10-Day Family Adventure in Southern California Itinerary

Kick off your Anaheim adventure with a visit to Disneyland® Park. Arrive early to make the most of your day at this iconic theme park. Start with classic attractions like Sleeping Beauty Castle, It's a Small World, and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Take a break for lunch at one of Disneyland's themed restaurants before continuing with more rides and shows tailored for younger children such as Dumbo the Flying Elephant and Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage. Don't forget to capture some magical moments with Disney characters.

Stay for the evening parade and fireworks show which are sure to dazzle both kids and adults alike. Consider dining within Disneyland or returning to your hotel for dinner.

Begin your second day in Anaheim by exploring Disney California Adventure® Park. Enjoy thrilling rides like Radiator Springs Racers, Toy Story Midway Mania, and Soarin' Around the World. There's something for everyone in this exciting park.

Have lunch within Disney California Adventure before heading over to Pixar Pier where younger children can meet their favorite Pixar characters and enjoy gentle rides like Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind.

End your day with another spectacular show or parade in Disney California Adventure before heading back to rest up for another exciting day ahead.

Start your final day at Disneyland by revisiting your favorite rides or exploring any areas you might have missed. Consider starting with Adventureland for attractions like the Jungle Cruise and Indiana Jones Adventure. These rides offer a mix of excitement and adventure that will captivate both kids and adults.

Enjoy lunch at one of the park's themed restaurants before heading to Critter Country for family-friendly rides like The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This area is perfect for younger children who will love the whimsical atmosphere and gentle rides.

Wrap up your Disneyland adventure with a final parade or nighttime spectacular. Head back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest after three magical days in the happiest place on earth.

Take a ferry from Long Beach to Catalina Island. Upon arrival, explore the charming town of Avalon, visit the Catalina Island Museum, and enjoy some shopping in local boutiques. The island's relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after busy days at Disneyland.

Have lunch at a seaside restaurant before heading out for some outdoor activities. Consider renting bikes or golf carts to explore more of the island, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see marine life up close. The kids will love spotting fish and other sea creatures.

Relax on Descanso Beach where you can rent cabanas and enjoy beachside service. Return to Avalon for dinner at one of its family-friendly restaurants before taking the ferry back to Long Beach.

Drive down to San Diego and start your day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The kids will love seeing animals in more naturalistic settings and taking part in interactive exhibits. This expansive park offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and learning.

After lunch at one of the park's cafes, head over to La Jolla Cove for some beach time. The cove is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water while enjoying stunning coastal views. Don't forget to bring along some beach toys for added fun.

End your day with dinner in La Jolla Village where there are plenty of family-friendly dining options. Explore some local shops before heading back to your accommodation.

Begin your day exploring Balboa Park, home to numerous museums and beautiful gardens. Start with kid-friendly museums like the Fleet Science Center or San Diego Natural History Museum. These interactive exhibits will captivate the kids' imaginations and provide educational fun.

Have lunch within Balboa Park before continuing your exploration. Visit more attractions such as the San Diego Model Railroad Museum or take a ride on the historic Balboa Park Carousel. The park's expansive grounds offer plenty of space for the kids to run around and enjoy.

Finish off your day with dinner at one of Balboa Park's restaurants or venture into nearby neighborhoods like Hillcrest or North Park for more dining options. Consider taking a leisurely evening stroll through the park's beautifully lit gardens.

Start your final day in San Diego with a visit to the San Diego Zoo. This world-renowned zoo is home to thousands of animals and offers a variety of exhibits that will captivate both kids and adults. Don't miss the chance to see the giant pandas, elephants, and other exotic creatures.

After a morning at the zoo, head over to Seaport Village for lunch and some leisurely shopping. This waterfront complex features unique shops, casual dining options, and beautiful views of the harbor. The kids will enjoy exploring the quaint village atmosphere.

Wrap up your Southern California adventure with a sunset harbor cruise from San Diego Harbor. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and coastline as you sail through the bay. Consider having dinner on board or at one of the nearby waterfront restaurants before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day with a visit to Newport Beach. Enjoy the morning sun by taking a stroll along the beach, building sandcastles, or playing in the surf. The kids will love the wide sandy beaches and gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for family fun.

Head over to Balboa Fun Zone for lunch and some family-friendly entertainment. Enjoy arcade games, a Ferris wheel ride, and maybe even rent some bikes to explore the area further. The vibrant atmosphere of Balboa Fun Zone is sure to keep everyone entertained.

Take a harbor cruise to see Newport's beautiful coastline and marine life. End your day with dinner at one of Newport Beach's waterfront restaurants before heading back to your accommodation.

Drive up to Santa Barbara and start your day at the Santa Barbara Zoo. The zoo is perfect for families with young children, offering interactive exhibits and close encounters with animals that will delight kids of all ages.

Have lunch at one of Santa Barbara's charming cafes before heading to Stearns Wharf. Enjoy some ice cream while walking along the pier, or visit the Sea Center for some hands-on marine exhibits that are both fun and educational.

Finish off your trip with a relaxing evening at Butterfly Beach. Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean and enjoy a final family dinner at one of Santa Barbara's kid-friendly restaurants.