Day Trips
Top Ways to Enjoy a San Juan Capistrano Day Trip
February 1, 2023
On a sunny day, and there are many, this small town has an idyllic feel and is perfect for wandering. As we took in the beauty and the history of San Juan Capistrano, we all agreed that we’d love to come back to linger a while longer. … Read More
Top 15 Best Beaches in San Diego for Families
July 29, 2022
San Diego has some of the best beaches for families in the entire state. No trip to this beautiful coastal city is complete without a beach visit. Whether you want to build sand castles, snooze under an umbrella, gaze at rocky bluffs, learn to surf, or investigate tide pools, there’s a beach for every type of family here. … Read More
Family Day Out at Big Sur’s Purple Sand Beach
July 1, 2022
Pfeiffer Beach is mainly known for two extraordinary natural wonders: pockets of purple sand and gorgeous rock formations including the frequently-photographed Keyhole Arch. You may have seen photos of Keyhole Arch at sunset when the sun’s golden rays align with the arch at just the right time creating a magical sight. The combination of its natural beauty and the adventure of getting there makes Pfeiffer Beach a Big Sur gem that you’ll want to experience for yourself. … Read More
Pinnacles National Park: A Day Trip Guide
May 19, 2021
Pinnacles National Park is one of California’s best-kept secrets. With a great mix of breathtaking views, easy hikes, and fascinating wildlife, it makes for a perfect family-friendly day trip. If you live in the Bay Area or are visiting from out of town, make sure to add Pinnacles to your itinerary! … Read More
Rock City at Mount Diablo State Park: Adventure Through Time
March 8, 2021 (updated January 2022)
Looking for a unique Bay Area adventure? Or maybe just a new place where the kids can burn off some energy? Make sure to add Rock City, in Mt. Diablo State Park to your list! … Read More
Uvas Canyon Waterfall Loop: Family Waterfall Fun
March 8, 2021 (updated January 2022)
Though I grew up in San Jose, it took a random Facebook post to call my attention to Uvas Canyon. The post had a photo of a dad and toddler splashing near a waterfall…in Morgan Hill?? I was intrigued, to say the least! In no time we had reservations of our own for this gorgeous and easy family-friendly waterfall hike. Uvas is now one of my favorite family day hikes, especially on a hot South Bay day. … Read More
Villa Montalvo: Easy Day Hikes, Hidden Art, and Beautiful Nature
March 1, 2021 (updated January 2022)
If you are interested in sharing the arts and the outdoors with your family, make sure a hike at Villa Montalvo makes it onto your list of things to do in the South Bay. Villa Montalvo has a unique vibe, perhaps resulting from the seamless combination of art and natural beauty throughout the park. This place checks many boxes: family-friendly hikes, cultural excursions, and local adventures. … Read More
The Best Bay Area Gardens and Farms for Hands-On Family Fun
November 22, 2020
Bay Area gardens and farms are open year-round and offer a fun alternative to parks and trails. They are also multigenerational crowd-pleasers and tend to be our go-to for an outing with grandma. … Read More
Point Lobos: Hikes You Don’t Want to Miss
September 22, 2020
There’s nothing better than starting the day with a Point Lobos hike. Just south of Carmel on Highway 1, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers spectacular trails, scuba diving, cultural and geological sites, and an opportunity to view harbor seals, sea lions, seabirds, gray whales, sea otters, and more. … Read More