West Coast with Kids: Creating Family Memories that Last a Lifetime
The West Coast is a great place for families to have fun together and make happy memories. There are a lot of cool things to do there, from the rocky beaches in the Northwest to the warm, sunny beaches in California. Here’s how you can explore amazing nature, try exciting activities, and spend quality time with your family on the West Coast.
Start in Seattle
You can start your trip to the West Coast in the exciting city of Seattle. Visit the tall Space Needle where you can see the whole city and the Puget Sound from up high. At the Pacific Science Center, you can do fun, hands-on science activities, while the Seattle Aquarium lets you see amazing underwater animals up close.
Walk along the Hall of Mosses trail to see a forest that looks like it’s from a storybook, or visit Ruby Beach to watch the powerful waves crash against the rocks.
San Diego Adventures
At the southern end of your West Coast journey lies San Diego, where you can visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo or take a day trip to neighboring La Jolla to see the breathtaking sea caves and basking sea lions.
For the ultimate family bonding experience, sail along the west coast on a whale-watching cruise, giving you a chance to spot majestic whales in their natural habitat. After an exciting day exploring, treat the family to mouthwatering Mexican food at one of San Diego’s authentic eateries and refuel for your next stop.
The Oregon Coast
Take a trip down to the beautiful Oregon coast, an area well-known for its impressive rock formations and pretty lighthouses. The town of Cannon Beach has long stretches of soft sandy beaches and is a great place to go looking for shells and rocks. You can also spend time flying kites here as the wind is conducive to that. And don’t miss the chance to take pictures of the famous Haystack Rock rising out of the ocean.
After visiting Cannon Beach, check out Ecola State Park too. This park has hiking trails along the tops of cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the views from up high are amazing. While hiking, keep an eye out for gray whales that migrate along the Oregon coast — they’re simply majestic.
San Francisco Treats
No West Coast family adventure is complete without a stop in San Francisco. This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and attractions guaranteed to delight all ages. While there, make sure to ride the iconic cable cars, marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge, and uncover the secrets of Alcatraz Island.
Don’t miss the hands-on exhibits at the Exploratorium, where science comes alive through interactive displays. And for an unforgettable family photo op, visit the colorful Painted Ladies, a row of Victorian homes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
Monterey and Big Sur
Taking a drive down the scenic Highway 1 is one of the best things to do on the West Coast, alongside walking along Cannery Row in Monterey, a famous historic area written about by John Steinbeck. You’ll also get to see sea lions, seals, and otters up close at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Keep driving south and you’ll reach Big Sur. This coastline has tall, rugged cliffs overlooking the crashing waves below. It’s a breathtaking sight. In Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, you can go for a hike among the huge redwood trees or you can pull over at one of the many stops along the curvy road and just take in the endless views of the ocean.
Los Angeles Fun
There is so much fun for families in the city of Los Angeles. Take Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure Park, for example. Here, you can go on thrilling rides and get caught up in the magic. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood where movies come to life with exciting rides and live shows, and learn about dinosaurs and life long ago at the interesting La Brea Tar Pits and Museum.
Be sure to spend time at the Santa Monica Pier too. You can play classic carnival games on the famous pier and ride the big Ferris wheel to get great views of the ocean. Or just relax on the beach, build sandcastles, and play in the waves. Remember to pack well for your vacation and don’t forget your sunscreen and beach towels.
The West Coast is the Best Coast
From its vibrant cities to majestic national parks filled with awe-inspiring wildlife, the West Coast offers memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your family adventure today and get ready to create a lifetime of cherished moments together.
