Where We’d Go with Our Kids in Southern California

I moved to California in my late twenties, met my husband (an Orange County native), and fully leaned into that beachy Southern California lifestyle. I joined the travel industry in 2016, and still remember my first site visit at Pelican Hill, just 15 minutes from my house. A site inspection is industry speak for visiting a hotel, meeting the sales team, touring rooms and suites, and getting a feel for everything from dining to the spa, gym, and overall layout.

After having my son, Coleman (now 7), the way I looked at hotels completely shifted. I started paying attention to connecting rooms, suites that could fit a pack and play, or even a large closet that could. A bathtub became essential, along with kid-friendly details like diaper pails and splash pads.

I asked our clients and our team of advisors to help round up our favorite Southern California hotels for families.

A quick note on logistics: while Los Angeles (LAX) is often the default, be sure to check John Wayne (SNA) and Long Beach (LGB). Both are incredibly easy airports. Long Beach even has an outdoor baggage claim and a Javier’s right there. San Diego is another great option if it fits your itinerary.

Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach

Hotel del Coronado: Coronado

There is so much to do here. The pool scene is lively, the wide beach is one of the best in California, and the historic setting gives it that classic, old-school California feel. The food and service are strong across the board, and the newer Shore House accommodations are especially great for families needing more space.

Park Hyatt Aviara: Carlsbad

This is one of the easiest resorts for families. The kids pool area is expansive and designed with children in mind, which means parents can actually relax nearby. The service is excellent, and the location near Carlsbad Village gives you access to great off-property dining if you want it.

Terranea: Palos Verdes

Terranea feels like a true escape from Los Angeles without needing to go far. The kids club is well run for ages 3 to 12, and there are so many built-in activities. Families can kayak, snorkel, surf, or explore along the coast. On land, there are options like hiking and even falconry. The variety of accommodations, from rooms to casitas and villas, makes it easy for larger families.

Regent Santa Monica

One of the newer additions, and it shows. The design is fresh and the spaces feel current and comfortable. They offer surf lessons through their Wave Rider program, beach butler service, and a creative, supervised space for younger kids. It is a strong option if you want something more modern right on the beach.

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Fairmont Grand Del Mar

This is a great choice for families who want a resort feel slightly inland. The pool setup is ideal for kids, and the service is consistently strong. You are close to Carlsbad and Del Mar, so you can easily mix in beach time with great dining. Annie went pre-kids and loved the connecting room options, kids pool and wide open spaces to run. There’s even an equestrian center and kids club!

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Montage Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is hard to beat, and Montage sits in one of the best locations along the coast. The Paintbox Kids Club is thoughtfully run with daily programming that blends creativity, art, and outdoor activities. The villas are a huge plus for families who want space without sacrificing service.

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

This one feels different in the best way. Tucked into a canyon, it has a relaxed, outdoorsy feel that almost feels like summer camp. The shuttle to Aliso Beach makes beach days easy, especially for little kids. There is plenty of space to roam, and the cottage-style rooms make it especially family-friendly.

Pelican Hill

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