As the weather warms up, its the perfect chance to get outside and explore – even if the kids would rather stay glued to their screens. So how do you get them enthusiastic about a family hike? You take them somewhere stunning enough they’ll wonder why it took so long to get out of the house. These four family-friendly hikes in Southern California are perfect for all ages and skill levels, and will create lasting memories.
- San Clemente Coastal Trail
Marco W/TripAdvisor Is there any better family hike than a trip to the beach? This trail is only minutes from the hub of the city. San Clemente, CA, USA
The trail has a gorgeous overlook of the city, and even has a view of the famous Amtrak Pacific Surfliner route.
MsNats/TripAdvisor
Best of all, there are several mini-boardwalks along the way - perfect to stop and have a snack.
Mommy447/TripAdvisor
- Mission Trails Regional Park
Management/TripAdvisor Just outside of San Diego is one of Southern California’s most beautiful parks. Mission Trails Regional Park, 1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119, USA
The park is filled with dozens of trails for different skill levels, and most lead to a truly amazing view.
SanDiegoFito/TripAdvisor
Pack a picnic lunch and prepare for an amazing finish to the day as you overlook the city.
dsrtgrl/TripAdvisor
- Alta Vista Botanical Gardens
Bryan M/TripAdvisor For something completely different, head to this botanical garden filled with whimsical sculptures. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista, CA 92084, USA
There are some hidden enclaves perfect for taking a break in the middle of a hot day.
Bryan M/TripAdvisor
Kids will love the various sculptures of dinosaurs and whimsical beings hidden amid the many winding trails.
Matthew H/TripAdvisor
- Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
JoyNCH/TripAdvisor For a truly one-of-a-kind adventure that happens to be one of the best family-friendly hikes in Southern California, head to Antelope Valley as the flowers are blooming. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve, 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, USA
You’ll encounter a sprawling field of poppies as far as the eye can see.
Management/TripAdvisor
Along the way, you might find some unique art installations that make for perfect photo ops with a stunning backdrop.
Pammy B/TripAdvisor
Are you looking to break out the family hiking boots this spring and summer? Let us know if you’ve visited any of these destinations, or if you have favorite family hiking spots of your own. Make sure to visit the Alta Vista Botanical Garden’s website before you go to see the latest events they’re hosting.
Marco W/TripAdvisor
Is there any better family hike than a trip to the beach? This trail is only minutes from the hub of the city.
San Clemente, CA, USA
MsNats/TripAdvisor
Mommy447/TripAdvisor
Management/TripAdvisor
Just outside of San Diego is one of Southern California’s most beautiful parks.
Mission Trails Regional Park, 1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119, USA
SanDiegoFito/TripAdvisor
dsrtgrl/TripAdvisor
Bryan M/TripAdvisor
For something completely different, head to this botanical garden filled with whimsical sculptures.
Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista, CA 92084, USA
Matthew H/TripAdvisor
JoyNCH/TripAdvisor
For a truly one-of-a-kind adventure that happens to be one of the best family-friendly hikes in Southern California, head to Antelope Valley as the flowers are blooming.
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve, 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, USA
Pammy B/TripAdvisor
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