel, a longtime favorite hangout of Hollywood stars. The sprawling 12-acre property features a large pool with underwater music, free bike rentals, and a tropical vibe. Upon arrival, you can pose for a family photo on the fancy red carpet in front of the hotel's celebrity step. At check-in, traveling tots get a personal V-VIP credit card they can use to redeem free juices and sodas at The Fountain Coffee Room and The Cabana Cafe (both of which have great kids' menus).

Why we chose it: Rich history as a celebrity hot spot

RELATED: Palos Verdes with Kids: 25 Best Things To Do in Palos Verdes, CA

Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California: Terranea Resort
Relax at the pool while overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Terranea Resort.

6. Terranea Resort

This luxurious spa resort overlook the Pacific Ocean on the lush Palos Verdes Peninsula. Parents will love the spa and the oceanfront golf course, but there is so much for kids to do as well—four pools, art classes, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, surf lessons, tide pools, archery, horseback riding, and so much more (most cost an extra fee). There's also a fantastic kids' club for ages 3-10. Accommodations include guest rooms, bungalows, and villas. Book a stay at Terranea now.

Why we chose it: Spectacular views and loads of family activities

7. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows — Santa Monica

This luxurious hotel is the perfect place for families to stay for a Los Angeles beach vacation. Kids ages 4-12 receive a Wild Republic stuffed animal, a robe, and a welcome platter of healthy snacks. Those ages 2-8 will even find their names spelled out in the bathtub with colorful bath sponges. The lush outdoor pool offers dinner and a movie on Sundays. And in the summer, the hotel provides guests with free beach volleyball, sand toys, boogie boards, and butler service on a private area of Santa Monica State Beach, which they are whisked to in hotel Jeeps.

Why we chose it: Awesome freebies for kids; great pool; access to a private beach area

Best Family Resorts in Orange County

8. Disneyland Hotel — Anaheim

While three hotels are part of Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Hotel is the OG: It opened in 1955 because Walt Disney felt the theme park need an upscale hotel next to it. And Disneyland Hotel continues to be a great choice for families, with two pools, two water slides, a splash pad, various family activities, Disney-themed suites, and the iconic Goofy's Kitchen breakfast buffet complete with character visits. Your family will be fully immersed in the Disney experience!

Why we chose it: Original Disneyland hotel with a famous character breakfast

RELATED: The Best Anaheim Hotels Near Disneyland for Families

Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California: CA Travel-Howard-Johnson-by-Wyndham-Anaheim-Hotel-and-Water-Playground-castaway_pool_1.avif
The Castaway Cove water park is the highlight of staying at the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel.

9. Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel and Water Playground — Anaheim

If you need some separation from Disney madness during your Disneyland vacation, the Howard Johnson has won numerous awards from travelers and experts alike. Only an eight-minute walk from the Disneyland Resort, this hotel features a pirate-themed water playground with water cannons, slides, a drench bucket, and more. Rooms and suites sleep up to five people and feature free WiFi and premium Keurig coffeemakers. An on-site restaurant and market made feeding the family convenient.

Why we chose it: Awesome water playground

10. Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa — Huntington Beach

Families will love the lagoon-style pool and water playground at this oceanfront resort in Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City, USA. There are also daily koi fish feedings, mermaid-tail swim lessons, and other fun resort activities, and guests can rent bikes to ride on the 10-mile paved path along the beach. But with umbrellas, beach chairs, and towels provided for free, plus evening beach bonfires, families may never want to leave the sand. Both rooms and suites are available.

Why we chose it: Prime beach location; great pool and water playground

11. The Resort at Pelican Hill — Newport Beach

The Tuscan-themed Resort at Pelican Hill is nestled in the foothills along the southern Orange County coast. It has a unique circular swimming pool that's inspired by ancient Roman architecture, along with two oceanfront golf courses and a relaxing spa. Just down the hill is one of Southern California's best beaches, Crystal Cove, a great place for kids to explore tide pools. Seasonal children's activities include princess teas, nature hikes, art workshops, and more. Stay in a room, a bungalow, or a villa.

Why we chose it: Coliseum-inspired pool; breathtaking location; fantastic beach

RELATED: Our 100 Best Family Vacation Destinations

Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California: Hotel del Coronado
For a truly memorable vacation, visit the world-famous Hotel del Coronado on Coronado Island.

Best Family Resorts in and Near San Diego

12. Hotel del Coronado — Coronado

Bike, surf, or lounge poolside or on the sand at this world-famous hotel on Coronado Island. Kids ages 5-12 can spend a day or a half-day at Ocean Explorers, which features an underwater aquarium with an interactive tide pool where children can take part in fun activities and lessons. Other resort activities include movies on the beach, a seasonal beachfront ice skating rink, private sunset beach bonfires with s'mores, and so much more (though many activities cost an additional fee). Accommodations range from guest rooms to cozy cottages to sprawling villas.

Why we chose it: Gorgeous location; loads of family activities; fantastic kids' club

13. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego — San Diego

This waterfront resort is located right in the heart of downtown San Diego, giving families close proximity to world-class restaurants, Petco Park (where the San Diego Padres play), the Seaport Village shopping area, a children's museum, and so much more. The hotel also offers panoramic city views, two rooftop swimming pools, basketball and tennis courts, and other amenities. You can request a free play yard in all rooms and suites, as well as a rollaway bed in most rooms and suites for an additional fee.

Why we chose it: Downtown waterfront location; rooftop pools

14. LEGOLAND California Hotel — Carlsbad

This is the ultimate getaway for LEGO fans, thanks to its prime location next to LEGOLAND San Diego. Not only do hotel guests enjoy early access to the park, but it's also home to a massive LEGO play structure, an arcade, themed hotel rooms (Adventure, Kingdom, Pirate, LEGO Friends, and NINJAGO), and a heated outdoor swimming pool with life-sized floating bricks. Each room has a mini-fridge, a separate kids' sleeping area, a treasure-hunt chest with LEGO surprises, and LEGO play and build areas. Guests enjoy a free hot breakfast buffet every morning.

Why we chose it: A LEGO-lover's paradise

15. La Jolla Shores Hotel — La Jolla

This affordable, family-owned hotel is located steps from the beach and offers complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels. There's also a year-round heated outdoor pool with a children's wading pool and poolside dining, tennis courts, and seasonal family games and activities. All of the resort's 128 rooms have direct beach access and scenic coastal views, and you can even try to snag one with a kitchenette.

Why we chose it: Family-owned; steps from the beach; heated outdoor pool with children's wading pool

RELATED: Family-Friendly Spa Resorts Near Los Angeles

Best Kid-Friendly Family Resorts in California: Omni Ranci Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Both kids and adults will enjoy Splatshtopia water park at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa.

Best Family Resorts Near Palm Springs

16. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa — Rancho Mirage

This gorgeous golf resort is home to several pools and Splashtopia water park, which features a 425-foot lazy river, two 100-foot water slides, play areas with fountains and sprinklers, and more. The resort also offers daily kids' activities such as slime-making, arts and crafts, and an evening drop-off kids' camp (the camp and certain activities cost extra). Accommodations include both rooms and suites.

Why we chose it: Water park; daily kids' activities; evening kids' camp

17. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa — Palm Desert

Not only is this resort absolutely stunning, it's also loaded with activities and amenities to entertain the whole family. There are several pools, two 18-hole championship golf courses, tennis courts, a fantastic spa and fitness center, an arcade, family lawn games, and several restaurants (including an on-site Starbucks). A small ferry takes guests for a cruise around the hotel lagoon, and kids will love visiting parrots in the lobby and the flamingos at the entrance. Both rooms and suites are available.

Why we chose it: Tons of family activities; resident parrots and flamingos

18. Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa — Indian Wells

Kids will go nuts over this resort's awesome water park, which features two winding water slides, a 450-foot lazy river, and a splash pad. There are also several temperature-controlled pools, tennis and pickleball courts, bicycle trails and rentals, jogging paths, four on-site restaurants, a deluxe spa, and seasonal family movie nights. Choose from a variety of rooms, suites, and villas.

Why we chose it: Super-cool water park

Best Family Resorts in the San Francisco Bay Area

19. The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco — San Francisco

If you want to stay in San Francisco itself and don't mind a splurge, the Ritz-Carlton is the way to go thanks to its famed Ritz Kids program. Children receive a welcome packet with a coloring book, colored pencils, and a scavenger hunt kit at check-in, along with kid-friendly activities and special children's menus throughout the hotel. The Ritz's Nob Hill location right next to Union Square makes it easy for families to explore the best parts of the city. Luxurious rooms and suites make for a very comfortable stay.

Why we chose it: Iconic Ritz Kids program

20. Vino Bello Resort — Napa

Yes, you can visit California's wine country with kids, and this reasonably priced Napa resort would make the perfect home base. There's a heated outdoor pool, a water playground for kids, a fitness center, and even a free bottle of wine for the grown-ups at check-in. Studios and suites sleep up to six people. Vino Bello is only a short drive from many of the area's top-rated wineries and 10 minutes from downtown Napa.

Why we chose it: Pool; water playground; affordability

21. Carmel Valley Ranch — Carmel-By-The-Sea

With a top-rated golf course, a fantastic spa, and great restaurants, adults love the Carmel Valley Ranch. But kids are the real guests of honor at this 500-acre oasis, which offers up a Munchkin Menu full of children's items (free for use during their stay) including BOB strollers and other baby gear, board games, coloring books, and more. There's also a family pool and splash zone, s'mores, hiking, and many paid kids' activities such as an hourly kids' camp, archery lessons, horseback riding, and picnics with donkeys. Suites of all sizes are available.

Why we chose it: Tons of kids' activities; Munchkin Menu

22. Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa — Monterey

In addition to its prime waterfront location near the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium and the famed shopping and entertainment district Cannery Row, this luxurious resort has a fantastic kids' program that's free for young guests. Through the Plaza Explorers Program, kids receive a coastal discovery kit filled with an educational tide-pool bingo card, binoculars, and exploration gear and can earn prizes for completing activities. BMW X7s are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Why we chose it: Close to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row; awesome kids' program

All photos courtesy of the resorts/hotels

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Places featured in this article:


Omni Los Angeles Hotel At California Plaza

The Langham Huntington, Pasadena

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
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