Gather the Fam and Head to These Beautiful Destinations
With the kiddos at home, it may seem like this summer is never going to end. If everyone (including you) is getting a little stir crazy at home, itās not too late to plan a last-minute summer vacay for the entire family. These five destinations are a short drive or plane ride from Southern California, which means not too much planning is needed. A few days away will be the best way to get out of the house, soak up the sun and make it a summer to remember.Ā Family Vacations California
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Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
For a desert staycation, look no further than Omni Rancho Las Palmas in Rancho Mirage. No more than three hours from most SoCal cities, Omni Rancho Las Palmas is located outside of Palm Springs, a sweet respite from the main hubbub of our city life. Surrounded by mountains and lush fairways, youāre guaranteed an amazing view. The resort has over 450 rooms and luxury suites with large French doors that give way to private patios; the interior is modern with a Spanish Colonial-inspired design.
There are plenty of eateries on-site, varying from quick bites by the pool to sophisticated dining at bluEmberāthe hotelās signature restaurant serving modern American dishes. Take advantage of the Stay & Splash offer: up to 20% off weekdays through the end of summer. The resort is incredibly family-friendly, and your kids are bound to make new friends at Splashtopia, which includes a lazy river and a fourth pool (coming soon). No worries parentsāthey have an adults-only pool if you need some time to yourself!Ā
Location: Rancho MirageĀ
8/25
Family Vacations California
AutoCamp Yosemite
Letās be honestāno one really likes roughing it in tents and sleeping on the hard ground. At AutoCamp, you can experience glamping at its finest while still being surrounded by natural beauty. Cramming a family of four into an Airstream might sound tricky, but these campers sleep two adults and two kids comfortably.
Bringing a bigger crew? Book a Basecamp Suiteāit includes an Airstream and a canvas tent, fitting up to six guests. AutoCamp is about a six-hour drive from SoCal, with plenty of scenic rest stops along the California coast. The drive itself makes for great bonding time, and the campās location near the park entrance is super convenient. Youāll be ready to hit the Yosemite trails early and make the most of every adventure-filled day. Ā The Mirror Lake Trail is a great one for kids. Itās an easy, 90-minute loop with great payoff: gorgeous views of the lake and the Half Dome.
Location: Yosemite
9/26
Conrad Punta de Mita
If youāre looking to get out of Dodge and swap those hours in the car for a plane ride, Punta de Mita, Mexico is only a three-hour tripĀ from LA via air. Conrad Punta de Mita is part of a gated community and nestled in between the jungle and the ocean. Situated in the center of the Riviera Nayarit, a 200-mile long stretch of pure coastline, the resort is a true tropical paradise. While it may seem like this is a romantic couplesā retreatāwhich it isāitās also extremely family friendly. This summer, theyāre offering 30% off all rooms and complimentary kidsā meals. You can take the family ziplining, horseback riding or sailing by day and parents can wind down in style by visiting Agave Studio after hours to make their own mezcal.
Location: Punta de Mita
Family Vacations California
Lakehouse Hotel + Resort
Just 15 minutes east of Carlsbad and 40 minutes north of San Diego is Lakehouse Hotel + Resort in San Marcos, a tranquil lakeside oasis. The kids will get a complimentary sāmores kit upon check-in and will have a ball roasting marshmallows in the fire pits right outside your room. The Adventure Suite is perfect for the little onesāitās complete with a king bed, childrenās bunk bed and tent. Everyoneās going to be flocking to the beach, so you and the family will find a tranquil respite from the crowds here by the lake. They also offer free bikes, boats and golf for resort guests. Your kids will never want to leave!
Location: Lake San Marcos
9/15
Catalina Island
This picturesque island is only an hour-long ferry ride away, so grab your clan and hop aboard the Catalina Express. Catalina Island is filled with recreational activities on both land and water. If your kids want to catch a glimpse of bison, take a ride around the island on a Jeep tour. If youāre looking to get wet, you and the little ones can take a semi-submersible tour in 5-foot deep water. Youāre bound to see tropical fish, aquatic plants and sea lions. And make sure to grab a scoop at Sailorās Delight for the ferry ride back home!
Location: Avalon
