Good vacation spot for kids 2-3 hrs drive from San Jose - San Francisco?

Question

We are looking for good vacation spot for young kids near Bay Area where we can spend 2-3 days. we will like to find a location which is about 2-3 hours drive by car

Answer 1

My children always loved the Central Coast. It's not as crowded as southern California or Santa Cruz.

Pismo Beach is a fun area. You can rent a 4 wheeler by the hour or the day and ride the sand dunes. You can even drive your car right onto the beach and camp if you want. There are a lot of hotels located right on the beach as well. You will also find lots of vacation rentals in the area.

We often camped in the area. We would wake up early and find lots of sand dollars and seashells on the beach early in the morning. Fishing, swimming, boogie boarding, local theater, antique shops, great restaurants, and wineries are also possible activities. Every Thursday evening there's a big Farmers' Market in downtown San Luis Obispo that is fun for everyone.

Hearst Castle is not too far away as well as Solvang.

Answer 2

Monterey and Santa Cruz.

You can spend some time at the Monterey Bay Aquarium enjoying the amazing views and touch pools and exploring Cannery Row (some great eats). And then spend a day (or even that same evening) at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, playing on the beach, at the arcade and eating freshly pulled salt water taffy. I've done both with my kids numerous times and we all really enjoy it.

Answer 3

Yosemite is awe inspiring for sure, especially in the spring when the waterfalls are flowing fast. The kids might be fascinated by the giant trees at Seqoiua Nat. park too. Maybe you could find a place to do sme canoeing out there too.

Answer 4

Yosemite National Park is wonderful (with kids or without).