Winter in California is one of the best-kept secrets for families.
Because while most people assume California is just beaches and sunshine, the truth is… California in winter has everything. Snowy mountain towns, cozy cabins, desert adventures, coastal escapes, and even national parks that feel calmer and more magical without the summer crowds.
And if you’re a parent, you already know: planning a family trip isn’t just about finding somewhere beautiful — it’s about finding a destination that’s actually doable with kids. Somewhere with space to run, things to explore, and enough variety that everyone (toddlers, teens, and exhausted parents) has a good time.
That’s exactly why California is such a perfect winter travel state. You can plan a snow trip, a warm-weather getaway, or a mix of both — without even leaving the state.
In this guide, I’m sharing 15 incredible places to visit in California in winter, including family-friendly snow destinations, sunny escapes, and hidden gems that deliver the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a winter break trip, or a full family road trip, these spots will help you create memories your kids will talk about for years.
1. Why Families Love Traveling to Mammoth Lakes, California
Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, hot springs
When you think of California, beaches and sunshine usually come to mind — but Mammoth Lakes, California offers a completely different (and unforgettable) family adventure. Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, Mammoth Lakes is one of the best places in California for families who want fresh air, real seasons, and activities that keep kids moving and engaged. Whether you’re visiting during winter break or planning a summer escape, Mammoth Lakes combines outdoor fun, breathtaking scenery, and family-friendly experiences in one easy destination.
Top places and experiences for families in Mammoth Lakes:
Inyo National Forest – camping, hiking, and nature exploration
source:expedia.com
Natural Hot Springs – scenic soaking spots for parents (nearby family-friendly areas)
Rainbow Falls – an iconic waterfall hike kids will love
Devils Postpile National Monument – a fascinating natural landmark
Bodie Ghost Town – a real-life abandoned town and history lesson
Mammoth Lakes Basin – kayaking, picnics, and easy lake walks
Mammoth Gondola – panoramic views with minimal effort
Eastern Sierra Road Trip Stops – perfect for extending your California family trip
Where to Stay in Mammoth Lake with Kids?
When traveling with little kids, choosing the right place to stay can make or break the trip. Easy access to ski school, quick returns to the room, and simple logistics matter far more than luxury or nightlife. Every family has different priorities, but for families with young children, these are the most popular and practical places to stay in Mammoth.
If your kids are 2–4 years old and will likely spend more time warming up than skiing, here’s a simple way to decide:
Choose Mammoth Mountain Inn if your top priority is the easiest access to ski school and fast breaks back to your room.
Choose Juniper Springs if you want more space, a full kitchen, a pool, and still easy lift access.
Save Village Lodge for a future trip, when your kids can ski longer stretches without frequent breaks.
If you’re looking for a California destination that feels adventurous but still family-friendly, Mammoth Lakes checks every box.
2. Why Families Love Visiting Death Valley National Park
Best for: Mild winter temperatures, desert scenery
Death Valley National Park might sound intimidating, but don’t let the name fool you — it’s actually one of the best winter destinations in California for families who love the outdoors. Winter brings mild temperatures, wide-open landscapes, and endless opportunities for kids to explore, learn, and burn energy without crowds or chaos. From surreal desert scenery and easy hikes to night skies your kids will never forget, Death Valley offers a rare mix of adventure, education, and simplicity that works surprisingly well for family travel.
Why families love Death Valley National Park:
Perfect winter weather – warm, sunny days ideal for hiking and exploring
Mind-blowing geology – sand dunes, colorful badlands, salt flats, and canyons that feel like another planet
Incredible stargazing – some of the darkest skies in the U.S. for Milky Way view
Family-friendly hikes – short, scenic trails with big visual payoff
Wide open space – room for kids to roam, explore, and ask all the questions
Built-in history lessons – ghost towns, mining relics, and Old West stories
Easy winter road trip stop – great add-on to Las Vegas or Southern California trips
source:expedia.com
If you’re looking for a California national park that feels adventurous but still manageable with kids, Death Valley in winter checks all the boxes — and then some.
3. Lake Tahoe
Best for: Snow sports, alpine scenery
Why Families Love Traveling to North Lake Tahoe
Planning a family trip isn’t just about picking a destination anymore — it’s about finding a place that works for kids, parents, and grandparents. North Lake Tahoe checks all those boxes. With easy outdoor adventures, family-friendly resorts, and plenty of space for everyone to relax and reconnect, it’s one of the best year-round destinations in California for multi-generational travel. Whether you’re visiting in winter for skiing or in warmer months for hiking and beach days, North Lake Tahoe makes family travel feel fun instead of exhausting.
Why families love North Lake Tahoe:
Easy hikes for all ages – short, scenic trails like Stateline Lookout and Eagle Rock
Family-friendly resorts – hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe truly cater to kids and parents
Beaches with playgrounds – Kings Beach lets kids play while parents relax
So much outdoor time – beaches, trails, water activities, and fresh mountain air
Guided family adventures – companies like Tahoe Adventure Company plan age-appropriate outings
Perfect for ski trips – world-class skiing in winter with cozy après-ski vibes
Great for multi-generational trips – something for toddlers, teens, parents, and grandparents
4. Solvang
Best for: Holiday charm, wine tasting
Why Families Love Visiting Solvang
Solvang may be best known for its Danish charm and wine country vibes, but it’s also one of the most family-friendly small towns in California. This walkable village is packed with storybook architecture, parks where kids can run free, sweet treats around every corner, and activities that work beautifully for multi-generational trips. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or pairing it with a Central Coast road trip, Solvang makes family travel feel easy, relaxed, and genuinely fun.
Why families love Solvang:
Walkable, stroller-friendly downtown with fairytale-style streets and courtyards
Horse-drawn trolley & carriage rides that kids absolutely love
Hans Christian Andersen Museum & Book Loft for storytime magic
Amazing parks for kids – Hans Christian Andersen Park and Sunny Fields Park are standouts
Danish bakeries everywhere – easy wins for snacks and desserts
Kid-friendly restaurants with familiar favorites and casual vibes
Family-friendly hotels with pools perfect for downtime
Outdoor activities nearby – easy hikes, picnic spots, and open space
Perfect for multi-generational travel – something for toddlers, parents, and grandparents
If you’re looking for a California family destination that feels magical without being overwhelming, Solvang is a total win — charming, relaxed, and made for making memories together.
5. Big Bear Lake
Best for: Easy snow getaway from Los Angeles
Why Families Love Visiting Big Bear Lake in Spring
Spring is one of the best-kept secrets for family travel to Big Bear Lake. As the snow melts and the mountains wake up, this Southern California favorite becomes the perfect mix of fresh air, outdoor fun, and slower-paced days — without the crowds of summer or the chaos of ski season. With mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and affordable cabin stays, Big Bear Lake in spring is an easy win for families who want adventure and downtime.
Why families love Big Bear Lake in spring:
Spring scenery everywhere – blooming wildflowers, budding trees, and bluebird skies
Kid-friendly hiking trails – cool temps, lake views, and fewer hikers
Bear Mountain spring activities – hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and golf
Lake activities return – boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing
Cabin rentals at better prices – more space, hot tubs, decks, and family time
Perfect day-to-night weather – warm days, cool nights for fires and cozy evenings
Great for all ages – outdoor fun for kids, peaceful moments for parents
Just two hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is one of the most accessible winter destinations in Southern California. While smaller than Tahoe or Mammoth, it’s perfect for casual skiers, families, and cozy cabin stays.
Winter activities include skiing, snow play, tubing, and lakeside walks when weather allows.
6. Palm Springs
Best for: Warm winter escape
Why Families Love Visiting Palm Springs
Palm Springs is one of those rare destinations that feels like a true reset for parents and a nonstop playground for kids — especially in winter and spring. With sunshine almost every day, easy travel access, short outdoor adventures, and plenty of pool time built right in, Palm Springs is a favorite for families looking to escape colder climates without overpacking their itinerary. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, Palm Springs makes family travel feel light, warm, and easy.
Why families love Palm Springs:
Perfect winter & spring weather – sunny, warm days without extreme heat
Easy flights – direct routes from many West Coast cities into Palm Springs International Airport
Family-friendly hiking – short, scenic hikes like Tahquitz Canyon and oasis trails
Works for all ages – relaxing for parents, exciting for kids
If you’re looking for a California family vacation that delivers sunshine, simplicity, and unforgettable memories, Palm Springs is a go-to — especially during winter and spring.
7. Joshua Tree National Park
Best for: Hiking, stargazing, desert landscapes
Why Families Love Visiting Joshua Tree National Park With Kids
If you’re looking for a California family getaway that feels adventurous (but still totally doable with little kids), Joshua Tree National Park is a slam dunk. Between the giant boulders, quirky desert views, short kid-friendly trails, and the kind of wide-open space that lets kids explore safely, Joshua Tree feels like nature’s biggest playground. It’s especially perfect in spring and winter, when the temperatures are comfortable and you can actually enjoy being outside all day.
Why families love Joshua Tree with kids:
Natural playground vibes – endless boulders for climbing, scrambling, and exploring
Easy kid-friendly hikes – short trails with big “wow” moments (Discovery Trail, Hidden Valley, Skull Rock)
Self-guided driving route – great for naps, snack breaks, and seeing a lot without overdoing it
Unique desert scenery – Joshua trees, cactus gardens, rock formations, and wide-open views
Amazing stargazing – some of the best night skies for family “look up” moments
Flexible places to stay – Airbnbs with kitchens, campgrounds, and fun glamping options
Junior Ranger program – a fun way to keep kids engaged and learning
Extra fun nearby – Pioneertown, rock shops, quirky museums, and easy kid-friendly stops
Works with toddlers & babies – as long as you bring water, sun protection, and a carrier
8. Sonoma
Best for: Wine country without crowds
Why Families Love Visiting Sonoma Valley, California
Sonoma Valley is often known for wine country (and yes, it’s amazing), but it’s also a surprisingly great family-friendly getaway in Northern California—especially when you want something that feels relaxing for parents and still fun for kids. With a walkable historic downtown, parks and easy trails, farm-fresh food, and plenty of open space, Sonoma is the kind of trip that works for couples, families, and even multi-generational travel without feeling overplanned.
Why families love Sonoma Valley:
Easy weekend getaway – close to San Francisco and a beautiful drive for a quick escape
Historic downtown plaza – stroller-friendly, walkable, and full of charm (Sonoma Plaza + Mission area)
Wine country scenery – vineyards, rolling hills, and relaxed tasting rooms (many with outdoor space)
Farm-to-table food – fresh local produce, artisan cheese, olive oil, and easy foodie stops
Outdoor adventures – parks, trails, and nearby river activities like kayaking on the Russian River
Spa + downtime for parents – great options for a reset while kids enjoy slower-paced days
Arts & culture – small museums, galleries, and live music around the plaza
Festivals and farmers markets – easy “family outing” energy with local treats and entertainment
Works for multi-generational trips – grandparents love the pace, kids love the space
Welcoming for everyone – Sonoma is known for being friendly, inclusive, and easygoing
9. Sequoia National Park
Best for: Snowy forests, fewer crowds
Why Families Love Visiting Sequoia National Park (Especially With Kids)
Sequoia National Park is one of those places that instantly puts life into perspective — and kids feel it just as much as adults do. Standing beneath the world’s largest trees, hiking through quiet forest trails, and taking in jaw-dropping mountain views makes this park feel both awe-inspiring and grounding. For families, it’s a rare mix of educational, adventurous, and calming, with plenty of space to explore at your own pace.
Why families love Sequoia National Park:
Giant sequoia trees – seeing trees like the General Sherman Tree makes kids feel tiny (in the best way)
Peaceful hiking trails – wide trails, forest paths, and options for all ability levels
Giant Forest Grove – an unforgettable walk through some of the largest trees on Earth
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway – a stunning drive packed with photo stops and wow moments
Moro Rock Trail – a short, memorable climb with panoramic views kids will talk about forever
Wide-open space – fewer crowds than many California parks, especially outside peak season
Built-in learning – nature, geology, and history come alive without feeling like a lesson
Great for family bonding – slow mornings, big hikes, and shared “can you believe this?” moments
10. Mendocino
Best for: Whale watching, rugged coastline
Why Families Love Visiting Mendocino
Mendocino is one of those rare coastal destinations that feels calm, outdoorsy, and genuinely fun for families — without needing a packed itinerary. Between redwood forests, dramatic ocean views, easy adventures, and kid-friendly experiences just outside town, Mendocino makes it easy to slow down while still giving kids plenty to explore. It’s especially perfect if you love nature-forward trips, scenic drives, and low-key family fun.
Why families love Mendocino:
The Skunk Train from Fort Bragg – a historic train ride through redwoods with forest exploring built in
Family-friendly wine country nearby – Anderson Valley wineries with open space (and even playgrounds)
So many state parks – redwood hikes, waterfalls, beaches, and short kid-friendly trails
Epic coastal scenery – Big Sur–level views with fewer crowds
Mendocino Music Festival (July) – outdoor performances where kids can dance on the grass
Scenic road trips – Highway 1 and Highway 128 are destinations on their own
Whale watching (Dec–April) – often visible right from the cliffs
Kayaking & river time – calm waters along Big River and nearby estuaries
Great for all ages – works beautifully for multi-generational trips
11. Yosemite National Park
Best for: Snowy landscapes, photography
Why Families Love Yosemite National Park (Day 1 Highlights)
Yosemite is one of those places that instantly pulls kids and adults into the moment of relaxation. It mixes gentle hikes, jaw-dropping views, and classic Yosemite moments without pushing anyone too hard. Families love that the day feels full, exciting, and manageable, especially after travel.
Why families love starting their Yosemite trip here:
Easy access from Fresno – a smooth arrival that takes the stress out of logistics
Mirror Lake – an easy, family-friendly walk with beautiful reflections of Yosemite’s iconic granite cliffs
Tunnel View – the classic Yosemite photo spot where kids and adults alike stop and stare
El Capitan Meadow – spotting real climbers high on the rock face is unforgettable for kids
Picnic-style meals – relaxed outdoor dining that works well for families
Short, doable hikes – perfect for warming up without exhausting little legs
Instant “wow” factor – famous sights right away that set the tone for the whole trip
Comfortable nearby lodging – a cozy home base to recharge after a big first day
This kind of first day helps families ease into Yosemite, build excitement, and start creating those “remember
12. Laguna Beach
Best for: Coastal walks, mild winter weather
Why Families Love Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is one of those rare coastal towns that checks everyone’s boxes — kids, parents, grandparents, and even the family dog. With year-round sunshine, walkable streets, and a laid-back artsy vibe, it’s easy to slow down here while still giving kids plenty to explore. It’s beachy, creative, outdoorsy, and relaxing all at once — which is exactly why families keep coming back.
Why families love vacationing in Laguna Beach:
Art everywhere – colorful murals, sculptures, and creative spaces that turn walks into mini scavenger hunts
Wildlife moments – whales offshore, dolphins in the waves, tide pools full of tiny sea creatures
Easy walking tours – stroller-friendly paths with ocean views, gardens, and art stops along the way
So many beaches – over 30 coves and stretches of sand, each with a different vibe for swimming, exploring, or relaxing
Kid-friendly beach fun – surfing lessons, tide pooling, volleyball courts, and boardwalk strolls
Wellness for parents – beach yoga and peaceful coastal studios while kids burn energy nearby
Perfect weather year-round – warm summers, mild winters, and outdoor fun in every season
Family-friendly hotels – walkable to the beach, pet-friendly, and close to shops and dining
13. Santa Barbara
Best for: Coastal city vibes, wine & food
Why Families Love Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara has a way of feeling effortlessly perfect for families. It’s calm but never boring, scenic without being overwhelming, and polished without feeling stuffy. Nestled between the mountains and the ocean along California’s Central Coast, it’s the kind of place where parents can truly relax while kids stay happily entertained. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, expecting a new baby, or easing back into family travel, Santa Barbara just works.
Why families keep choosing Santa Barbara:
The best of beach + mountains – ocean breezes, palm-lined paths, gardens, and scenic backdrops everywhere you look
Easy, beautiful drive – just a couple hours north of LA on the Pacific Coast Highway, making the journey part of the fun
Walkable beach access – beaches, parks, restaurants, and bike paths all close together (huge win with kids)
An incredible, family-loved zoo – small enough to manage, exciting enough to wow (giraffe feedings are unforgettable)
Botanical gardens made for exploring – trails, streams, climbing rocks, and play structures that feel like nature’s playground
Gentle ocean adventures – sailing, spotting sea lions, and enjoying the coast without intense activity
Hands-on museums – natural history exhibits and outdoor dinosaur displays that captivate little ones
Next-level playgrounds – storybook-style parks that kids won’t want to leave
Family-friendly resorts – spacious rooms, great pools, blackout curtains, and easy nap-time logistics
Amazing food scene – elevated dining for parents with plenty of welcoming spots for kids
Ideal weather – mild, sunny, and comfortable for outdoor fun year-round
Santa Barbara is one of those rare destinations where families can slow down, soak it all in, and still pack their days with meaningful experiences. It’s elegant, easygoing, and endlessly inviting — the kind of place you leave already planning your return.
14. Mount Shasta
Best for: Snow adventures, spiritual retreats
Why Families Love Shasta Cascade
Shasta Cascade is one of California’s most underrated family destinations — a place where wide-open nature, uncrowded attractions, and old-school outdoor fun come together perfectly. It’s adventurous without being overwhelming, educational without feeling like school, and refreshing in the most literal sense (hello lakes, waterfalls, and cool mountain air). Families love it because kids can be kids here, and parents actually get to relax.
Why families keep coming back to Shasta Cascade:
Houseboat adventures on Lake Shasta – pajamas, fishing, swimming, and floating with over 400 miles of shoreline to explore
Lake Shasta Caverns – a boat ride + cave tour combo that turns geology into a real-life adventure (and stays cool even on hot days)
Shasta Dam tours – a surprisingly fascinating stop that mixes history, engineering, and storytelling for curious kids
Tubing, wakeboarding & water sports – warm summer water and easy rentals make lake days effortless
Lake Siskiyou fun – sandy beaches, picnic spots, scenic trails, and a floating aqua park with Mount Shasta as the backdrop
Swimmable waterfalls – cool off at McCloud Falls with short hikes and natural pools
Burney Falls – one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North America and an easy stop families won’t forget
Lassen Volcanic National Park – bubbling mud pots, volcanoes, and epic scenery without Yosemite-level crowds
Sundial Bridge & Turtle Bay Exploration Park – hands-on learning, outdoor play, and a stunning architectural landmark in Redding
15. Channel Islands National Park
Best for: Wildlife, uncrowded exploration
Winter brings migrating whales, sea lions, and fewer visitors to Channel Islands National Park. Calm winter days can offer excellent kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing — making this a hidden gem for winter travelers.
Why families fall in love with the Channel Islands:
The boat ride alone is an adventure – dolphins racing the ferry, sea lions popping up, and whales often spotted along the way
Wildlife kids can’t believe is real – the adorable island fox (about the size of a housecat!) lives nowhere else on Earth
Five completely different islands – each with its own personality, scenery, and level of adventure
Ocean adventures galore – kayaking through sea caves, snorkeling in crystal-clear water, tide pooling, and beach exploring
Easy-to-epic hiking options – coastal trails, wildflower fields, and jaw-dropping viewpoints without the crowds
Dr. Seuss–level landscapes – windswept grasses, poppies, miniature oak trees, and wide-open skies
Unmatched unplugged time – no shops, no traffic, no noise — just nature and togetherness
Remote camping experiences – a chance to show kids what real adventure feels like
Mind-blowing sunsets & stars – dark skies and quiet nights that feel almost unreal
Each island offers something different:
Anacapa – iconic lighthouse views and unforgettable sunsets
Santa Cruz – sea caves, fox sightings, and the most family-friendly adventures
Santa Rosa – sweeping canyons, beaches, and star-filled nights
San Miguel – wild beaches and massive wildlife gatherings
Santa Barbara Island – peaceful, remote, and often blissfully empty
Channel Islands National Park is the kind of place families talk about for years afterward — a rare, awe-filled escape that reminds everyone how big, beautiful, and exciting the world really is.
Closing
California in winter is honestly one of the biggest travel secrets for families — because where else can you build a snowman in the morning and eat tacos by the beach a few days later? Whether you’re craving cozy cabin vibes in Mammoth, desert adventure in Joshua Tree, whale watching on the Channel Islands, or an easy sunshine reset in Palm Springs, there’s a winter destination here for every type of family. And the best part? Winter travel often comes with fewer crowds, better prices, and more space to actually slow down and enjoy being together. So if your family is overdue for fresh air, new memories, and a little break from the routine, pick one of these incredible spots and go. Because the season doesn’t matter nearly as much as the moments you create — and winter might just be the perfect time to do it.
When Veronica isn’t driving the kids around town or organizing family events and playdates, she’s busy building Boss Mama and advising her other companies — proving that motherhood and entrepreneurship can thrive side by side.
.svg)
