California

The Perfect Palm Springs Vacation – The 11 Destinations That Offer Fun for the Whole Family

Palm Springs offers more than just hot springs, golf, and vintage boutiques. It’s guaranteed fun for the whole family if you plan ahead and know the right spots.

Planning a vacation with kids is usually harder because you have to find activities that will keep everyone entertained. But not in Palm Springs. That’s because there’s no shortage when it comes to a variety of activities for everyone.

There are many unique things to do in Palm Springs that you and your kids will find enjoyable.

1. Go to the Joshua Tree National Park

What sounds fun for the whole family? How about seeing a national park with natural scenery that looks out of this world? It’s one of the best things to do in Palm Springs with kids, especially if the whole family enjoys outdoor activities.

It’s great for photo ops and hiking, or even just for a drive. In fact, you might want to consider driving with your AC on during the summer as it gets very hot.

2. Have Fun at the Knott’s Soak City Park

This waterpark has fun activities for the whole family and is a great spot if you want to keep cool in the summer. It has over 20 water attractions, including a massive wave pool. Be sure to check out the lazy river, too.

You can also enjoy the dining options that are always a kid-favorite. But if you want to unwind after a long and eventful day, the Yacht Club has a more adult-friendly poolside section.

3. Tour the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Palm Springs Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

If your kids like animals, a Palm Springs vacation is the ideal choice for you.

One of the coolest things to do with kids here is visiting the Palm Desert Zoo. It has American and African-native animals, as well as many gardens with desert plans.

Most of the trails are nature trails that showcase undisturbed desert land. The preserve looks amazing and the promoted interaction with some of the animals will certainly keep the kids entertained.

4. Engage in Fun Activities

Palm Springs Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert

Where can you take your overly energetic kids? To the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert. It’s a place where entertainment and educational activities go hand-in-hand. While this is more suitable for younger crowds, teenagers may also find some cool things to do.

For starters, there’s an archaeological dig, animation creation, physical activities, exploration, and much more. They’re great for family bonding and doing hands-on projects.

It’s a top tourist destination, especially for those with an artistic side.

5. Tour the Palm Springs Air Museum

Maybe your kids aren’t history buffs yet, but they probably like anything that flies. Then, you’ll need to see the Air Museum, as it features many Pearl Harbor fighters and other Second World War military planes and helicopters.

The collection is massive and you can spend hours touring the museum. There’s also an exhibit of modern jets and kids will get to see how military aircraft progressed over the years.

6. Play Sports at the Ruth Hardy Park

This park has, admittedly, not much to offer in terms of being unique. It simply does a fantastic job of making the desert feel alive, especially for kids.

If you’re traveling as an energetic bunch and want to simply let loose, the sports facilities in the park are top-notch. You also have access to kids’ playgrounds and a field for playing catch.

It sits on 22 acres and you can spend as much time as you want in the park until 10:00 pm.

7. A Modern Attraction for Modern Kids

When talking about things to do in Palm Springs, it’s a must to visit the Palm Springs Skate Park. The 30,000sq.ft park features every obstacle and type of course your kids can think of. It makes it one of the coolest tourist spots around.

Even better, it has a concrete bowl that resembles the old school swimming pool training grounds of legendary skaters. It’s a nice destination for anyone looking for an adrenaline rush.

8. Visit a Kitschy Jurassic Park

No, there are no real dinosaurs in Palm Springs. But there are large fake dinos that young kids might enjoy at Cabazon Dinosaurs, making it a nice spot for families.

It’s not a museum by any standards. But it does host some cool sculptures and activities, such as fossil panning, but with a twist that kids will enjoy. There’s even a mechanical Brontosaurus ride, as well as other theme-park style attractions.

Don’t forget to pick up something from the gift shop to commemorate your visit.

9. Relax in the Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Palm Springs Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Apart from hosting many themed events, this destination is great for simply hanging out with the whole family. And you don’t have to take the tour just to relax on the green.

There are many paths and trails that you can walk on even without a guide, as well as lots of colorful desert plant species to see. It’s a great place for organizing family vacation photo ops.

10. Embark on Desert Adventures

Outdoor enthusiasts will definitely get more out of a Palm Springs vacation.

For starters, you can take a jeep desert tour and check out the San Andreas Fault. There are many canyons to see, including the Painted Canyons and the Indian Canyons.

And instead of doing it alone, check out one of the local experiences on the Desert Adventures private preserve. It’s easier to get to all the cool nature spots without wasting time or endangering anyone.

11. See Palm Springs from Above

While your kids can’t fly in any of the planes on display at the Air Museum, there is a way to see Palm Springs from up above. Take the Aerial Tramway and soar 2.5 miles in just 10 minutes. The top of the tram line is 8,516ft above sea level, so you know you’re in for a visual treat.

Apart from the exciting ride to the top and the awesome views, you’ll also get to experience lower temperatures. Not a bad deal at all, and it’s probably even cooler to do this during the winter. Snowball fight, anyone?

Palm Springs Offers Fun for All Ages

There’s a lot you can do in Palm Springs – from hiking to checking out fake Indian villages and dinosaurs. And it covers different seasons, as there are plenty of water parks for you to cool off in the summer and tons of winter activities, too.

Adults can take in the gorgeous scenery or feel young again by taking part in some cool activities with their young ones. So, plan to visit as many attractions as you can with your family.

Related Topics:custom activities adventure

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Spend 4 Days In This Laid Back SoCal Surf Town For Under $100

Think you can’t afford a dreamy California beach vacation? Think again. Just north of San Diego lies Oceanside, a chill surf town with uncrowded beaches, vintage coastal vibes, and—get this—a way to spend four whole days here for less than $100.

Yes, really.

Thanks to a jaw-dropping travel offer from Booksi, you can enjoy 4 days and 3 nights in Oceanside for just $89 total. Here’s how to make the most of this SoCal hidden gem without blowing your budget.

🌊 Day 1: Hit the Beach

Oceanside’s beaches are clean, relaxed, and never too crowded. Start your trip by stretching out in the sun, strolling the iconic Oceanside Pier (one of the longest on the West Coast), or watching local surfers do their thing. Cost? Free.

🏄‍♂️ Day 2: Ride the Waves

Rent a surfboard or bodyboard for around $25 and hit the beginner-friendly waves. Not into surfing? Grab a coffee and walk The Strand for amazing coastal views. Finish the day with a cheap-but-delicious fish taco from a local food truck.

🎨 Day 3: Culture + Local Flavor

Explore Oceanside’s growing art scene at the Oceanside Museum of Art (low admission), then swing by the Thursday night Sunset Market for free live music and window shopping. You’ll find food stalls, handmade crafts, and a seriously cool community vibe.

🚴 Day 4: Get Active

Rent a bike and cruise the coast, explore the harbor, or visit Mission San Luis Rey—the largest Spanish mission in California. It’s a budget-friendly way to soak in the town’s history and natural beauty.

💵 The Math That’ll Blow Your Mind

· 3-Night Stay: $89 via Bo oksi’s exclusive offer

· Beach days: Free

· Activities + food: ~$10–$30/day depending on your style

Total? Easily under $100 for your stay. 🙌

🏖️ Final Word

Oceanside is the kind of place that delivers all the SoCal magic—without the crowds or the price tag. With Booksi’s unbeatable $89 offer, you’re just one click away from the beach town getaway you didn’t know you could afford.

👉 Book Your Oceanside Escape Now 👈

Oceanside

Why Oceanside Is The Coolest Beach Town In California You’ve Never Heard Of

Oceanside: The Coolest Beach Town in California You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should!)

Forget the crowded boardwalks and sky-high prices of California’s more famous beach towns. There’s a true gem sparkling on the Southern California coast, quietly cultivating a vibrant, authentic, and undeniably cool vibe: Oceanside. If it’s not on your radar yet, prepare to be wonderfully surprised.

For years, Oceanside might have been considered merely a pit stop on the way to San Diego. But those days are long gone. This dynamic city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a destination that perfectly blends classic California surf culture with a burgeoning arts scene, an exciting culinary landscape, and a commitment to sustainable living.

So, what makes Oceanside the coolest beach town you’ve been missing out on? Let’s dive in!

More Than Just Miles of Sand (Though We Have Plenty!)

Oceanside Pier — Aeroviews.co. (2025). Available at: https://aeroviews.co [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Yes, Oceanside boasts 3.5 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a wave. But it’s the iconic Oceanside Pier that truly sets the scene. Stretching nearly 2,000 feet into the Pacific, it’s one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offering breathtaking views, fantastic fishing (no license required!), and a quintessential California stroll. You’ll see surfers carving lines below and may even spot dolphins or seals playing in the waves.

Just north of the pier, the Oceanside Harbor is a charming hub for all things maritime. Think colorful boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, or paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque spot to soak in the coastal ambiance.

A Surfer’s Paradise with a Rich History

Oceanside’s roots are deeply entwined with surf culture, and it’s celebrated at the fantastic California Surf Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sport’s history, marvel at vintage boards (including an 11-foot redwood from the 1800s!), and learn about legendary surfers. Even Bethany Hamilton’s shark-bitten board is on display, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the surf community.

Beyond surfing, Oceanside embraces its past with historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Rey and the beautifully restored “Top Gun” House (now serving up nostalgic pies!). You’ll find a blend of old and new, creating a unique character you won’t find just anywhere.

A Culinary Scene That Will Surprise and Delight

Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Prepare your taste buds, because Oceanside’s food scene is booming! What was once a sleepy surf town is now a culinary hotspot, with new and exciting restaurants popping up regularly. From European bistros to East Coast-inspired delis, and a plethora of craft breweries and wine-tasting rooms, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on exploring Artist Alley, a vibrant space that hosts a First Friday Art Walk with pop-up galleries and artisan goods, often with delicious food trucks on hand.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Adventures Await

Biking — Nitrocdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://cdn-ilbhmcd.nitrocdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Oceanside offers a surprising array of activities that go beyond the typical beach day:

Skydiving with Ocean Views: For the ultimate thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or, for the truly adventurous, jump out of a plane with GoJump Oceanside for unparalleled views of the coastline.
Goat Hill Park: This isn’t your average golf course. It’s a refreshingly inclusive and unique spot with ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere (no dress code, rock music!), and even a commitment to local beekeeping!
Whale Watching: Year-round excursions from the Harbor offer incredible opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Biking the Strand: A pedestrian-friendly path runs parallel to the ocean, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.
Sunset Market: On Thursday evenings, Pier View Way transforms into a lively outdoor market with food, music, and local crafts – an experience not to be missed.

Why Oceanside is Your Next California Escape

Oceanside isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a community with a strong sense of identity, a laid-back charm, and a dedication to growth that benefits both visitors and locals. It’s less crowded than its Southern California neighbors, offering a more authentic and relaxed beach town experience. And with visitor spending consistently growing (reaching $568 million in 2022!), it’s clear that more and more people are discovering its magic.

So, if you’re looking for a California beach getaway that’s off the beaten path, rich in culture, brimming with delicious food, and offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, then Oceanside is calling your name. It’s the coolest beach town in California you’ve never heard of, and it’s time to change that.

Oceanside

Oceanside’s Farm-to-Table Dining: A Foodie’s Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of devouring a just-plucked salad while staring at the Pacific, then buckle up, buttercup—Oceanside farm-to-table dining is calling your name.

Tucked between sun-soaked beaches and rolling inland hills, this Southern California gem has quietly grown into a haven for food lovers who like their meals local, their chefs bold, and their plates—well, Instagram-ready.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who really really likes brunch, Oceanside farm-to-table dining offers more than sea views. We’re talking heirloom tomatoes kissed by morning fog, craft cocktails that double as magic tricks, and chefs who are basically artists with aprons. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting fed, farm-fresh style.

What Is Oceanside Farm-to-Table Dining, Really?

Let’s clear the table for a sec. Farm-to-table isn’t just some trendy buzzword chefs slap on menus to sound eco-chic. At its core, it means sourcing ingredients locally—often directly from farms—and serving them up with minimal processing and maximum flavor. In Oceanside, this goes beyond just taste. It’s a philosophy. A lifestyle. Dare we say… a movement?

And the best part? You’re supporting local growers, reducing your carbon footprint, and probably tasting the juiciest strawberry of your life. Win-win-win.

Best Oceanside Farm-to-Table Restaurants You Need to Try

1. The Plot

Facade of The Plot restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

This zero-waste, plant-based spot is straight-up revolutionary. Their ingredients come from their own nearby farm, and the dishes? Think beet poke, jackfruit tacos, and other delicious curveballs that even die-hard carnivores can’t resist. Oh, and they compost everything. If guilt-free indulgence had a home address, this would be it.

2. Dija Mara

A group of people eating at Dija Mara restaurant in Oceanside CA. — Visitoceanside.org. (2025). Available at: https://visitoceanside.org/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Farm-to-table meets Southeast Asian street food in a vibe-heavy spot that’s as edgy as it is flavorful. The grilled octopus is legendary, and if you skip the charred broccolini, you’re doing it wrong. The chef draws heavily from local produce, giving traditional Balinese flavors a SoCal twist. It’s bold, it’s funky, and it absolutely slaps.

3. Piper at The Seabird Resort

Menu at Piper restaurant in Oceanside, CA. — Theseabirdresort.com. (2025). Available at: https://theseabirdresort.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Piper doesn’t mess around. Set inside a dreamy oceanside resort, this airy spot serves up locally-sourced everything—from the eggs in your shakshuka to the basil in your spritz. It’s coastal chic meets farmers market brunch, with a pastry chef who deserves a standing ovation. Try the house-made granola, and prepare to get hooked.

4. Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub

Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub. Oceanside farm-to-table dining. — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2022). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 27 Jun. 2025].

Don’t let the name throw you. This place is an Oceanside staple, known for its punk-rock approach to sushi and unwavering dedication to sustainability. Chef Davin Waite works with local fishermen and farms to craft rolls that are inventive, wild, and weirdly poetic. Like a sea urchin haiku with a wasabi kick.

Markets & Makers: Take the Experience Home

Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market. Oceanside farm-to-table dining.

Don’t just eat it—live it. Oceanside’s Downtown Farmers Market is held every Thursday and is your golden ticket to the freshest produce, local honey, and homemade everything. Chat up the farmers. Sample the stone fruit. Grab some sourdough that might change your life. It’s laid-back, lively, and just the right amount of chaotic.

While you’re at it, check out Cyclops Farms, a certified organic urban farm that supplies many of Oceanside’s restaurants. They host events, dinners, and even let you pick your own produce. Warning: you might leave with a crate of kale and a deep desire to start gardening.

Final Bites: Why Oceanside’s Food Scene Hits Different

Let’s be honest—farm-to-table is often tossed around in cities that feel more like curated museum exhibits than real, lived-in communities. But Oceanside? It’s gritty, it’s growing, and it’s got soul. The chefs here aren’t following trends; they’re setting them. The food isn’t pretentious; it’s passionate. And every bite tells a story that started just down the road.

So, next time you find yourself in this coastal corner of California, come hungry—and maybe wear pants with an elastic waistband. You’re gonna need it.

Planning Your Visit?
Make sure to check restaurant hours, reserve ahead if you can, and leave room in your suitcase for jam jars and handmade pasta. This isn’t just a dining experience—it’s a full-on flavor adventure.

Dig in.