Top 20 Kid-Friendly Resorts In California - Updated 2024

Neha
Neha  
Updated
| 4 min read

Hold on tight to your adventure gear, you are in California, the third-largest US state and trendsetter in fashion, politics, innovation, and popular culture. The state of California is also home to Hollywood, every globe trotter’s dream and a major tourist attraction. California alone fetches a large amount of income from tourism, thanks to its cosmopolitan culture. The state is home to historical places, world-famous artists, theme parks, and other attractions that are known globally. To cater to all the tourists, there are also a large number of accommodation choices here. Of all the amazing and fantastic accommodation choices, we have put together a list of the best kid-friendly resorts in California, USA, for your next holiday.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to kid-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 08, 2024.

1. Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel; Carlsbad (from USD 167)

Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel is located next to Carlsbad State Beach, offering families not just fun and sun on the sands but also fine guestrooms to stay in. Sleep in big and comfy king-sized or queen-sized beds and take advantage of great amenities found on-site. Although the resort is just across the street from the beach, there’s a heated swimming pool as well as separate spa areas for kids and adults. There’s also a barbecue station so you can hold a cookout if your kids are craving some burgers and hotdogs.

There are also plenty of big kid-friendly attractions in the area, such as Legoland of California which also features the Sealife aquarium. Another is San Diego Zoo, easily reachable by car or public transport.

Stayed at this property?

Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel

Address: 3200 Carlsbad Blvd
122.86 km (76.4 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
room was clean and generous size
the hotel was nice the room was clean
we love the hotel as it is clean comfy and close to beach
Host:
the staff is great
the staff was very friendly
extremely helpful staff
Read more reviews
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2. Bahia Resort Hotel; San Diego (from USD 179)

Bahia Resort Hotel takes comfort several steps forward by offering beautiful rooms and suites that come with hypoallergenic bedding and climate-controlled air-conditioning. Take advantage of their amenities and facilities and spend fun-filled days with the family without even stepping out of the resort’s premises.

Make a splash in the junior Olympic-sized swimming pool, or enjoy a relaxing time in the huge 30-person whirlpool hot tub. While you’re hitting the gym, your kids can play and even make some new friends on the resort’s playground. You can also sign up the whole family for other activities such as a bay cruise on a classic paddleboat, or a tennis clinic with a trainer.

Stayed at this property?

Bahia Resort Hotel

Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 998 W Mission Bay Dr
164.61 km (102.3 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
liked the free parking outside the room the marina view and the pool
Location:
loved the quiet tranquil environment i was able to social distance
great location beautiful grounds clean room and welcoming staff
Read more reviews
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3. Tenaya at Yosemite (from USD 229)

For a fun holiday, bring your kids to this 4-star eco-friendly resort that stands in the mountain. Your kids will have a handful of adventures such as ice skating and mountain biking while you relax in the spa. Have a delicious buffet breakfast that costs 5-12 USD for children and 9-25 USD for adults.

You may take a few laps in the indoor pool while your kids play archery in the game room. For a peaceful time, you all can watch the sunset while laying on the sun loungers. Enjoy a peaceful and calm evening in the picnic area with your family.

Stayed at this property?

Tenaya at Yosemite

Address: 1122 Highway 41
420.6 km (261.4 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
everything was clean and cozy
Host:
the staff was all friendly and very attentive
very friendly staff restaurant was amazing
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

4. Town and Country San Diego (from USD 209)

Sit under the canopy of stars around the firepit and chit-chat with your family when you stay at Town and Country Resort. Start your day in the outdoor pool, and teach your kids to swim in the children’s pool.

If you feel lazy to go out, sit back on the couch and watch your favourite movies on the television. You can also browse social media using free WiFi. For those who are travelling with their tiny companions, cribs can be requested.

Stayed at this property?

Town and Country San Diego

Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 500 Hotel Circle North
165.46 km (102.9 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the place is amazing pools are great
rooms are very nice and spacious at night it looks very nice and peaceful
Cleanliness:
clean and comfortable room
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

California Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more

Tours by Stephanie

5. Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel (from USD 122)

Rest and relax with your family at Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel by starting your day at the gym and relishing a good breakfast with your children at Echo Lounge. Later, you may swim in the indoor pool with your kids. If you’re up for some adventures, you and your children can try cross-country skiing and downhill skiing.

If you need a crib for your baby, you can have it for 15 USD per night and put them to sleep in your comfy, air-conditioned room.

Stayed at this property?

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 4130 Lake Tahoe Blvd
578.17 km (359.3 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km)

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
pool was clean and also enjoyed the jacuzzi
Host:
staff friendly and helpful
staff is very friendly though
Location:
i mean it definitely was a place for last minute booking if you need something
Read more reviews
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

6. Sanctuary Beach Resort (from USD 509)

Located in the beautiful city of Marina in Monterey County, Sanctuary Beach Resort is one of the best family resorts in California. This kid-friendly beachfront resort offers outdoor play equipment for the little ones to enjoy. You can also arrange family-friendly activities like canoeing, biking, and snorkeling at the tour desk. Other on-site amenities that all ages can enjoy are the outdoor swimming pool, picnic area, and private beach. The resort is pet-friendly and features comfy family rooms.

Stayed at this property?

Sanctuary Beach Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 3295 Dunes Drive
498.88 km (310.0 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km)

7. Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort (from USD 279)

Nestled right on California’s golden coastline is Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. The resort features spacious rooms with balconies or patios, giving you a front-row seat to breathtaking views. Guests can enjoy amenities like the outdoor swimming pool, wellness center, and gym. The on-site Rodney’s Grill offers sumptuous dinners and delicious cocktails. Kids’ meals can also be requested at an extra cost.

If you want to take the kids out for fun activities, Santa Barbara Zoo is just a two-minute drive from the resort!

Stayed at this property?

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 633 East Cabrillo Boulevard
229.13 km (142.4 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

8. Loews Coronado Bay Resort (from USD 299)

Featuring a kids’ club, outdoor play equipment, and kid meals on request, Loews Coronado Bay Resort must definitely be included in any list of top resorts for families in California. Nestled along San Diego Bay, this four-star property is a quick walk to the beach and offers a heated pool, a wellness center, and on-site water sports facilities. The rooms here are furnished to ensure comfort. For families with infants or toddlers, baby safety gates and babysitting services are also offered. With two on-site restaurants, guests are spoilt for sumptuous meals at the resort.

If you want to venture outside, some of the attractions close by are Living Coast Discovery Center and Chula Vista Bay Front Park.

Stayed at this property?

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 4000 Coronado Bay Road
180.21 km (112.0 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna

9. Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa (from USD 298)

Located along Pacific Coast Highway, one of the country’s most scenic highways, is the five-start beachfront resort Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa. The rooms come with a satellite TV, air conditioning, and a patio or a balcony.

With a water park, kids’ club, playground, and games room, the kids sure are spoilt for entertainment choices at the resort. Babysitting and child care services are also available at an extra cost. Other conveniences like a spa lounge, a vending machine, a minimarket, and free Wi-Fi are also available on the premises.

Stayed at this property?

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 21500 Pacfic Coast Highway
99.58 km (61.9 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

10. The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa (from USD 409)

If you’re visiting Rancho Mirage, one of the best resorts for families in the area is The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa. The pet-friendly resort offers a kids’ club, games room, and babysitting services. For utmost convenience, the guest rooms come with en suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and plush beds. There are five on-site restaurants offering all-day dining with Italian and American a la carte options.

For family adventures outside the hotel, check out the Children’s Discovery Museum and Century Park.

Stayed at this property?

The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 71333 Dinah Shore Drive
86.83 km (54.0 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

11. The Waterfront Beach Resort (from USD 344)

Located in Huntington Beach along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway, The Waterfront Beach Resort is another Hilton hotel that caters to all travelers, especially families. A kids’ club, family rooms, and babysitting services are offered here. The resort offers a fitness center, a spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a hot tub. The rooms are fitted with modern amenities like a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, and a fridge.

Attractions like Pacific City and Huntington Beach State Park are nearby, making this resort a superb destination for kid-friendly vacations in California.

Stayed at this property?

The Waterfront Beach Resort, A Hilton Hotel

Wheelchair accessible

Address: 21100 Pacific Coast Highway
99.69 km (62.0 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna

12. Palm Canyon Resorts by Diamond Resorts (from USD 109)

Book the three-star property, Palm Canyon Resorts by Diamond Resorts, if you are looking for kid-friendly accommodations. This chic hotel offers a wide range of facilities for you to have an amazing time with your kids. It includes a swimming pool with a separate kids’ section along with slides, a kiddie zone, a play area, a kids’ club and also the service of babysitters. The nonsmoking property is adorned with contemporary decor and offers other facilities like free parking, Wi-Fi, a spa, a sauna, a fitness center, a picnic area, a bar, and an onsite restaurant.

Stayed at this property?

Palm Canyon Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 2800 South Palm Canyon Drive
79.1 km (49.2 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Room service Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace

13. Desert Isle Resort (from USD 199)

Located just 10 minutes’ walk from the Oasis Water Park is the Desert Isle Resort. This kid-friendly resort offers a swimming pool with parasols and sunbeds and a separate section for kids. This California resort for families also has a kids’ club and babysitters for your kids and offers one and two-bedroom private villas for you to have a relaxing and memorable holiday.

There’s a restaurant on site that offers a kids’ menu and other facilities like parking, free Wi-Fi, a sun terrace, a sauna, a fitness center, and tennis courts are also available.

Stayed at this property?

Desert Isle Resort, a VRI resort

Wifi Available

Address: 2555 East Palm Canyon
79.56 km (49.5 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Tennis court Sauna Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms

14. Monarch Beach Resort (from USD 398)

monarch beach resort
Source: www.booking.com

The family-friendly Monarch Beach Resort offers king and queen suites with ocean or resort views as well as ocean-view suites, executive and presidential suites with modern comfort and amenities. As a five-star resort, the property will pamper you with some of the best hospitality you have experienced. The hotel also has a range of facilities for kids like TV channels for children, an indoor play area, kids’ meals, etc. They will have a memorable time as well. All the suites feature a large and furnished balcony or terrace with views of the resort or the ocean. The entire property is surrounded by natural beauty and lies steps away from the beach.

Stayed at this property?

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach

Address: One Monarch Beach Resort
98.34 km (61.1 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Special diet menus (on request) Ticket service Live music/performance Concierge service Walking tours Snack bar Access to health care professionals Pool/beach towels

15. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa (from USD 349)

Set amidst acres of mowed lawns in Park Lantern, California, is this rich and luxurious property by the Marriott chain of hotels. The four-star Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa hotel could be your next accommodation in California. This kid-friendly hotel has gorgeous interiors and offers private beach access for a great family time. You can choose from among king or double rooms with ocean or resort views. The Italian on-site restaurant serves some of the best food in the area. The hotel has a range of facilities for your relaxation too.

Stayed at this property?

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 25135 Park Lantern
99.06 km (61.6 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km)

16. Snowcreek Resort (from USD 294)

For a kid-friendly vacation in California, be sure to stay at Snowcreek Resort. This four-star grand hotel is located on the Old Mammoth Road in California. Situated in the mountain ski area, this resort is perfect for an adventurous family holiday. The aparthotel offers one, two and three-bedroom premium and deluxe apartments with extra-large double beds and also bunk beds in some rooms.

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property along with parking, a swimming pool, and more. Kids can take part in various activities like horse riding, squash, tennis, cycling, etc. The Asian restaurant onsite serves delicious lunch and dinner and you can enjoy breakfast right in the comfort of your room.

Stayed at this property?

Snowcreek Resort Vacation Rentals

Wifi Available

Address: 1254 Old Mammoth Road
408.85 km (254.1 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Bar Tennis court Sauna Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace

17. The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth (from USD 279)

The upscale four-star property by the famous Westin chain, The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth is the grandest property on Old Mammoth Road, California. Known worldwide for comfort and luxury, the hotel is one of the best places to stay in California on your next family holiday. There is a range of kids’ facilities that you can consider before booking if you are visiting with kids. The hotel has one and two-bedroom suites with king and queen rooms with double beds, sofa beds and much more to choose from. Additionally, free Wi-Fi, parking, a swimming pool, a spa, a sauna, a gym and a range of other amenities are also available.

Stayed at this property?

The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 50 Hillside Drive
411.03 km (255.5 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

18. Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa, Autograph Collection (from USD 161)

The Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa lies in the Lake Arrowhead area of California and offers beautifully decorated rooms with modern interiors. Guests can choose between king and queen rooms with a lake view. The rooms also come with a furnished balcony or terrace where you can enjoy breakfast. Some seafood restaurants and bars are located near the property, and the hotel itself offers a range of facilities for your comfort like free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool with kids’ section, babysitting services, parking, a bar and restaurant and so much more.

Stayed at this property?

19. Dolphin Bay Resort and Spa (from USD 429)

Tucked away near the famous Pismo Beach in California, is the Dolphin Bay Resort and Spa offering one and two-bedroom suites with pool or ocean views. If you are looking for an extravagant stay, you can book the Presidential Suite that offers 360-degree views of the resort and ocean. The four-star property next to the beach is perfect for your family holiday as it offers a range of kid-friendly facilities like board games, puzzles, play equipment, books, etc. You can enjoy refreshments and food at the onsite American restaurant. Also enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking, a sauna, a spa, a hot tub and other relaxing amenities.

Stayed at this property?

Dolphin Bay Resort And Spa

Address: 2727 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, CA, USA, 93449
335.69 km (208.6 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Non-smoking rooms Trouser press Lift Live music/performance Concierge service Facilities for disabled guests Shared lounge/TV area Non-smoking throughout

Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.

20. Bear Creek Resort (from USD 79)

Located near a gorgeous lake is the pocket-friendly hotel, Bear Creek Resort. It’s one of the best family resorts in California. The property lies at 60 km (37 miles) from Palm Springs International Airport and offers one, two and three-bedroom houses.

The rooms have double beds, and also feature a kitchenette where you can prepare your favorite meals to enjoy a nice family time. The resort also has various other facilities for kids like a kids’ pool, non-smoking rooms, and a kids’ playground. Free Wi-Fi and parking are also available for your convenience.

Stayed at this property?

Bear Creek Resort

Wifi Available

Address: 40210 Big Bear Boulevard
24.28 km (15.1 mi) from Lake Arrowhead Village

Parking Meeting/banquet facilities Garden Non-smoking rooms Business centre Facilities for disabled guests Free parking Internet services

California has it all

Talk about diverse accommodations or easy availability, the cities of this state never disappoint. So when are you treating your little ones to one of these best kid-friendly resorts in California? Whatever is your budget, there is something for everyone here.

Frequently asked questions about kid-friendly resorts in California


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Neha is a traveler and professional writer driven by passion. She also makes sure to live life on her own terms.

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