21 Traveling to California Tips: Surviving Road Trips with Kids Without Losing Your Mind
California, the golden state, is calling, and we’re here to help you answer! Planning a trip to the Golden State can feel overwhelming with its endless coastlines, bustling cities, and iconic landmarks spread across such a vast area.
Whether you’re dreaming of star-spotting in Hollywood, wine tasting in Napa Valley, or exploring the hiking trails through stunning national parks and other destinations , proper planning will make your California adventure truly unforgettable.
From securing the right transportation to packing for microclimates that can shift dramatically from morning to evening, especially in the mountains there’s a lot to consider when visiting this diverse state, particularly if you plan to explore national parks .
We’ve gathered some practical tips to help you navigate everything from renting a car (which is pretty much essential) to finding great deals while planning an itinerary that doesn’t leave you exhausted from trying to see too much on the hiking trails in too little time.
California has something for everyone, from beaches lined with palm trees to stunning mountain views that should be on your bucket list, and we’re so excited to help you discover your perfect West Coast experience!
1) Pack layers for diverse weather
When traveling to California, especially to see the wildlife we’ve learned that the weather can be super tricky! One minute you’re enjoying sunshine, and the next you might need a jacket.
The golden state has multiple climates to plan for, especially if you’re visiting different areas. San Francisco gets foggy and cool while LA stays warm!
We always recommend thinking in layers for your outdoor adventures . Pack those cute t-shirts, but don’t forget a light fleece and windbreaker too!
Even in winter, you’ll want a hoodie for mornings and evenings at the beaches , but nothing super bulky. Remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated! Trust us, you’ll thank yourself when you’re not freezing or melting!
2) Book campsites early to snag the best spots
Let’s get real – California’s gorgeous campgrounds and top attractions fill up FAST! We’ve learned the hard way that waiting until the last minute is a recipe for disappointment.
Most popular spots open reservations 6 months in advance, so mark those calendar dates, mama! Set those alarms for exactly when booking windows open.
We always log in about 10 minutes before the reservation system opens to get ahead of the rush for hotels . It’s like Black Friday but for nature lovers!
Not getting your first choice? Don’t stress! Try refreshing the page repeatedly even after spots appear gone – sometimes people abandon their carts!
3) Skip Hollywood, see real California
Let’s be honest – Hollywood can be a total letdown! Those stars on the Walk of Fame? Usually crowded with tourists and not nearly as glamorous as they seem on TV.
We recommend skipping the Hollywood tourist traps and driving up PCH to San Francisco instead. The views are absolutely stunning!
Check out charming beach towns like Pismo, or the breathtaking Big Sur coastline. These places show you the real beauty of California that we’re totally obsessed with.
For LA vibes without the tourist chaos, we suggest Venice Beach on a weekend – it’s quirky, fun, and gives you authentic California energy!
4) San Diego: Chill by the ocean
San Diego is the perfect spot to get your beach vibes on! We totally recommend hitting up Ocean Beach for its laid-back atmosphere and fun things to do.
Sunset Cliffs is another must-see spot where you can watch the most gorgeous sunsets ever! Trust us, you’ll want your camera ready for this Instagram-worthy view.
When you’re looking for the best beaches, do what the locals do and check out their fave spots. San Diego has so many beaches to choose from, you really can’t go wrong!
Being close to a major airport makes San Diego super convenient for families wanting an easy beach getaway.
5) Go wine tasting in Paso Robles
Omg, wine lovers! We’re obsessed with Paso Robles as one of California’s hottest wine regions! It’s less crowded than Napa but just as fabulous.
Plan about 1.5 hours between wineries in the fall since they’re typically 15-30 minutes apart. Trust us, rushing through tastings is such a mood killer!
Dress in layers, friends! Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool in Paso. Comfort is key when you’re sipping all day!
We totally recommend checking out Halter Ranch – it’s a must-see spot. Or live your best life with a sunset summit vineyard experience!
6) Love hiking? Head to Yosemite
OMG, fellow adventure mamas! If you’re craving some seriously gorgeous trails, Yosemite National Park is our absolute FAVORITE place to lace up those hiking boots!
We recommend spending at least two full days here – one day exploring the stunning Yosemite Valley and another day cruising along the Tioga Road with its jaw-dropping views. Trust us, your Instagram will thank you!
Don’t forget to check out the 27 amazing hiking trails that range from easy peasy to “my-legs-are-burning” challenging. There’s something for every fitness level!
Pack those ponchos, binoculars, and extra shoes because Yosemite gets wild sometimes! And yes, prepare for bears – they’re cute but definitely not cuddle buddies!
7) San Francisco’s overrated, except the bridge
Let’s be real, friends – San Francisco has a bit of a hype problem! We’ve been there and honestly found many of the “must-see” attractions quite underwhelming.
Hollywood makes SF look magical, but places like Fisherman’s Wharf on the coast can feel like overrated tourist traps. And don’t get us started on the lack of public restrooms!
But the Golden Gate Bridge? Totally lives up to the hype! We literally gasped seeing it for the first time. The majestic orange-red spans against the blue bay is worth the entire trip.
Just skip “Hollywood” areas if you’re not into movies – they’re some of the most overrated attractions!
8) Avoid crowded tourist traps
Let’s be real – nobody wants to spend their California vacation stuck in lines with a million other tourists!
We’ve learned that researching common scams in advance can save us from major headaches.
When visiting LA, there are definitely spots worth skipping!
A 20-year LA veteran suggests alternative places to visit that give you a more authentic experience.
Trust us, your Instagram will thank you!
Planning ahead for national parks is a game-changer.
We recommend checking if you need peak hours entry permits to avoid disappointment at the gate.
With a bit of smart planning, we can actually enjoy those famous California sights without the massive crowds!
9) Visit Laguna Beach for stunning views
Laguna Beach is a total gem that we can’t recommend enough, just like palm springs ! The coastal views are absolutely breathtaking and perfect for those Instagram-worthy vacation shots we all secretly want.
We love strolling along Heisler Park with its amazing ocean views and cute walking paths.
Trust us, it’s a must-do when you’re there!
The best times to visit are April to May or September to October when there are way fewer tourists.
You’ll get all the beauty without fighting the summer crowds!
Don’t forget to check out the beachfront hotels if you’re looking to splurge a little.
Waking up to those ocean views? Totally worth it!
10) Drive down the Pacific Coast Highway
Driving down the Pacific Coast Highway is an absolute must when visiting California! We’re obsessed with this gorgeous stretch of road that offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views you’ll ever see.
Most experts recommend driving north to south through the country so you’re on the ocean side of the road.
Trust us, it makes a huge difference for those Instagram-worthy photo ops!
Pack some non-drowsy Dramamine if you get carsick because those curves are no joke, ladies!
The winding road is part of the adventure.
Don’t rush this experience!
We recommend avoiding one-night stands (in hotels, silly!) and allowing plenty of time to stop and soak in those magical views.
11) Savor fresh seafood in Monterey
Omg, we’re totally obsessed with Monterey’s seafood scene! When you’re visiting California, this coastal gem is a must for any foodie adventure.
The Monterey Fish House serves some of the freshest seafood ever – their grilled calamari is life-changing, trust us!
For amazing ocean views with your meal, we love Fish Hopper on Cannery Row. This family-owned spot has been serving up deliciousness since 1950!
Looking for something more casual?
Hit up Grotto Fish Market at Old Fisherman’s Wharf for laid-back vibes and awesome cocktails to pair with your seafood feast!
12) Don’t miss the redwoods in Northern Cali
OMG friends, the redwoods in Northern California are absolutely MAGICAL and perfect for a food lover’s adventure ! We could seriously stand among these giants all day with our jaws dropped.
You’ll need at least 7-10 days to truly explore the coastal redwoods from San Francisco up to the Oregon border.
Trust us, it’s worth every minute!
Take our advice and slow down to truly enjoy these magnificent trees.
There’s something so peaceful about looking up at living things that have been around for hundreds of years!
The Avenue of the Giants is a must-do 30-mile stretch through massive redwood groves.
We recommend visiting in April or October for fewer crowds and better weather!
13) Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland
Omg, we’re obsessed with Lake Tahoe in winter! It truly transforms into a magical snowy paradise, which is the perfect time for your California adventure.
Getting around is super easy with local winter transit systems that connect you to all the fun spots. No need to stress about driving in snow!
Pack those warm layers, friends!
Tubing and sledding are totally amazing activities, but you’ll want to dress warm to have the best time.
We recommend staying at least two nights to fully soak in the experience.
Don’t rush – embrace “Tahoe Time” and let yourself relax into the winter vibes.
14) Prepare to pay more for everything
Let’s be real, friends – California isn’t exactly known for being budget-friendly in any country ! We learned the hard way that you’ll need to stretch those dollars a bit further in the Golden State, considering how much time you’ll spend ther .
Hotel rooms, food, gas, and attractions all come with that famous “California tax” – which isn’t a real tax, just higher prices!
Prepare to pay more for everything than you might be used to back home.
We recommend padding your travel budget by at least 15-20% more than you’d normally plan.
Trust us on this one – nothing ruins vacation vibes faster than constant money stress!
Gas prices will make you do a double-take, and those cute beachside cafes? Adorable but pricey!
Pack snacks and water bottles to save where you can.
15) Death Valley is hot but amazing
We know Death Valley sounds scary, but trust us – it’s totally worth the visit to the national parks ! Just be smart about when you go. The temperatures can get CRAZY high, especially in summer.
Morning visits are your BFF here!
Get to Badwater Basin early because it becomes an actual oven by afternoon. We’re not kidding!
Stay hydrated, ladies! Bring way more water than you think you need. The dry air sucks moisture right out of you!
For the most magical experience, try visiting Badwater Basin at sunrise or sunset – the views are absolutely STUNNING and way less scorching!
16) Try In-N-Out for a burger adventure
No trip to California is complete without a visit to In-N-Out! This iconic burger chain is a must-try for any foodie adventurer.
We recommend trying their famous animal style burgers, which come with extra sauce and grilled onions. Yum!
Planning to take some for the road? We’ve got you covered! Order without the fresh toppings to prevent soggy buns during your travels.
Some folks actually plan their entire California trips around In-N-Out! They totally get it – these burgers are that good!
17) Check out Joshua Tree for epic stargazing
OMG, we’re obsessed with Joshua Tree’s night skies! It’s literally one of the best places in California to see stars in all their sparkly glory.
The east side of the joshua tree park is our fave spot because there’s way less light pollution there. You can see so many stars it’ll blow your mind!
Popular stargazing spots include Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and Jumbo Rocks. No fancy tour needed, mama! Just download a sky map app on your phone.
Remember to bring warm clothes (desert nights get chilly!) and use red lights instead of white ones to preserve everyone’s night vision. Trust us, your Instagram will thank you!
18) LA traffic is no joke, plan ahead
Oh. My. Goodness. LA traffic is exactly as terrible as everyone says it is—maybe even worse! Words cannot express how soul-sucking LA traffic is. We’re not exaggerating!
If you’re visiting with kids, we highly recommend planning your driving schedule carefully. Try to enter the Los Angeles area after 10AM when most commuter traffic has cleared.
Pack snacks, audiobooks, and entertainment for the littles on your trip . Trust us on this one! And maybe limit those drinks because finding public bathrooms can be another adventure entirely.
We always use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to check real-time traffic. Sometimes a slightly longer route actually saves us tons of time!
19) Santa Cruz: Beach town vibes
OMG, we are totally obsessed with Santa Cruz! This laid-back beach town has the most perfect mix of surf culture and sandy beaches that will make your heart happy.
We absolutely love strolling the iconic boardwalk with the kiddos, indulging in delicious food (so much fun for everyone!). The vibes here are unmatched – think quirky shops, amazing tacos, and the cutest local spots.
Don’t miss checking out the redwood-covered mountains that are literally just minutes from the ocean. Like how perfect is that?!
And if you’re driving along Highway 1 toward san luis obispo , definitely pull over at those adorable roadside farms for pies and jams. Your family will thank you!
20) Experience Santa Barbara’s Spanish charm
Santa Barbara is such a magical spot with its gorgeous Spanish-style architecture and relaxed coastal vibe! We absolutely love strolling through the colorful Spanish-style courtyards that give this city its unique character.
Make sure to check out the historic Mission Santa Barbara, one of California’s 21 Spanish missions. It’s stunning with its cream-colored walls and red-tiled roof!
For the full Santa Barbara experience, wander down to Stearns Wharf, the city’s main attraction. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and the sea breeze is so refreshing!
21) Relax in Palm Springs’ desert oasis
Palm Springs is truly the perfect spot to unwind and recharge your batteries! This secluded desert oasis offers the ideal mix of relaxation and fun activities.
We absolutely love lounging by the crystal blue pools here! Just remember to stay under an umbrella, apply sunscreen, and hydrate while soaking up those desert vibes.
For our active friends, Palm Springs is a total mecca for outdoor activities like hiking, tennis, and golf. There’s something for everyone!
The downtown nightlife is super fun too. We recommend spending at least a couple days here to fully experience this amazing desert retreat.
Packing Like a Pro
Mastering the art of packing can make or break your California adventure! We’ve learned through many overstuffed suitcases and forgotten essentials that a little planning goes a long way.
Weather Essentials for California
California’s weather can be tricky – sunshine in LA while San Francisco’s wrapped in fog! Always check the forecast for your specific destinations before packing.
Layer, layer, layer! Even in summer, coastal areas can get chilly when the sun sets. We recommend:
Light jacket or cardigan (essential even in summer!)
Sunglasses and sunscreen (California sun is no joke!)
Hat for sun protection
Comfortable walking shoes
Don’t forget swimwear if you’re hitting the beaches, and a light rain jacket if visiting during winter months (November-April).
Northern California tends to be cooler, while Southern California stays warmer year-round. We always pack a puffy jacket that can double as a pillow on the plane!
Packing Light and Stylish
We’ve become obsessed with picking a color scheme for our California trips! Choosing complementary colors means everything mixes and matches, giving you more outfit options with fewer items.
Try these packing hacks we swear by:
Use packing cubes to organize and compress clothes
Roll clothes instead of folding to save space
Opt for travel-sized toiletries or refillable containers
Pack versatile items that can be dressed up or down
We always make a list before packing and then cut it down by 25%! Trust us, you won’t wear half of what you think you will.
California is pretty casual, but pack one nice outfit if you plan to hit upscale restaurants or clubs. Don’t forget a small crossbody bag for keeping valuables secure while exploring!
Navigating Transportation
Getting around California can be a bit tricky if you don’t plan ahead! We’ve traveled up and down the Golden State countless times and know exactly how to make your journey smooth. Here’s our best advice on transportation options that’ll save you time and stress.
Car Rentals and Alternatives
Let’s be real – California is really best seen by car! Renting wheels gives you the freedom to explore those hidden gems at your own pace. We recommend booking in advance, especially during summer months when prices skyrocket.
Not into driving? No worries! Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are super reliable in most southern california cities. For longer distances, check out Turo (the Airbnb of cars) where you can rent directly from locals at better prices.
Pro tip: If you’re doing the iconic coastal drive, splurge on that convertible! We did it once and OMG, feeling the ocean breeze in your hair while cruising Highway 1 is WORTH IT! 🚗💨
Public Transit Tips
Don’t want to deal with California traffic? We totally get it!
The good news is you can easily get around without touching a steering wheel using trains, buses, and local transit.
For city exploration, San Francisco’s BART system and LA’s Metro are lifesavers.
We love using transit apps like Transit or Citymapper to navigate the systems like pros!
Between cities, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner offers gorgeous coastal views from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.
Budget travelers should check out Flixbus or Megabus for super affordable options.
Money-saving hack: Look for visitor passes!
Many cities offer 1-3 day unlimited transit passes that’ll save you tons compared to buying individual tickets.
We scored a 3-day pass in San Francisco and used it constantly!
