You’ll get the sand beneath your toes and the slides they love so much. San Diego is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country, so it makes sense that they would also have some of finest beachside parks too. These picturesque play spots deliver serene coastal views, cool ocean breezes, and maybe even some whale or dolphin spotting if you’re lucky. We’ve rounded up seven of our favorite beachside parks perfect for your next play date hang.

Whether you’re downtown or uptown, coastal, or inland, you don’t have to drive far to find a good hiking spot. Ahhhh…spending the day in nature…fresh air, green trees, a picturesque hike that will tire your kids so they conk out during the car ride home. SoCal is brimming with kid-friendly trails right in our very own neighborhoods so you don’t have to look far for some swell places to explore. These hikes are just a stone’s throw away from home, offer free parking, and feature paths that are easy to navigate. So no matter what part of the city you find yourself in, there’s a perfect place close by to hike the day away.

Roll it out with the whole family in the evening at Skateworld, a family run business that prides itself on creating an enjoyable, safe space for skaters to move and groove, no matter what age—or what time! With skate sessions for all ages, skate school, and other roller sports, there is something for everyone! And you can’t beat the trip down memory lane: Parents, show your kids your favorite moves from when you were little. You’ll find disco lights, great music, and lots of laughs.

From luxe airstreams in Joshua Tree National Park to ocean-view bungalows⁠—outdoor adventure is calling. Commune with the great outdoors in total comfort when family “camping” becomes family “glamping.” We’ve rounded up the cushiest, coziest, most luxe places to glamp in SoCal that offer all the fresh air and scenic views you want from a camping trip without the stress and mess of pitching a tent. From Airstream trailers and tiny houses to lovely yurts and waterside cabins, these spots have amenities galore!

Looking for the best kids’ birthday party spot in San Diego? From retro eats to animal encounters, these venues know how to celebrate. Even in San Diego we occasionally need a break from the cooler temps outside. If you’re looking beyond the trademark pool party or backyard barbecue, we’ve rounded up some of the best indoor spaces for your child’s next birthday party—and these venues are sure to keep even the littlest party guests busy and comfortable inside! In fact, these San Diego kids party venues are destined to make the event a fantastic celebration for young revelers: There’s a theme for every interest—from rocket ships and pirate ships to trampolines and giant hammocks. Read on for birthday ideas in San Diego sure to make your kid’s big day the absolute best!

No matter what time of year it is, it’s always a good time to clean out those toy boxes and donate toys that the kids are no longer playing with. The best part about donating your kids’ gently used play items? They can learn to gracefully give away the things they’ve outgrown and give them to recipients who can benefit from their generosity.

Trust us—eventually you’re going to get stir-crazy with a new baby at home. And if you’re ready to make the leap to the outside world, you may be wondering, what are the best places to go with a baby in tow around San Diego? Thankfully, we’ve compiled a fantastic list of things to do in San Diego with a baby that will keep you and your little bundle entertained like the best hikes, which swim lessons are worth your time and money, and of course, when to go to those Instagram-worthy flower fields in Carlsbad.

From easy trails to tough terrain, here’s where to explore San Diego on two wheels with the family in tow. Whether your little rider is a rookie on training wheels or an ace cyclist, here are some ‘wheely’ fun spots to get pedaling thanks to these best kid-friendly bike trails in San Diego. From easy biking trails to family bike paths and bike paths for kids, to straight and simple cool local park paths to pump tracks and dirt trails, our favorite bike trails for kids span from beginner to advanced. Find your family’s new favorite path below.

Everything you need to know about Christmas tree pick up service, recycling your tree and even recycling those Christmas tree lights. It was a holly, jolly Christmas admiring your perfect pine, but now it’s time to give back to Mother Nature and recycle your Christmas tree. It’s super easy to be green by recycling your Christmas tree to help aid the growth of new plants. Read on for the details on how to best bid farewell to your fir via Christmas tree recycling. We even tell you how to recycle your Christmas lights.

Ready to roar with the lions, roam with the wolves, or let a tarantula perch on your head? Do your kids want to learn how to be a vet, feed a zebra or sea turtle, or ride a camel? If your kid is curious about animals and love some animals facts, then we’ve got animal encounters nearby they’ll go wild for.

Dining al fresco with kids in tow gives your fam more space to spread out while eating outside in a relaxing atmosphere (not to mention the occasional cry or scream is quickly drowned out by the open space). From beautiful San Diego skyline views and spacious patios to urban villages and public markets with roomy outdoor seating, we’ve found something for every taste. Save this article and get ready to discover a new favorite restaurants with outdoor patios in San Diego.

With the giant tree aglow and the holiday lights twinkling, the largest outdoor ice rink in SoCal is a must-do this season. Get ready to do the bunny hop and swizzle. Grab a cup of cocoa (or pizza slice) from the ice rink’s snack shack, then lace up your skates for festive fun. Don’t forget to bundle up for the chilly winter nights. Bonus? Viejas ice skating is open Christmas day from 5-10 p.m.

Keeping kids entertained amidst the holiday buzz and extended school break isn’t always easy. Thankfully, winter camps are in full swing throughout San Diego. With options from surfing to junior theater to park ranger activities, these winter camps in San Diego will keep your little one inspired and engaged throughout the break. If you need even more ideas on how to bust boredom all season long, check out our 100 things to do in San Diego guide.

Need a little help with your holiday shopping for kids? These local toy stores in San Diego are here to help you find the games, puzzles, projects and one-of-a-kind gifts that kids (and their parents) adore. When you’re looking for the perfect toys to gift littles this holiday season, unique...

Family-friendly tips for celebrating at the Merriest Place on Earth. The holidays have arrived at the Disneyland Resort! From now through Jan. 8, 2023, families can get their fill of holiday magic that includes everything from a new food and drink lineup fit for foodies, to gorgeous holiday decor, and seasonal ride overlays.

Dreaming of a traffic-free trip from LA that still delivers fun, sun and then some? Look no further than easy-to-navigate Santa Barbara. Kids who are ‘loco’ for locomotives will go off the rails for this unforgettable train journey to Santa Barbara. The great walkability of this coastal town makes leaving the car at home a total breeze. From trolley rides and whale watching to museums and marine life, explore the sights via the Santa Barbara Car Free ‘Take the Train’ promotion which includes discounts on hotels, restaurants, and more kid-friendly activities. There are plenty of exciting activities to do with your kids in Santa Barbara that’ll give your family unforgettable memories.

Apple picking, epic roadtrips, and where to see fall foliage—your San Diego fall bucket list is full of family-friendly activities. Fall in San Diego is here (and predictably awesome) and there’s no better time to craft a fall activities in San Diego bucket list your whole family will love. To keep your fall FOMO at bay, keep reading for all of the fun stuff to do in San Diego this fall (and for more ideas, check out our date night ideas for San Diego parents and our favorite San Diego restaurants where kids can run around).