We all know San Diego and Carlsbad are great for kids, but if you’re overlooking Oceanside, you’re missing the opportunity for a prime vacation that includes beachfront, a funky town, and easy access to the best of San Diego county. They say Oceanfront is ‘rising’ for a reason. Here’s what not to miss with kids or without: Around town: Surf lessons: Oceanside has a long surfing history … [Read more...]
Where to eat in Oceanside California
June 3, 2019 By
Forget fast food chains or cookie cutter restaurants. Oceanside is brimming with inventive cuisine from earnest, hardworking chefs and restaurant owners, all with a story to tell. You won't go hungry, whether you're in town with your family for some beach time or on a grown-up getaway or solo adventure. Here's where to eat in Oceanside: Breakfast: Elena’s Cafe French Crepes: this hole in … [Read more...]
Santa Barbara CA with kids
May 30, 2019 By
Santa Barbara is a land of mission-style terra cotta architecture, sunshine, ocean views, and AVAs. And while it’s gotten plenty of attention as a grown-up getaway, it’s a prime destination for families with kids too. Here’s what not to miss (and what to sneak in should you and your partner get some adult-time): Santa Barbara history: Start with the Santa Barbara trolley tour … [Read more...]
Mendocino Coast: Little River Inn review
January 31, 2019 By
The Mendocino coastal area offers stunning natural beauty, warm hospitality, quaint, unpretentious towns, and outdoor exploration galore! It's a great region in which to base your California northern coastal road trip, and a stay at Little River Inn is a must! Tip: We tacked a trip to the Mendocino coast onto our Grown-Up Getaway to Sonoma, and the two destinations paired beautifully, but … [Read more...]
Grown-Up Getaway: Sonoma County without the kids
January 28, 2019 By
Sonoma County is certainly a kid-friendly destination, but to best enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, fine dining, and wine tasting opportunities of this region of Northern California, we suggest planning a getaway to Sonoma County without the kids. Here's how we went about it, including our favorite wineries, dining opportunities and hotel options. Grown-up Getaway: Sonoma County without the … [Read more...]
Grown-Up Getaway: What to do in Orange County without the kids
November 10, 2017 By
What? Go to Orange County, home of Disneyland, without the kids? Yep! And here’s why you need to go with the fellow grown-up of your choice (and what you need to do): Orange County without the kids: Orange County has recently surprised me with mixed use buildings, a more urban flare, and a departure from the beach-and-theme-park vibe I’ve long been used to. Here’s what not to miss in four … [Read more...]
How to spend a day in San Juan Capistrano California
November 1, 2017 By
Located on the southern end of Orange County, San Juan Capistrano lies adjacent to the beach towns of Dana Point and Laguna Beach, but offers families something different than sand and sun. One of the oldest communities on the west coast, visiting San Juan Capistrano adds a layer of history to your Southern California vacation. Here’s what to explore in one day. Mission San Juan … [Read more...]
A stay at Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel with kids
August 9, 2017 By
Parents might assume a Ritz Carlton hotel is too, well, ritzy for a family vacation. In fact, the family-friendly offerings at Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel make the acclaimed resort a smart choice for families looking for great vacation value. Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel with kids: The Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel is located right on the Pacific Coast between the beach towns of Laguna Beach and … [Read more...]
The Montage Laguna Beach: beach luxury for families
August 2, 2017 By
Laguna Beach is one of Pit Stops for Kids' Best Beach Town picks, and one of our family's favorite places to visit in California. Any family vacation to this sunny ocean-front artist colony will be well-spent, but if you want to take your Laguna Beach family trip over the top, stay at the Montage Laguna Beach. A Preferred Hotel with the Preferred Family seal of approval, the Montage Laguna … [Read more...]
Whale watching in Southern CA with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
January 14, 2014 By
Luck was with us the late December day we boarded the whale watching boat out of Dana Wharf. Winter is prime time for whale watching in Southern CA, and the ocean was as calm as glass and the sun was shining warmly. I grinned at the many passengers wearing green and sporting Michigan State gear in prep for the Rose Bowl to be held several days later. I was sure they were basking in the warmth of … [Read more...]
