Southern California, also known as SoCal, is a megaregion in the state of California. It houses a number of urban areas including Greater Los Angeles, Greater San Diego, Orange County and the Inland Empire. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean allows it to host many renowned coastal destinations frequented by both tourists and locals. It is also home to Disneyland and Hollywood, which further strengthens its family-friendly and entertainment appeal for tourists.
Beach and Coastal Areas
SoCal offers a great number of RV parks, boardwalks, beach resorts, and other interesting coastal spots. The more popular areas known for these attractions include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Huntington Beach.
Visitors can check out the USS Midway in downtown San Diego’s Navy Pier. This famous attraction features an amazing flight deck view where families can take photos or simply bum around and enjoy the awe-inspiring sights. Pismo Beach is a classic California beach town where travelers can drive around the beach and tour the wine country. Dubbed as the “Clam Capital of the World” since the 1950s, families can experience the city’s Clam Festival every October. Travelers can also check out the premier tourist areas around San Francisco’s China Beach and Ocean Beach.
Theme, Nature, and Water Parks
Home to Disneyland, Anaheim is a fun family destination filled with theme, nature, and water parks. It is also home to a variety of family-friendly hotels. Disney lovers can explore Disneyland and other similar attractions including the Disney California Adventure Park and the free, lively promenade called the Downtown Disney District. Families can also check out the nearby Knott’s Berry Farm, Adventure City and Six Flags Magic Mountain.
For an old-fashioned amusement park experience in San Diego, tourists can try the Belmont Park within the Mission Beach boardwalk. Nature and animal lovers can also enjoy the San Diego Botanic Garden, Seaworld San Diego, San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and La Jolla’s Birch Aquarium. Legoland California located just north of San Diego features a large theme park filled with amazing Lego blocks. Those in the San Francisco area can go to the California’s Great America theme park and the Safari-themed jungle gym called Safari Run.
Hollywood Entertainment Attractions
Wholesome Hollywood attractions abound in the Los Angeles area. Fun tours and rides are available at Universal Studios Hollywood and other nearby tourist destinations. The Disney’s Soda Fountain located just beside the historical El Capitan Theatre provides guests with an old-fashioned ice cream parlor experience. Walking around the area is also enjoyable with the sights of the ever-popular Hollywood Walk of Fame. For a family movie treat, especially when animation and children’s movies are showing, the legendary Grauman’s Chinese Theater is just located a few paces away. The nearby Hollywood Bowl is another historic spot famous for its concert performances. Families can also visit the Guinness World of Records Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and Hollywood Wax Museum.