LA to San Francisco With Kids
LA to San Francisco is one of our favorite California road trips with kids — scenic coastal stops, walkable beach towns, playground breaks, aquariums, bakeries, and plenty of places that actually work for family travel.
This guide follows the drive north with kid-friendly stops in Santa Barbara, Solvang, Pismo Beach, Monterey, Carmel, and San Francisco.
Santa Barbara
One of the easiest first stops on the drive from LA to San Francisco — great weather, walkable areas, ocean views, and plenty to do with kids without feeling overwhelming.
Santa Barbara Zoo
Compact zoo with ocean views, easy walking paths, giraffes, train rides, and a great layout for younger kids.
Chase Palm Park Playground
Large beachfront playground with climbing structures, open grass areas, and easy beach access. Great quick stop to let kids run around.
MOXI — The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, rooftop play area, and activities great for toddlers through elementary age.
Stearns Wharf
Easy walk with ocean views, snack stops, small shops, and family-friendly restaurants right on the water.
Santa Barbara Harbor
Walk along the marina, watch boats, grab food nearby, and visit the small beach areas around the harbor.
Quick Notes
- Leave LA early before 8 AM to avoid 101 traffic.
- Great stop for toddlers and younger kids.
- 2–3 days is usually enough for a relaxed stay.
Solvang
A fun and easy stop between Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach — known for Danish-style streets, bakeries, windmills, and a slower pace that works well with kids.
Walk Downtown Solvang
Windmills, bakeries, candy shops, little plazas, and easy stroller-friendly streets to explore.
Hans Christian Andersen Park
Small playground with open space, shaded picnic areas, and room for kids to run around after the drive.
Old Mission Santa Inés
Quiet historic mission with gardens and open areas to walk through. Easy short stop while exploring downtown.
Solvang Trolley & Carriage Tours
Short horse carriage rides and trolley tours through town — especially fun for younger kids.
OstrichLand USA
A quirky stop just outside Solvang where kids can feed ostriches and emus.
Quick Notes
- Great as a quick stop — 1–2 hours is enough.
- Lots of bakeries and snack stops throughout town.
- Better for younger kids and slower-paced travel days.
- 1 night is usually enough if staying overnight.
Pismo Beach
One of the easiest coastal stops on the drive north — relaxed beach vibes, walkable areas, playgrounds, dunes, and plenty of simple activities for kids without needing a packed itinerary.
Pismo Pier
Walk the pier, watch surfers, grab snacks nearby, and explore the beach area around downtown.
Dinosaur Caves Park
Large oceanfront playground with walking paths, grassy areas, and amazing coastal views. One of the best kid stops in the area.
Oceano Dunes
Watch ATVs and dune buggies or book a ride through the dunes. Very unique stop for kids.
Monarch Butterfly Grove
Seasonal stop. Best from late October through February when thousands of monarch butterflies gather in the eucalyptus trees.
Quick Notes
- Stay near the pier or beach so most things are walkable.
- If staying overnight, 2 nights is ideal.
- Optional nearby stops: Morro Bay or Hearst Castle.
Monterey + Carmel
One of the best stretches of the California coast for families — aquariums, beaches, coastal walks, wildlife, and easy scenic stops all within a short drive.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the best aquariums in California with massive ocean exhibits, touch pools, penguins, jellyfish, and kid-friendly interactive areas.
Cannery Row + Coastal Trail
Walkable waterfront area with shops, ocean views, bike rentals, and plenty of easy food stops nearby.
Carmel Beach
Wide white-sand beach perfect for running around, picnics, and relaxed beach time with kids.
Dennis the Menace Playground
Large playground in Monterey with climbing structures, swings, bridges, and space for younger kids to play after long drives.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Beautiful coastal trails with easy wildlife spotting, ocean views, and shorter family-friendly walking paths.
Quick Notes
- Aquarium gets crowded — mornings are best.
- Carmel downtown is very walkable with kids.
- Great stop for wildlife, beaches, and slower scenic days.
- 1–2 nights is usually enough for most families.
San Francisco
The final stop on the road trip — packed with iconic views, fun kid-friendly attractions, waterfront walks, and plenty to explore without needing a packed schedule.
Golden Gate Bridge
Classic SF stop with amazing views, easy family photos, and nearby walking areas around the bridge viewpoints.
Fisherman’s Wharf + Pier 39
Sea lions, street performers, waterfront walks, shops, snacks, and lots to explore with kids all in one area.
Cable Car Ride
One of the most iconic SF experiences and surprisingly fun for kids.
Exploratorium
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits that work really well for toddlers through older kids.
California Academy of Sciences
Huge museum with an aquarium, rainforest dome, planetarium, and natural history exhibits all in one place.
Quick Notes
- Parking can be difficult in busy areas.
- Dress in layers — weather changes quickly.
- Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the easiest places to explore with kids.
- 2–3 nights is ideal for most families.