In an effort to build a broader community of family travel enthusiasts in the San Francisco Bay Area, I’ve moved my blogs to 99Places, a new travel community for San Francisco Bay Area Families. Please come check out the latest posts, events and travel forums there!
Recent posts include:
Sayulita Family Spring Break
Spring Break Travel Planning for Bay Area Families
Best Bay Area Pumpkin Patches
Top Five Family-Friendly Hotels in San Francisco
Ten Tips on Belize
and more!
Elk, seals, deer, migrating gray whales and accommodations that echo New England and Cape Cod? Yes, and it’s only a little more than an hour from San Francisco. In classic northern California fashion, this is a place where nature, cuisine, and culture come together in beautiful harmony.
What to Do:
Point Reyes National Seashore (map)
There is no lack of activities to undertake here and you probably want to start at the Visitors center to plan your day. The Point Reyes Weekend blog usually has a good summary of activities in the park.
Wildlife and Hikes
Discover seals and sea lions near the lighthouse. By March the adults start to move on but the pups remain until the summer months.
From December through May, watch the migration of California gray whales from the Point Reyes Lighthouse and Chimney Rock areas.
In late April and early May, you may see young whales close to shore with their mothers. Head out to Tomales Point to spot elk. This is a 4.7 mile trail but you don’t need to make it to the end. The elk can be spotted from early in the walk.
Hike the 1½-mile trail to Abbots Lagoon to spy migrating favorites, including hawks and peregrine falcons or the easy path to Drakes Estero, where shorebirds wade (jog stroller friendly). The Tomales Point trail not only offers views of elk but also a wealth of wild flowers in the spring. Earthquake trail offers a paved walk for those of you with strollers.
Beaches
Limantour Beach. A gem of a beach with soft sand, a cove for exploring (great for the kids) and tide pools filled with life.
Heart’s Desire Beach Nestled within Tomales Bay State Park, this is the area’s sunniest and warmest beach. There is a $6 charge to park at the family-friendly beach but it means you have access to nice amenities including bathrooms and picnic areas with grills. There is also a dock out in the water that you can swim to, jump off, lounge on, etc.
Shell Beach. A hidden local beach, you can almost miss the road signs leading to it (the sign for Camino del Mar is in fact obstructed from one direction). There is a short walking trail leads you into a very pristine and secluded stretch of beach.
Shell Beach
Where to Stay. While there are many lovely accommodations around Point Reyes, there are only a couple that will delight a family of four (or more).
Old Point Reyes Schoolhouse This compound offers both charm and entertainment for a family weekend in point Reyes. In addition to accommodations that can handle four our more, there is also bocce ball, basketball, a Jacuzzi and stores just a short walk down the street. $185-$245 for two, plus $15 for each additional person. (415) 663-1166, www.oldpointreyesschoolhouse.com.
Bear Valley Inn. For family accomodations, reserve the Hummingbird Cottage for $225 per night. 88 Bear Valley Road, Corner of Hwy 1 and Bear Valley Road, Olema, CA 94950
Ferrando’s Hideaway Bed and Breakfast Cottages. A nice set of cottages although a bit on the pricey side at $300 a night. They do offer an off-season mid-week special with two nights for the price of three. http://www.ferrando.com/index.html 31 Cypress Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Sea Mist Cottages. Quaint cottage rentals, built right over the bay at a very reasonable rate of $150 per night. Call 415/663-9543 http://www.seamistcottage.com/index.htm
Point Reyes Seashore Lodge. With a grassy area leading down to the creek, your kids will have lots of room to roam, right outside your room. The two cottages are best suited for families. Rates start at $295 a night for a cottage. 10021 State 1, Olema; www.pointreyesseashore.com or 415/663-9000.
Where to Eat
Spud Point Crab Company. This tiny take-out shop at the Spud Point Marina serves the world’s best clam chowder. Also try the smoked salmon and the crab sandwich, made with a Thousand Island dressing-based sauce. 1860 Bay Flat Road; 707/875-9472 or spudpointcrab.com
Hog Island Oyster Company. While there are several great spots for oysters, this generally ranks as having the best selection. Their Kumamotos get rave reviews. 20215 Hwy 1 Marshall, CA 94940 (415) 663-9218 www.hogislandoysters.com
Drakes Bay Oyster Farm Take an oyster knife, some drinks and make an afternoon out of shucking oysters and picnicing at this nice spot. 17171 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Inverness, CA 94937 (415) 669-1149 drakesbayfamilyfarms.com
Tomales Bay Foods. Tomales Bay Foods. What used to be a hay barn now houses a mecca for foodies, with a deli, a produce stand, and Cowgirl Creamery cheeses. Its also where Indian Peach puts out top-notch take-home dinners (try the port chops and roast chicken). 80 Fourth St. (at B St.), Point Reyes Station, (415) 663-8478.
Café Reyes . The owner brought dough ball starter from Naples and has been keeping it going ever since. The result is excellent pizza crust with variations like chicken-fennel sausage and olive pizza. They also serve tasty fresh oysters. 11101 State Route 1 N, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956. (415) 663-9493.
Santa Barbara is that transition point where Northern California stops and Southern California starts. The air is sweeter, the flowers brighter, and the water warmer. As such, it provides a relatively easy, warm beach get away for Bay Area residents who don’t want to wear their down parkas at the beach. Combine the balmy weather with beautiful beaches, fun family activities, and tremendous food and you have the makings of a great family trip.
Channel Islands off Santa Barbara
To Do
Channel Islands Day Trip
If you want incredible wildlife viewing and pristine islands, you may want to spend a day at the Channel Islands National Park. A trip to the park requires a boat ride and you can reserve a spot through concessionaires that run hikes, dives, and cruises out to the islands as well as experienced guides.
You can do a one day trip out to Anacapa island leaving Oxnard (about 45 minutes from Santa Barbara) at 9:30 and returning at 4:30 with a company called Island Packers. The boat trip is about one hour each way. Visitors rave about the island—wildflowers (particularly in March and April), birds, pelicans, seals and sea lions, gray and humpback whales. The walk on is rated moderate and the person I talked to said they often have young children (3, 4, 5).
East Beach
This is a beautiful beach complete with white sand, palm trees, and volleyball players. There are restrooms close by and if the kiddies get tired of the beach, you can watch the volleyball game, check out the skateboard park or head over the carousel across the street. The wharf is not far and you can catch a snack before or after your trip to the beach. I recommend the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company for some quick chowder or crab out on the picnic tables.
East Beach Santa Barbara
This is one of the coolest playgrounds I’ve been to. It has an incredible “Kid’s World” play structure with lots of different areas to explore. Dress your kids in bright clothes so you can track them on the play structure. There are swings, sand, and nice spots for the parents to sit. You are only a few blocks from downtown and a very convenient Starbucks but warning…your kids won’t want to leave!
1400 Santa Barbara St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 564-5418
Alameda Park
Santa Barbara Zoo
This small, friendly zoo will delight your kids. The penguins, lions and lemurs were all a big hit. There are some nice play spots for kids where the grown ups can relax as well. The small size allows the animals to be more “up close and personal” than in most zoos.
It’s only $11 for adults, and $4 per car to park. You get a discount if you belong to the San Francisco Zoo. Makes for a fun, low-key family adventure.
500 Ninos Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 962-5339
www.santabarbarazoo.org
Where to Stay
While there is no lack of accommodations in Santa Barbara, I struggle to find a place I can recommend with gusto for families. I personally like being close to downtown with options like the new Canary Hotel. If you want to be beach-side, you may want to check out the DoubleTree Inn or the Biltmore Four Seasons. Last time I made the trip, I gave up on the hotels all together and rented a great house for the family that was walking distance to downtown and right by Alameda Park from Paradise Retreats. I look forward to El Encanto opening this summer.
Hotel Santa Barbara
Hotel Santa Barbara is is centrally located on State Street with the excellent shopping and restaurants of Santa Barbara close at hand. It is the oldest hotel in Santa Barbara, historically charming, and tastefully updated.
533 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
This newly renovated hotel gets high marks on TripAdvisor. The rooms are quiet, the beds are comfortable and the décor is top notch. The Coast restaurant has some good appetizers and a happy hour but I’d head elsewhere for dinner.
31 West Carrillo Street, (Formerly Andalucia Hotel), Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Fess Parker’s DoubleTree Resort
Location, location. This hotel is across from East Beach and not far from downtown. It doesn’t have the four star staff and accommodations of the Four Seasons but the rates reflect that.
633 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Four Seasons
What can I say? The service great, it’s right on the beach, and it has a great pool. That said, it is a steep price to pay, particularly if you need two rooms to accomodate the whole family.
1260 Channel Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Paradise Retreats House Rentals. We rented the “Downtown Retreat” with another family and enjoyed the house and particularly its proximately to downtown. We could walk into town for lunch, play in the amazing Alameda park, and enjoy a media room for nighttime movies.
Where to Eat
Italian At Arnoldi’s. One of the city’s oldest restaurants, patrons can indulge in authentic fare (including handmade ravioli) and then indulge in some bocce in the yard.
600 Olive St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 962-5394
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Rather than waiting in line for an indoor table you can grab crab, chowder and other seafood delights at their take-out window and sit out on the picnic tables on the wharf. Watch out for greedy seagulls.
230 Stearns Wharf
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 966-6676
Tupelo Junction Café
A wonderful breakfast spot serving up delicious apple beignets, vanilla French toast, and pumpkin waffles.
1218 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 899-3100
www.tupelojunctioncafe.com
McConnell’s Ice Cream
Blueberry ice cream, cherry burgundy, banana splits. Locals swear by the generously sized cones at McConnell’s.
201 W Mission Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 569-2323
La Super Rica Taqueria
This local favorite got the nod from Julia Childs and has become the Santa Barbara place for authentic Mexican street food. While there is often a bit of a wait, the items on the menu are worth waiting for and the price tag will be a pleasant surprise as well. Enjoy your lunch out back on the patio.
622 N Milpas St
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 963-4940
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If you are looking for a warm beach vacation for Spring Break but don’t want to go far, consider La Jolla. While San Diego itself can be a bit overwhelming, La Jolla is a charming village that offers unmatched beach beauty, a walkable town filled with shops and cafes, and a wealth of nature-infused kid activities near by.
La Jolla Coast
This destination is even more appealing now that fares on SouthWest Airlines are only $120 roundtrip (as of February 27th).
To Do
La Jolla Cove
Brightly colored fish dart about a crystal clear cove considered to be a diving and swimming paradise. The beach is part of San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve. The water is clear and we recommend the guided snorkel tour of the cove for the whole family (or at least for everyone who can swim).
Coast Boulevard, La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Children’s Pool (Casa Beach)
Close to downtown La Jolla, the Children’s Pool — or the “Casa,” as locals have called it — is a tiny cove protected by a concrete breakwater. It was once a swimming area for children but is more recently home to sea lions. Bring a picnic and enjoy the antics of new inhabitants of the pool.
50 Coast Blvd (between Eads Ave & Jenner St), La Jolla, CA 92037
(619) 235-1169
La Jolla Shores Beach
This is pretty much beach nirvana. A one mile stretch of palm tree lined shoreline complete with flowers, paths, and picnic areas. This beautiful white sand beach has lifeguards, surfers, swimmers, frolicking families, kayakers, snorkelers…you name it. Either pack a lunch or stroll to nearby restaurants for a bite to eat. A short walk from the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club (below).
8200 Camino del Oro, San Diego, CA 92037
Torrey Pines State Reserve. Consider this one of the most breathtaking coast hikes in the US. There is an $8 entrance/parking fee and then you have an assortment of trails available to you, all with amazing views. Bring a picnic as there is no food available in the park.
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92039
(858) 755-2063
www.torreypine.org
Birch Aquarium At Scripps Institution of Oceanography . If you want to get even more up close and personal with the fish, consider the Birch Aquarium. A small facility, it tends to be less crowded than say, Marine World, and offers exhibits including the Hall of Fishes with 60 different habitats and a Shark Reef exhibit. $11 admission for adults, $7.50 for kids.
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 534-3474
aquarium.ucsd.edu
San Diego Wild Animal Park
Some people love it. Others think it over charges and under delivers. Certainly with tickets costing $35 for an adult and $26 for a kid, it is not a cheap day. Personally, I enjoy seeing the animals without cages and size of the place makes it feel less crowded than the San Diego Zoo. To see the animals up close, you probably want to reserve one of the safari tours. From April 6 – April 11, the Park offers special one day camps for kids from kindergarten on up. Also, there are special spring break hours from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92027
(760) 747-8702
www.sandiegozoo.org/wap
Where to stay
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. Reserve in advance as this beachfront property is popular with the family set. They provide tennis clinics for kids in the afternoon as well as golf lessons on request. Or, if that sounds too ambitious, just hang out on the beautiful La Jolla beach. Central to beaches and shops. Rooms start at $259.
2000 Sprindrift Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037-3237
Hotel Parisi
Great small hotel in downtown La Jolla. Quiet, great service, good breakfast, close to everything. Rooms from $225, suites and apartments available from $325.
1111 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-1511
hotelparisi.com
Scripps Inn.
Great views of the beach from most rooms and fireplaces in some. Also an apartment option for families that want a kitchen. Rooms from $185 and suites from $215.
555 Coast Blvd S, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-3391
Where to Eat
The Coffee Cup Cafe.
Popular retro breakfast spot. Great blackberry pancakes, reasonably priced.
1109 Wall St, La Jolla CA
858/454-2819.
Ocean Terrace Bistro. Tremendous views yet more casual than it’s sister spot, George’s at the Cove.
1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-4244
Barbarella Restaurant
Great service, fresh bread, French and Italian inspired comfort food. And yes, they even have mac and cheese.
2171 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-7373
The Cottage
This local breakfast spot draws regulars with outdoor seating and breakfast specials like stuffed french toast with strawberries, eggs benedict and fruit served with creme fraiche.
7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-8409
www.cottagelajolla.com.
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Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged family, La Jolla, La Jolla Activities, La Jolla Hotels, La Jolla Restaurants, San Diego, Spring Break, travel, trip
Spring Break is right around the corner and thanks to our economy, this may not be your year to take an exotic trip. But luckily for us Northern Californians, there are lots of great trips close by which offer both fun and learning for the whole family.
My favorite “local” trips for family spring break include Berkeley, San Francisco, Monterey, and San Diego. Today I’ll start with Berkeley with the rest to follow.
Kites at Cesar Chavez Park
Berkeley holds special meaning for me (I studied there, my husband proposed there) so I always look for opportunities to share this wonderful destination with others. While Berkeley is a bit lacking in the accommodations department (I recommend the Claremont below) it makes up for it with a wealth of indoor and outdoor family activities and high quality, kid-friendly restaurants.
What to Do
Cesar Chavez Park. Besides having stunning view of the Berkeley Marina and Bay, this is the place to fly a kite in the Bay Area. If you are so inspired you can either bring your own kite or buy one right there on site. Highline Kites, run out of a van on the edge of the Marina, sells everything you need for a kite adventure with your kids. He’s only there on weekends. 11 Spinnaker Way (between Breakwater Dr & Marina Blvd) Berkeley, CA 94710
Adventure Playground. Once you’ve wearied of kite flying, you can head over to Adventure Playground for a one of a kind playground experience. Hammers, nails, paint, etc available for check out so your kids can build their own structures. While parents often find the combination of kids, nails, tools and paint a safety hazard, kids seem to universally love it. My recommendation is to keep the activities well supervised. If your kids are more into motion, there is a zipline as well. The activities are targeted to age 7 and above but younger kids can find fun activities as well. On left hand side of University Ave after you cross over the freeway and are headed for the water.
Adventure Playground
East Bay Vivarium. Reptiles, amphibians and bugs oh yeah! I can’t wait to take my son and daughter to this place. With anacondas, scorpions, hissing cockroaches, and blue dart frogs this place is not for the faint of heart. But if your kids are into these critters, this is definitely the place for them. 1857 5th Street #C, Berkeley, CA 94710. 510-841-1400.
U.C. Berkeley Campus. If you’re driving to campus, park by Café Strada at the corner of College and Bancroft. You can grab some coffee, hot chocolate and bagels before trekking into the campus across the street. Let the kids play on the grass in the Faculty Glade by Strawberry Creek, go up in the Campanile to get a fabulous view of the Bay Area, and grab some books at the Student Union. The campus is very bike friendly.
Lawrence Hall of Science. While not at the level of the Academy of Sciences or Exploratorium, this museum is full of engaging exhibits for kids including a planetarium and an animal discovery room. And now through September they have an exhibit called Animal Grossology which you just know is going to be a hit with the kids. Animal Grossology is billed as bringing “to life the gritty, engrossing facts behind—well, behinds, and other animal body parts.”
Centennial Drive, Berkeley, CA 94702. (510) 642-5132
Tilden Park. The carousel, steam train, and petting zoo, are wonderful options for the younger kids. You can take a picnic and spend the better part of day there or just pop up for a couple hours. The train runs from 11:00 – 6:00, the Carousel from 11:00 – 5:00. The Little Farm, open every day from 8:30 to 4:00, has cows, sheep, chickens, geese, rabbits, goats and turkeys. You can bring lettuce or celery to feed the animals. 2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd., Berkeley, CA 94708. (510) 843-2137.
Where to Stay
The Claremont Resort. It is a bit of a mystery to my why Berkeley doesn’t offer better options for accommodations but my top pick for an overnight with the kids is the Claremont Resort. Rooms start at $189 and they offer a kids club in case mom and dad want to check out some of those great East Bay restaurants on their own. 41 Tunnel Rd, 41 Tunnel Rd, Berkeley, CA 94705. (800) 551-7266.
Where to Eat
So many, options so I’ll just offer up a few…
La Note. Offering up French influenced breakfast and brunch options this is considered “the” breakfast place in Berkeley. The wait can be a bit long so either go early (they open at 8:00) or wander down the street to the nearby Pegasus Books to kill some time.
2377 Shattuck Avenue (between Channing Way & Durant Ave)
Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 843-1535
www.lanoterestaurant.com
La Note Patio
Fat Apple’s Restaurant and Bakery. Great breakfast, great coffee, fun neighborhood. This North Berkeley breakfast destination boasts pumpkin pancakes, blueberry waffles, cheese puffs and great coffee. Wander down the block Mr. Mopps Toy Store (1405 MLK Way) while you wait for your table. You can also grab take-out coffee and pastries if you’re in a rush.
1346 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd (between Berryman St & Rose St), Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 526-2260
SeaSalt. I always enjoy dinners here. With Happy Hour dollar oysters, five dollar cocktails and a lovely outdoor patio, I can forgive their lack of a kids menu. My kids usually have the fish and chips or the kitchen can whip up some pasta. Go early to get a table and avoid the date night crowd.
2512 San Pablo Avenue (between Blake St & Dwight Way)
Berkeley, CA 94702, (510) 883-1720
www.seasaltrestaurant.com
Riva Cucina. This restaurant has a real following in the Berkeley area. The slightly out of the way location means you can easily park. While this is a higher-end Italian restaurant, the have a variety of offerings for kids.
800 Heinz St, Berkeley, CA 94701. (510) 841-7482.
www.rivacucina.com
Zachary’s Chicago Pizza. Simply the best pizza in the area. Their deep dish is renowned but so is the line on weekends. Note there are two locations, one on Solano Ave. in Albany, one on College Ave. in Oakland.
1853 Solano Ave (between Colusa Ave & Fresno Ave)
Berkeley, CA 94707. (510) 525-5950.
5801 College Ave (between Birch Ct & Chabot Rd)
Oakland, CA 94618. (510) 655-6385.
www.zacharys.com
Toy Stores:
Berkeley has some great toy stores you may want to check out.
The Ark Toy Store
800 Heinz St
Berkeley, CA 94701
(510) 841-7482
Mr. Mopps
1405 Martin Luther King Junior Way
Berkeley, CA 94709
(510) 525-9633
Rockridge Kids
5511 College Ave
(between Forest St & Lawton Ave)
Oakland, CA 94618
(510) 601-5437
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This fun seaside town offers great beaches, a boardwalk for the kids with a vintage carousal and roller coaster, great hikes and terrific shopping and restaurants. Also, with some new options for accommodations and dining, Santa Cruz offers is a more attractive weekend getaway than ever before.
Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Santa Cruz Boardwalk: With “classic” rides and all the expected boardwalk treats, kids love the Boardwalk. There is a range of rides for both younger and older kids and you can’t miss the 1911 carousel which is a National Historic Landmark. Once you’re done with the rides, you may want to head down to Cowell’s beach.
Santa Cruz Wharf: A great place to catch the sunset after a day of frolicking at the beach. Stop at Dolphin Restaurant for a killer view of the sunset. The chowder and calamari get high marks but the view is the main selling point for this restaurant. The sea lions provide added entertainment and after dinner you can hit Marianne’s Ice Cream for a delicious dessert.
Cowell’s Beach: A broad, flat beach, you can play in the waves, watch dolphins, and listen to sea lions bark in the distance. Locals recommend the walk from Cowell Beach to Natural Bridges State Park but it is three miles each way so perhaps a bit far for families with younger children.
Natural Bridges State Park: While not a great swimming beach, you can see birds, sea lions, sea otters and sometimes, migrating whales. In addition the park boasts one of the largest concentrations of migrating Monarchs in the United States. While January is the best month for Monarch viewing, there is still plenty to see in February. The visitors’ center is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Where to Eat:
Oswald. This long-time favorite in Santa Cruz has recently reopened at a new location.
121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. (831) 423-7427.
La Posta. Their food is known as creative Italian and they get special kudos for their home-made pasta and innovative salads. They have a family-style fixed price dinner on Sunday nights. Considered a good value and great food.
538 Seabright Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062. (831) 457-2782.
Dolphin Restaurant. Conveniently located on the Santa Cruz Wharf, this restaurant provides the perfect place to watch the sunset over the bay. Their food is not extraordinary but their calamari and clam chowder get relatively high marks. Enjoy the outdoor patio in on warm winter days.
Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. (831) 426-5830.
Marianne’s Ice Cream. Many consider this to be the best ice cream in Santa Cruz and some consider it the best in the country. They have an extensive menu of home made ice cream as well as milkshakes and other goodies. If you watched the sunset at the Dolphin Restaurant, this will provide a perfect dessert for a perfect evening.
1020 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. (831) 458-1447.
Zachary’s Restaurant. A popular breakfast and brunch spot, Zachary’s offers a range of options including specialties like oatmeal molasses french toast and curry home fries. Kids can get pancakes shaped as Mickey Mouse.
819 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. (831) 427-0646.
Walnut Avenue Cafe. Another great breakfast option in Santa Cruz, it is considered to offer a bit more ambiance than Zachary’s. You can get a hearty breakfast of French toast with grilled bananas, walnuts and yogurt or granola with fruit and a muffin.
106 Walnut Ave.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060. (831) 457-2307.
Where to Stay:
Dream Inn: A relatively new offering in Santa Cruz, the Dream Inn is right on the beach, very convenient to the Boardwalk and downtown. The have a heated pool and a kids wading pool. Consider one of their suites if you are looking for some extra room for the family. Rooms from $239 and suites from $289.
175 W. Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Pelican Point Inn: Close to Twin Lakes Beach and the harbor, Pelican Point Inn offers Studio and Living Room Suites that are walking distance to the beach and restuarants. While the Inn is “modest” on the outside, inside the suites sport bamboo hardwood floors, kitchenettes with marble counter-tops. Very reasonable at $119 for Studio Suites and $159 for Living Room Suites.
21345 E Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Tripicks Family Rating: *****
Great for families with kids of all ages.
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Posted in Four Star, Uncategorized, Under 2 hour drive, Winter, Winter Break
Tagged boardwalk, family, santa cruz, santa cruz hotels, santa cruz restaurants, travel
February and March are great months to explore the amazing redwood forests we have right here in the Bay Area. The cooler, wet weather truly does create a “rain forest” effect in these ancient groves. And what better way to see these amazing trees than from a vintage steam train?
Roaring Camp. At Roaring Camp, located between Los Gatos and Santa Cruz, you can enjoy a ride on an antique steam train through the redwoods while learning about forest ecology and seasonal changes. The trip is 1.5 hours long with one short (ten minute) stop. The tickets cost $19.50 for adults, $13.50 for kids and free for kids under 3. If you are purchasing online, you need to purchase 72 hours in advance. You can also purchase tickets at Roaring Camp.
Henry Cowell State Park. After the ride head over to Henry Cowell State Park to enjoy a picnic and a hike through the redwoods. Families may want to try the Redwood Grove Trail which is a flat, easy loop around the giant redwoods, accessible by wheelchairs and strollers. The trailhead is near the Nature Center which is open from 10:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
When: The Roaring Camp Rain Forest weekends run January 3 to March 29th. The train departs at 12:30 and on February 14, 15, and 16 there is an additional train at 11:00. You’ll want to arrive at the park at least 45 minutes before the train departs. There have been some comments about trains being overbooked so you’ll want to make sure you get a seat. There are covered cars in case of rain but be sure to dress warmly.
Where to Eat: Depending on the departure time of your train, you may want to bring along a picnic lunch to enjoy before or after the ride. You can also start the day with breakfast in Los Gatos or stop by after the ride for some hot chocolate and cookies.
Aldo’s Deli. A big favorite in Los Gatos for deli food. An easy stop Highway 17, they are known for their fresh bread, great prosciutto and yummy salads.
440 Santa Cruz Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Los Gatos Cafe. A good option for breakfast on your way to Roaring Camp, Los Gatos Cafe has a range of breakfast options and is particularly known for their omelets.
340 N Santa Cruz Ave
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Fleur de Cocoa. A great stop for croissants and coffee on the way or hot chocolate and treats on your way home. This place is considered a top bakery in the Bay Area and I’ve been looking for an excuse to stop by for a while.
39 N Santa Cruz Ave
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Where to Stay: While this is an easy day trip, you could stay over night in Santa Cruz or Los Gatos.
Dream Inn, Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz has been sadly lacking in great accommodations for the family but the newly renovated Dream Inn (a joie de vivre hotel) sounds like a remedy to that situation. It is right on the beach and all rooms have an ocean views. Guest rooms start at $176 and suites start at $269.
175 West Cliff Drive
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Hotel Los Gatos. Also a joie de vivre hotel, this hotel is conveniently located near downtown Los Gatos. I personally would choose to wake up in Santa Cruz by the water but if you are looking for something in Los Gatos, this place may fit the bill. Rates are higher than the Dream Inn starting at $259 for King room and $289 for a Junior Suite.
210 E. Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Tripicks Family Rating. *** Best for kids ages four and older and they do need to be able to sit through the 1.5 hour ride. Winter rides may be chilly so dress warmly. Henry Cowell has hikes for all levels of hikers.
Tripicks QuickTrip Itinerary
QuickTrip Itinerary
Situated between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, Año Nuevo State Natural Reserve is the site of the largest mainland breeding colony in the world for the northern elephant seal. Prime time for viewing the seals is January and February. You can only view the seals by reserving a walk via Reserve America. Weekend dates are scarce but there are still some dates available over winter break and many other weekdays.
Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo
When
Any day in February when you can get a reservation. There are still some winter break and weekend dates left! Supposedly the seals are extra active in the rain so don’t rule out wet weather.
Where to Stay
This is an easy day trip but if you want to stay over night, this area offers some great options.
Half Moon Bay Inn. A new option in downtown Half Moon Bay. Rooms run from $165. Located at 401 Main St., Half Moon Bay; 650/560-9758.
The Beach House Half Moon Bay. This place channels Cape Cod but on the left coast. True to its name, it is right on the beach. Junior Suites from $225.
Costanoa Lodge. Ten miles south of Pescadero, Costanoa offers a variety of room options including campsites from $50, tent bungalows from $115, cabins from $185, rooms from $210; 650/879-1100. Weeknight rooms are $149 in February
Where to Eat
Barbara’s Fish Trap. Great seafood that you can eat in the restaurant or take out to the beach. Cash only! 281 Capistrano Rd., Princeton by the sea, CA 94018; (650) 728-7049.
Norm’s Market. They get rave reviews for their artichoke garlic bread. 287 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060; (650) 879-0147
Duarte’s Tavern. The food here is more “comfort” than “gourmet” but it has lots of local color and uses local ingredients. The artichoke soup and pies get very high marks. 202 Stage Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
Tripicks Family Rating***. This adventure is probably better for older kids. The walk is three miles long, may involve inclement weather and you cannot take strollers or umbrellas.
Posted in Three Star, Under 1 hour drive, Winter, Winter Break
Tagged ano nuevo, family, half moon bay, half moon bay hotels, half moon bay restaurants, travel
Monarch Migration
Head down to Pacific Grove to see the largest collection of Monarch butterflies in the United States. February is a great time to view the Monarchs as they winter in Pacific Grove. After a restful winter they start to wake up in January and February to look for a mate. Plan your trip on a warm day in February, as the Monarchs aren’t active unless the temperature is over 56 degrees.
Monarchs in Pacific Grove
When: a warm day in the first two weeks of February. The Monarch Sanctuary recommends you come when there are docents available which is from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm each day.
Where: The Monarch Sanctuary in Pacific Grove.
Where to Stay:
Asilomar Conference Center . Unbeatable location on a hundred forested acres across from some of the most beautiful coastline in the country. Although it does get dinged for being run down, fans recommend the historic rooms or rooms on the west side of Asilomar Drive. Also be sure to request a room with a fireplace. They offer marshmallow roasting for the kids (and grown ups) as well as a pool/ping pong room.
The Intercontinental Clement Monterey. A swank new hotel on Cannery Row offering some special rates making more affordable. They offer onsite childcare with organized activities in case you want to head out for a “grown up” dinner.
Where to Eat
PassionFish, great food, a terrific wine list and very accomodating to families. Sustainable food philosophy.
Fifi’s Bistro Café, a French restaurant in Pacific Grove that is supposed to be the place for french onion soup in the area. And who can argue with French Onion soup after a day of beach and butterfly viewing?
C Restaurant at The Clement Monterey Hotel gets very good marks for food. I don’t know how child-friendly they are so you may want to check that in advance.
First Awakenings. If you want to head down to the Monterey early and have breakfast before butterfly viewing, try First Awakenings. They have healthy options like wheat germ pancakes but get there early as they often have a line.
Tripicks Family Rating: *****. This is a winner for kids. You can bring strollers in the sanctuary and when you’re done viewing butterflies you have great options like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Pacific Grove beaches.
Tripicks QuickTrip Itinerary
Posted in Four Star, Holidays, Under 2 hour drive, Winter, Winter Break
Tagged butterflies, family, monarchs, monterey, monterey hotels, monterey restaurants, pacific grove, travel
With February right around the corner, we want to highlight three great Bay Area activities you may want to have on your calendar. Today we’ll kick it off with the San Francisco Chinese New Years Parade.
Chinese New Years Parade
Considered the best Chinese New Years parade in the country, you may want to plan early to make sure you are making the most of this event. Highlights include floats, the 201 foot long Golden Dragon, and local performance groups. You can get more details at the official site.
When: Saturday, February 7 from 5:30 – 8:00.
Where to watch:
Below is the parade route.
Where to Stay. While this is an easy day trip for folks in the Bay Area, you may want to stay over night and make a weekend of it.
Palace Hotel. On the parade route, several folks have recommended the Market Street facing rooms for parade viewing. Rates start under $300.
Westin St. Francis. On the parade route, they do have rooms available with a Union Square view although it sounded like they would be up pretty high (floors 15 and above). The rates start at $290.
Where to Eat. Fully immerse yourself in the occasion and eat at one of San Francisco’s top notch Dim Sum restaurants in the area.
Yank Sing. 49 Stevenson St (at Ecker Pl), San Francisco, CA 94105. (415) 541-4949.
City View Restaurant. 662 Commercial St (between Kearny St & Montgomery St). San Francisco, CA 94111. (415) 398-2838.
Hang Ah Tea Room. 1 Pagoda Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108.
Tripick Family Rating. **** Kids generally love it but it does involve some crowds, loud noise (think firecracker noises), potential inclement weather, and it runs until 8:00 at night.
Tripicks QuickTrip Itinerary
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