The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in California

If you’re planning your next family getaway, this list of the best family-friendly hotels in California has you covered. As a parent of a toddler living in Northern California, I’ve had my fair share of stays at kid-friendly resorts and hotels in the state.

One of the big lessons I took away when our daughter became a toddler was just how important a kid-friendly hotel can be. While she was a baby, I pretty much took her everywhere in terms of hotels — especially those pre-crawling days. So in my opinion, anywhere is “baby-friendly” to a degree as long as the hotel or resort allows young children.

Now when they become toddlers and become older, it’s an entirely different game. I learned this the hard way when we took her to a luxury hotel that did allow kids but just wasn’t the right spot to bring our 14-month-old — queue the small pool with adults quietly reading around it. So now I have a bit of criteria I look at when I consider what is a “family-friendly” hotel.

And I’ll give this opinion upfront — any hotel can technically be family-friendly if allowing kids, the question is whether or not certain amenities and space will be better suited for your family trip. I know having certain elements helps our trips be more enjoyable and less stressful when they’re available. My toddler has traveled around the world and stayed in dozens of luxury and boutique hotels, so I know it is possible to have both.

But when it comes to picking one that is truly kid-forward, well that’s a game changer. And I’m not talking kitschy waterslides and funky decor — proper hotels the whole family can enjoy and your young kids are also taken care of.

Okay, let’s get into it. I certainly have my favorite family-friendly Northern California hotels since we are local here. Then another half dozen I’ve bookmarked, researched, and wouldn’t hesitate to bring my young family. Read on for your list of the best family-friendly hotels in California.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Family-Friendly Hotels in California:

1. Dawn Ranch (Guerneville), for best Northern California outdoor getaway
2. Carmel Valley Ranch, for best upscale resort getaway with kid’s activities
3. Steward Santa Barbara, for best “design for dollar” getaway

The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in California

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Editor’s Note: My Approach to Family-Friendly Hotels

I have a few things I like to look at when I consider a hotel “family-friendly.” One of the best things at this toddler stage has been simply open space. Can I let my child freely move their body without disturbing other guests? That’s such a big win for us as a family when we are on the road.

The next element is the room design. We can’t always afford a two-bedroom suite, but some hotels have spacious rooms in general. So I look for hotels that offer rooms where we could tuck the crib somewhere and we could still enjoy the room or even a terrace. My next preference is any hotel that offers stand-alone rooms. Something about not having to share a wall takes the stress away.

The last element is dining. If there is an onsite restaurant, I’m all in. It’s so much easier to walk over to the restaurant to eat rather than getting all in the car for some meals. So these are a few things I love about a hotel that makes me feel at ease when traveling with our little one.

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Best Northern California Hotels for Families

Dawn Ranch (Guerneville)

Dawn Ranch in Guerneville has to be one of our favorite family-friendly hotels in California. I loved our stay there this fall in their private 2-bedroom cabin. So easy, with tons of outdoor spaces (like acres on acres), and everyone was very welcoming. The restaurant at the lodge is well equipped with everything you need for littles. It’s one of those family-forward hotel stays. We will be returning again soon! Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Individual rooms
• Open space
• Kid-friendly activities
• Onsite restaurant

Montage Healdsburg (Healdsburg)

Where to begin? The Montage Resorts are just the absolute best for luxury family vacations. I had the chance to come to spend a few nights at Montage Healdsburg with our whole family and felt so welcomed. They have everything you need for a family stay — I’d put this hotel in the “family-forward” bucket. There’s a kid’s activity center, bikes for use, and so much more on the property. The Montage Healdsburg is the epitome of being both luxury and family-friendly. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Kid amenities
• Open space
• Kid-friendly activities
• Onsite restaurant

Mendocino Grove (Mendocino)

If you’re up for a glamping experience, Mendocino Grove, is lovely. I’ve stayed here a few times, and the campground is always full of kids running around. You’re close to Mendocino town, you can do nature walks on the property, and it’s well-equipped. If I could flag one thing it’s that the walls are canvas, so I probably wouldn’t bring my super young infant here until they were a bit older. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Individual tents
• Breakfast included in the morning
• Open nature space

The Sea Ranch Lodge (Sea Ranch)

Located on the Sonoma Coast in Sea Ranch, The Sea Ranch Lodge went under a massive renovation. A part of that was updating the rooms and restaurant, all so family-friendly. We’ve been meaning to make our way after several friends have taken their littles here. When I was there last, the grounds had several flat trails to enjoy, a great restaurant/cafe onsite, and more. There are even family suites available to book. Seasonally, there are also events for kids as well. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Open space in nature
• Onsite restaurant
• Family suites
• Kid activities

Timber Cove Resort (Near Jenner)

While the last time I stayed at Timber Cove was sans kids, I’ve since taken our toddler to the property just to explore. Mostly because the lodge itself is so kid-friendly, there are games, pool tables, and a lot of areas to roam. For the Timber Cove, do note that the base rooms are tight so you may consider booking a bigger room if you have a kid who is 1 or older. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Kid-friendly property
• Good location

The Lodge at Bodega Bay (Bodega Bay)

I’ve had The Lodge at Bodega Bay bookmarked for a while after seeing how many room types were available for families. Hoping to get out here soon, the hotel has a lot on offer for families. There is a restaurant on-site and it is close to everything in the Bodega Bay area and more. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Family suites
• Open space
• Onsite restaurant

Olema House (Near Point Reyes)

Another favorite stay with our toddler this year was Olema House near Point Reyes. The inn is on the smaller side, but it has this amazing backyard space. So much room to explore, there’s a creek that runs through and a massive lawn. During the summer months, they set up teepees with kids’ games and activities. Right next door is the tavern, so you can walk over for meals as well. If you’re booking a room here with kids, do know that the base categories are small historic rooms so keep this in mind. I’d look at the Drake Suite or one of the cottages. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Open space
• Location
• Onsite dining

Beltane Ranch (Glen Ellen, Sonoma)

105 acres, garden, and farm — Beltane Ranch is a dream for a family getaway in wine country. If you’re looking for a countryside escape, and still want to be close to it all in Sonoma Valley, I love this hotel. I’d look to book one of their bigger rooms if possible like the Valley View Triple. And did I mention the delivered breakfast? Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Open space
• Breakfast
• Location

MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa (Sonoma)

For a downtown stay near Sonoma Plaza, MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa has been one of our favorite family-friendly hotels. We stayed here last year with our toddler and felt very well taken care of. The grounds have several grassy areas and the pool has been recently updated. If you are planning to stay here, it is worth it to go up a room category or two as these rooms do get significantly bigger. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Onsite restaurant
• Spacious suites
• Great location

Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley (Near Calistoga)

Of all the luxury resorts in Napa Valley, the Four Seasons does a great job with little ones. The suites are massive so that is a win to begin with. Tons of walking paths, and you’re close to Calistoga as well. On the property, there is even a “kid-friendly” pool so you won’t feel like you’re disturbing other guests while there. I loved our stay here last year and did you know kids under 4 eat free with an accompanying dining adult? Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Kid-friendly activities and pool
• Spacious suites
• Onsite restaurant

Edgewood Tahoe Resort (South Lake Tahoe)

As Tahoe’s only lakefront luxury resort, there is no better hotel for a family getaway in the Lake Tahoe region than Edgewood. For those looking for larger suites to better suit a family vacation, take a look at their “Villa Suites” — super spacious and perfect for a group. On the property, there are several kid-friendly activities like s’mores, ice skating rinks in the winter, and more. It’s an elevated, luxury stay with all the amenities for a family getaway. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Luxury family trip
• Large suites
• Onsite amenities

Desolation Hope Valley (Markleeville)

Hope Valley has been, time and time again, one of our favorite “wilderness” getaways not far from Sacramento. The valley has incredible walking trails, and if you want to visit South Lake Tahoe, you’re still close enough to do so. Desolation Hotels took over The Wylder, where we usually stop for a meal. The property offers several cabins, many of which are suited for 4 people. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Adventure travel
• Individual cabins
• Outdoor space

Autocamp Yosemite Valley (Midpines, near Yosemite National Park)

AutoCamp Yosemite Valley is a family-friendly hotel due to its spacious accommodations that can comfortably host families of all sizes, including luxurious Airstream trailers and well-equipped tents. The campsite’s convenient location is just minutes from Yosemite‘s sights and hiking trails. Additionally, the on-site amenities, communal areas, and family-oriented activities create a welcoming atmosphere. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• good location
• individual cabins
• onsite activities

Rush Creek Lodge (Groveland, Yosemite National Park)

Rush Creek Lodge is a family-friendly destination thanks to its spacious family suites and adjoining rooms, providing ample space and privacy for parents and children. The lodge also offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities and amenities, including a pool with a waterslide, a game room, and family-friendly dining options. This is an excellent option for those with bigger groups of travelers as well. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Adjoining suites
• Onsite amenities
• Location

Huttopia Wine Country (Lower Lake, Lake County)

I had the pleasure of staying at Huttopia Wine Country, about an hour outside of Napa Valley. The whole property is geared towards family travel. There was a pool with everything you could need and even a small playground for young kids. The only caveat to this property is that they are glamping tents, so keep this in mind when deciding if it’s the right fit for you. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Individual rooms
• Onsite park and pool
• Open space

Palace Hotel (San Francisco)

Palace Hotel is one hotel on my list for bringing my daughter when she is a bit older around ages 3-4. While luxurious, the hotel is also very catering to young families. I have my eye on bringing her here for the holidays to partake in the “Prince and Princess” afternoon tea and more. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Special occasions
• Great service
• Kid-friendly experiences

The Lodge at the Presidio (San Francisco)

For family-friendly hotels in San Francisco, I always recommend the Lodge at the Presidio. It’s quiet, close to a lot of things to do in the Marina, like the new Presidio Tunnel Tops Park and Outpost Playground. Rooms are spacious depending on which category you go with as well. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Location
• Open space

Cavallo Point Lodge (Sausalito)

Another one of my favorite hotels in Northern California for a quiet getaway in Marin is Cavallo Point. It’s a stunning property, and the suites are massive. There is so much free space to enjoy here as well, which is a total perk for young kids. Plus, you’re right next to Sausalito and San Francisco. And don’t miss eating at their restaurant; the views of the city are incredible. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Location
• Large suites
• Open space

AC Hotel by Mariott San Rafael (San Rafael)

Finding a good hotel in Marin County that gets you in range of all there is to do is tough. AC Hotel San Rafael is definitely geared towards more business travelers, but I still think this location is a good fit for families who are looking for a home base in Marin. The hotel is brand new and well done and you’ll be close to everything you want to do in the area. There are spacious room options as well here. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Location

Humboldt Bay Social Club (Near Trinidad and Redwood National and State Parks)

If you find your way up north to explore the most northern part of the state, Humboldt Bay Social Club is a great option for the whole family. It’s super relaxed with plenty of areas for kids to run around. The onsite bar is also equipped with everything you need to barbeque oysters and burgers. I loved our stay here when we went, so many kids running around having fun. Plus, there are individual homes available for one-week rentals as well. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Large families
• Bonfires and grounds to roam
• Individual accommodations

Scotia Lodge (Scotia)

As a sister property to Humboldt Bay Social Club, Scotia Lodge is your best choice for being close to the Avenue of the Giants and Humboldt State Parks. There is a lobby bar with a small snack menu and drinks, so this could be helpful during the stay. What I love about this hotel is that there are two-bedroom suites available, super helpful with kids in tow! Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Location
• Two-room suites

Inn at Schoolhouse Creek (Near Mendocino)

Set in the small town of Little River just south of Mendocino, the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek is a great choice. I love their smaller cabins and cottages, which are great for families traveling. There are a few options for 2 bedrooms as well. There are freshly baked cookies on arrival, some rooms have kitchens, and there is a lot of open space as well. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Individual cottages
• Well-equipped rooms

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Best Central California Hotels for Families

Le Petit Pali at 8th Avenue (Carmel-by-the-Sea)

I debated on which hotel to recommend in downtown Carmel for being family-friendly. I love the design of Le Petit Pali at 8th Avenue, and with their “LPP Suite,” which is spacious and set with a sofa bed, I think this is a good choice. Many of the hotels in Carmel are quite small so keep this in mind when picking where to base yourself. Le Petit Pali at 8th Avenue is right in the heart of downtown, so you can easily walk to everything. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Good design
• Spacious suite option
• Location

Carmel Valley Ranch (Carmel Valley)

If I had to pick a spot in the Carmel area to bring my family it would be Carmel Valley Ranch. It’s the epitome of a family-friendly hotel in California, with so much open space and dozens of kid-specific activities. There is a pool, large suites, open space, a ranch, a farm, and everything else you could think of. When I was there, I’d say 60% of the clientele were family travelers. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Family activities
• Large suites
• Open space

Portola Hotel & Spa (Monterey)

I debated again on which hotel to recommend in Monterey for families; I ended up with Portola Hotel & Spa. Mostly because they have the most spacious suites available, which is great for kids, like their one-bedroom suite. The location is still great. You’re in the heart of downtown as well. Some of the suites even have dining tables in the room so you could do a meal in. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Large suites
• Amenities

Sanctuary Beach Resort (Marina)

Sanctuary Beach Resort in Marina offers a family-friendly atmosphere with spacious suites and beachfront accommodations. The resort offers kid-friendly activities, such as beachcombing and bonfires too. You’re also not far from nearby attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I’ve been eyeing this hotel for some time as a beachfront getaway along the central coast. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Beachfront
• Spacious suites
• Kid activities

The Dream Inn (Santa Cruz)

I went digging for the best hotel in Santa Cruz for families, and every great review pointed back to The Dream Inn. Its location is fantastic, right on the beachside of Santa Cruz, and the rooms look super spacious. I’d opt for this one in Santa Cruz when traveling with kids. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Beachfront
• Spacious rooms

Glen Oaks Big Sur (Big Sur)

Finding the right accommodations in Big Sur for families can be tricky, quite a few are adults-only. I always recommend Glen Oaks Big Sur as they have individual spacious cabins available for rent on the riverside of the Highway. They’re super cute, well set up and kids can roam around along the river trails. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Individual cabins
• Location
• Easy-going

White Water (Cambria)

I love the White Water in Cambria. It’s a more “adult” style hotel in terms of design and accommodations, but the rooms are quite large in most categories, so you could easily fit kids here. You’re also right across the street from the beach, which is great for a bit older age to go beachcombing. There is not much on the property besides the lounge space, so keep this in mind. I’d consider this a chic “roadside hotel.” Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Chic design
• Large rooms
• Across from beach

San Luis Creek Lodge (San Luis Obispo)

Similar to the White Water in Cambria, the San Luis Creek Lodge is one of those chic roadside hotels. There’s not a lot on the property besides the rooms themselves, but they are nice and spacious. It’s a good location in San Luis Obispo, and it makes for a great location to get out and explore. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Spacious rooms
• Location
• Coffee/pastries delivered to the room

Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach (Pismo Beach)

Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach is a lovely stay and so family-friendly. You’re right on the beach, which is a huge plus, and many of the rooms have options for families. There are bonfire pits, pools, a restaurant, and a bar, so it has a ton of great amenities onsite. When I was there, almost all of us were traveling with our littles! Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Amenities
• Beachfront
• Suites for families

Alisal Guest Ranch and Inn (Solvang)

Alisal Guest Ranch and Inn in Solvang is a haven for families due to its extensive array of family-oriented activities, including horseback riding, fishing, and children’s programs that immerse kids in the ranch experience. With spacious accommodations, dining options catering to children, and a picturesque setting in California’s wine country, the Alisal Guest Ranch provides a delightful and memorable family getaway. It’s a favorite of many of my friends for those with kids around age 4 and up. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Kid activities
• Dining
• All-inclusive ranch

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Best Southern California Hotels for Families

Steward Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara)

I recently stayed at the Steward Santa Barbara solo and all I could think of was how I wished I had my family with me! The suites are super spacious (go for one of the larger rooms), and there is tons of open green space, a pool, and a restaurant. You’re minutes from the airport which is a plus if you need to get to your hotel quickly with littles. I’m plotting a return trip here with my family! Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Larger suites
• Pool and amenities
• Location

Rosewood Miramar Beach (Montecito)

Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito is super family-friendly with its dedicated children’s experiences and activities. It’s a luxury hotel, so imagine all the services you could need right there. Additionally, the resort’s spacious family suites, kid-friendly dining options, and access to the beautiful Miramar Beach make it an ideal choice. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Luxury suites
• Kid-focused experiences
• Beachfront

Ojai Valley Inn (Ojai)

Of all the Ojai options, Ojai Valley Inn is the best choice for families. The larger resort caters well to all ages, and there are tons of things to do nearby. Pools, restaurants, and large suites make this the luxury resort to book in Ojai. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Large suites
• Amenities

Fairmont Miramar Beach and Bungalows (Santa Monica)

The Fairmont Group has always been a favorite hotel brand for me when it comes to luxury family getaways, and the Fairmont Miramar Beach is no exception. They go above and beyond to make families feel welcome. Their bungalow rooms are super spacious, and young kids get greeted with in-room amenities like a welcome snack platter, bath amenities, and robes. It’s super sweet, and I love how they take care of their little guests! Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Large suites
• Location
• Kid-forward experience

Palihouse Santa Monica (Santa Monica)

It’s not necessarily a “family hotel” but one that can suit families. Palihotel, in general, is known for larger suites, which is what I love about this hotel group. Palihouse Santa Monica, in particular, has some of the larger suites at around 600 square feet and even “one-bedroom” rooms too. There is a grassy area, the downstairs lounge has kids’ games, and the design is lovely. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Spacious suites
• Good design

The Beverley Hills Hotel (Beverley Hills)

This one may shock you that it’s super kid-friendly! The Beverly Hills Hotel is a favorite for all of our friends who have littles. It’s amazing and they go above and beyond. The onsite pool and restaurant make it super easy for families to hang out all day as well. This is one I’m hoping to get to this year! Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Elevated family-friendly stay
• Location
• Amenities

Kimpton La Peer Hotel (West Hollywood)

I’ve always been a fan of how Kimpton Hotels manages to keep things sleek and still welcome kids. Known for its welcome packet for littles, the Kimpton La Peer would be a good choice for the West Hollywood area. Their base rooms do run small, so I’d look at their specialty suites like the La Peer Suite or a studio suite if possible (there is a two-bedroom one as well). Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Location
• Design
• Suite options

Silver Lake Pool & Inn (Silver Lake)

I’ve had Silver Lake Pool & Inn bookmarked for a while, as we love visiting Silver Lake. The hotel is super trendy, great design, and there is a pool here. I think this would be a great relaxed stay that would welcome littles but not necessarily a “family hotel” if that makes sense. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Design
• Location

Lido House (Newport)

For a more boutique-style stay in Southern California, I’d look at the Lido House as an option. There are a few cottage-style rooms that would work well for families with young kids. You’re in an awesome location as well for exploring this part of the coast. The onsite restaurant is also a plus if you don’t want to leave. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Spacious suites
• Location
• Amenities

Laguna Beach House (Laguna Beach)

For an easier on-the-wallet stay in the Laguna area, check out the hip Laguna Beach House. They market the hotel as being “family-friendly” with several room options that would suit families. The location is also great in Laguna for getting to explore the beaches and downtown. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Hip design
• Location
• Family-friendly

Montage Laguna Beach (Laguna Beach)

Similar to the Montage Healdsburg, Montage Laguna Beach is the ultimate luxury resort on the coast for families. When I stayed here, there were so many families enjoying the family pool and littles running around the grassy area. There are several programs for young kids, this is a great amenity-focused hotel for families. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Luxury
• Kids programs
• Beachfront

Hotel del Coronado (Coronado)

Hotel del Coronado is one of the icons of the San Diego area, and for good reasons. The well-appointed rooms and location on the beach are perfect for families. They have a lot of other kids’ programs and a variety of age-appropriate activities available as well. There is no children’s pool specifically, but in general, this hotel is more aimed towards family travelers. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Kids activities
• Beachfront
• Family-friendly

Park Hyatt Aviara (Carlsbad)

Park Hyatt Aviara is a classic upscale resort with all the trimmings you need for a family vacation. For those visiting Legoland, you’re right around the corner, too. The beauty of this hotel is that it has wonderful suite options for families and all of the amenities you can want. The downside is that it is not on the beach, but it is still close by. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Spacious suites
• Amenities
• Kids activities

Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach a Hilton Resort & Spa (Carlsbad)

Of all the choices I researched in Carlsbad, Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach felt like the best. If you want to be on the beach, you’re right there, which is awesome. It’s definitely a lower-thrills kind of place, but you have everything you need for your stay. You’re still close to Legoland, as well. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Location
• Suites

Fairmont Grand Del Mar (Del Mar)

I included this one as families love the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in Del Mar because it offers spacious and comfortable family suites. There are also fun activities for kids, like a dedicated kids’ club and a cool family pool area with waterslides and splash pads. The resort combines luxury and family-friendliness, making it an excellent place for families of all sizes to have a memorable stay. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Large suites
• Kids activities
• Outdoor space

Beach Village at The Del (Coronado)

I wanted to include Beach Village at The Del as it consistently ranks as one of the best luxury family-friendly hotels in Southern California. The individual cottage rooms are set within the Hotel Del Coronado, which is a more luxurious, resort-style stay in the San Diego area. It is worth looking into their large rooms if you’re traveling with a larger group. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Luxury stay
• Large suites
• Beachfront

Parker Palm Springs (Palm Springs)

Finding a good hotel in actual Palm Springs that allows kids is tough. Parker Palm Springs is my choice, it’s always full of families too so you’ll feel that you fit right in. It’s chic, Palm Springs design forward, and always a trendy stay. I like it for me, I like that I can bring my little. And there is so much green space — it gives Alice in Wonderland vibes. Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Suites
• Open space
• Family-friendly location

Omni Rancho Las Palmas (Palm Desert)

As one of the best family resorts in Palm Desert, Omni Rancho Las Palmas focuses on welcoming family travelers. They have seasonal family activities ranging from holiday experiences to outdoor fun. There is even a “splashtopia” which has a lazy river and would be lovely for littles. But, I still love that the hotel feels upscale and not entirely “kid resort-esque.” Book the best rates here.

Great For

• Large suites
• Kids activities
• Kid-friendly pool

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