California roadtrip with kids

Hi,

We are planning a 7 day road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco in August with our two kids (4 and 12), and would like to know what are the best places to see. Hotel suggestions also welcome!

Thank you.

California roadtrip with kids

Los Angeles - of course, Disneyland (many suggestions...perhaps Candy Cane Inn).

http://www.candycaneinn.net/

Hollywood - just to see it (Magic Castle Hotel has large suites with small kitchens and living rooms which would be nice.

http://www.magiccastlehotel.com/

You might like to go to Magic Castle, El Capitan Theater, Universal Studios and/or Manns Chinese theater while in the area. El Capitan is a fun Walt Disney theater with movie, short play, and organ music. Fun to go to for the family.

Pismo Beach - about 3 to 4 hours north of Hollywood along the ocean...fun for familes.

Pismo Beach LIghthouse Suites

http://www.pismolighthousesuites.com/

Then drive from Pismo Beach to Morro Bay and up the coast to Big Sur. Perhaps an overnight in Big Sur area (see forum for idea)...or perhaps stay at:

Big Sur Lodge

http://www.bigsurlodge.com/

Continue up to Pt. Lobos (great state park to stop at), Monterey, Carmel and stay overnight in Santa Cruz (across from the Santa Cruz Boardwalk).

Recommend Coast Hotel - Santa Cruz due to location right by the main attractions and ocean.

coasthotels.com/hotels/…overview

http://www.beachboardwalk.com/

(Note: You might like to go to Roaring Camp or Big Basin to see the redwood trees while in this area.)

http://www.roaringcamp.com/

http://www.bigbasin.org/

Then drive the 90 minute drive or so to San Francisco and spend the last nights of your trip.