10 Affordable Family Vacations In California

Oxnard is a pristine beach town located 28 miles north of Malibu. It is surprisingly affordable compared to other towns situated along the stretch of the Pacific coast. 

You can explore the sandy beaches, bike, and jog around palm trees and trails. Historical landmarks such as Heritage Square and The Woolworth Building will not disappoint.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do In Oxnard

• Walk around Channel Islands Harbor. Other activities include hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, and fun-filled water activities for the family.
• Have a picnic or just relax and chill at Silver Strand Beach and Oxnard Beach Park. Mandalay Beach is an amazing place to fly kites.
• The Murphy Auto Museum, Channel Islands Maritime Museum, Mullin Automotive Museum, and Carnegie Art Museum are also worth a visit.
• Visit some local farmers’ markets. Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market is to see local culture, and Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Markets is incredible for seaside shopping.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Hilton Garden Inn Oxnard/Camarillo, Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor, and Homewood Suites by Hilton Oxnard/Camarillo are some mid-range and budget hotels to stay at.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park is located on the Sacramento River. This impressive piece of architectural engineering has a garden, zoo, and gathering place where people can learn more about plants, wildlife, Native Americans, and history.

It has a museum, Sundial bridge, arboretum and botanical gardens, forestry, and wildlife center, all within its 300 acres of estate. The wildlife here is mostly native to Northern California and is non-releasable as they can no longer survive in the wild.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do

• Visit the Turtle Bay Exploration Park Museum to see the exhibition galleries, and interactive exhibits, such as the underwater fish viewing area. 
• Meet 64 different species of animals, including Red Fox, Raccoon, Grey Fox, North American Porcupine, American Badger, Bobcat, Laughing Kookaburra, Turkey Vulture, and Ornate Box Turtle.
• The Sundial Bridge links the south and north side of the park, and it is actually a working sundial. It almost feels as if you are floating as you walk over the Sacramento River.
• Paul Bunyan’s Forest Camp lets you discover what it was like to be an early logger in the area. It also features a traditional Native American bark house.
• Turtle Bay also hosts seasonal animal shows.
• Explore the various kinds of flowers, shrubs, ornamental grasses, and a butterfly garden. You can also purchase some of the plants.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Travelodge by Wyndham Redding CA, Thunderbird Lodge, Oxford Suites Redding, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Redding are some great budget hotels to stay near Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Ventura is a laid-back coastal city just north of Los Angeles. This place is perfect for anyone that wants to get out of the hustle and bustle of city town.

There are many natural beauties, free activities, landmarks, and affordable lodging in this inexpensive beach town.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do

• Take a boat trip to the Channel Islands National Park. There is no entrance fee, and you can go camping and day hiking here. Also, visit The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center here.
• San Buenaventura State Beach, Marina Park, Surfers Point Park, and Emma Wood State Beach are family-friendly and amazing places to hang out. Searching for sea glass and bird watching can be a fun activity to keep the family occupied for a while.
• Ventura Pier and Promenade is a beach and beachside path to hang out or even walk, run, bike, and get some exercise.
• Take this 30-mile Ventura to Ojai paved bike path for some beautiful scenery.  
• Mission San Buenaventura is a well-maintained and beautiful chapel to see. Ventura City Hall and Ventura Harbor Village are also must-visits.
• Ventura Botanical Gardens is free to visit with easy and well-maintained hiking trails.
• Ventura County Museum of History & Art and The San Buenaventura Mission offer you a piece of history.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Comfort Inn & Suites Ventura Beach, Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection, and Clocktower Inn Ventura are some budget-friendly places to stay while visiting Ventura.

Joshua Tree National Park is just 40 miles east of Palm Springs. A calm environment full of adventures, this southeastern park has plenty of things to offer.

National parks are one of the most affordable destinations for family vacations. The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and 15 per person on foot or bike. The annual park pass is just $55.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do

• Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding are some of the fun activities here. 
• This park is a paradise for anyone who loves climbing. There are many natural gaps, about 8000 climbing routes, and 2000 boulder problems here, making it easy for beginners and experts. 
• Split Rock and Skull Rock are amazing for climbing.
• There are plenty of places to hike here, including Hidden Valley, Ryan Mountain, Barker Dam Trail, Arch Rock Nature Trail, Indian Cove Natural Trail, Palms Canyon Trail, Cap Rock Trail, and Cottonwood Spring.
• Hikers should go to the highest point, Key View, which offers a stunning view of Palm Springs and Coachella.
• Visit the Cholla Cactus Garden, which has some man-sized cacti growing in profusion.
• Keys Ranch is one of the historical sites to learn about the lifestyle and history of the Keys family.
• You could even spot some wildlife animals here, including desert tortoises, kangaroo rats, and bighorn sheep.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

You could lodge at one of the nine campgrounds at the bark. It is an affordable option, and you could spend more time outdoors. Backcountry camping is also an option here with some rules.

SureStay Plus By Best Western Twentynine Palms Joshua Tree and High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park are some affordable places nearby.

Dana Point is a Southern California city best known for beach vacations and surfing. It is situated at the halfway point between Los Angeles and San Diego.

Water sports lovers and families wanting an affordable California beach vacation will love this place. 

Affordable Or Free Things To Do In Dana Point

• Salt Creek Beach is a relaxing and less crowded beach. It has an incredible view of the green park and surf as well.
• Dana Point Harbor, which is also known as the ‘Whale Capital of the World,’ is a must for whale watching excursions and fishing. You can spot some herons and sea lions too.
• Doheny State Beach provides a peaceful outdoor experience and is located adjacent to a campsite. Baby Beach and Dana Strands Beach are also popular among families.
• Ocean Institute conducts various nature-focused educational programs that families love. 
• Visit Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center, which is about 60 acres and is home to 16 rare plants and two federally listed species.
• Bluff Top Trail, Doris Walker Overlook, and Pines Park are some popular spots to hang out.
• If you’re feeling a little adventurous, Dana Point Parasail will have you experience the most memorable parasailing experience along the Pacific Ocean coastline.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel and Best Western Plus Casablanca Inn are some budget-friendly places to stay here.

Solvang is a beautiful town in Santa Ynez Valley filled with authentic Danish cuisine and architecture. It is only 33 miles away from Santa Barbara.

This town should be on your bucket list because of its architecture and heritage. It feels like your very own affordable trip to Europe. It is free to walk through the town.

Solvang offers various inexpensive activities like family fun centers, parks, farms & ranches, and specialty museums.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do In Solvang 

• Old Mission Santa Ines is like an oasis of tranquility. It is a must-visit as it is one of the best-preserved Spanish mission complexes in the country.
• Visit Elverhoj Museum of History & Art, as it has been described as a simply rare treasure hidden in a gem of a town.
• Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum, Hans Christian Andersen Museum, and Wilding Museum of Art and Nature will not disappoint.
• You could watch some amazing performances at the Solvang Festival Theater.
• Hand Christian Andersen Park, Sunny Fields Park, Nojoqui Falls Park, and Apple Lane Solvang are for nature lovers.
• Swedish Candy Factory serves delicious candies and is a perfect place to take the kids.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Hotel Corque, King Frederik Inn, Pea Soup Andersen’s Inn, and Vinland Hotel and Lounge are some family-friendly hotels that will help you stay under budget.

Big Sur is what nature and art together would look like. It is definitely one of the world’s most indelible stretches of coastline.

Driving through Big Sur, you will see the beautiful ocean, sweeping panoramas, and waves. You will experience the unforgettable beautiful beaches, waterfalls, springs, hiking trails, and wildlife here.

The remarkable cliffside offers unbelievable Pacific Ocean views, going as far as the eyes can see.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do

• Bixby Bridge is a historic bridge and a popular site for photographers. 
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has some great trails, waterfalls, and beautiful scenery.
• Walk along the giant redwood trees, waterfalls, and wildflowers, for the breathtaking ocean view at the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
• Point Sur State Historic Park, Ragged Point, Partington Cave, Andrew Molera State Park, Limekiln State Park, and Salmon Creek Falls Trail are some hiking trails and natural beauties you should visit.
• New Camaldoli Hermitage, Big Sur Station, and Henry Miller Memorial Library will not disappoint.
• You could chill and spend the whole day at Pfeiffer beach.
• Spot the migrating whales and sea otters floating among the kelp while driving through the coastline.
• McWay Falls is a captivating 80 feet tall waterfall that flows into the Pacific Ocean.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Booking in advance will help you stay within budget here. Carmel Resort Inn and Big Sur Lodge are some great options when on a budget.

You can also find cabins, and camping is also an option. There are many campgrounds here, including Fernwood Resort, Riverside Campground, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Big Sur Campground.

Old Town in San Diego is a hub for historical sites and a colorful atmosphere. This place is considered the birthplace of California.

The major attraction here includes the Mexican heritage, vibrant restaurants, and shops. Anyone can enter this place and walk inside many of the historic buildings, mostly all for free and located within walking distance of each other.

Located in the heart of San Diego, one can spend a day or even several exploring. 

Affordable Or Free Things To Do

• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park has free entrance. The restored buildings have museums, shops, and restaurants. It is a mix of history, entertainment, and shopping.
• There are many small museums in the Old Town State Historic Park that you can visit. They will make you feel like having stepped back in time with the collection of stories and historical artifacts.
• Visit La Casa de Machado y Stewart to see an extensive period garden.
• You can shop for some unique art, clothes, Mexican handicrafts, homemade taffy, gemstones, and souvenirs at Old Town Market and Bazaar del Mundo.
• Seeley Stables, La Casa de Estudillo, Wells Fargo Museum, San Diego Courthouse, and San Diego Union Building are also must-visits.
• Make your own candles at Toby’s Candle and Soap Shop.
• Visit Whaley House Museum, as it is one of the two officially designated haunted houses in California. 
• You can see live mariachi performers every day in Old Town. They also have seasonal and special event shows throughout the year.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town, Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area, and Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Old Town are some hotels to stay at while traveling to Old Town.

Carlsbad is a coastal city with beautiful beaches and a booming restaurant scene. This city has something for everyone with its wide variety of options.

Home to LEGOLAND California Resort, this city also has some unforgettable attractions. It has many museums that celebrate and preserve history. The city also has some world-class golf courses.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do

• South Carlsbad State Beach is the spot for swimming, diving, surfing, picnicking, and fishing. It also has a cliffside campground.
• North Ponto Beach, Moonlight State Beach, and Tamarack State Beach are also popular spots for families to hand out and picnic.
• Visit Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, home to birds of paradise, peacocks, and many more.
• Paddleboard, go fishing, jet skiing, or kayaking at the Agua Hedionda Lagoon.
• Alga Norte Community Park and Stagecoach Park are kids’ favorites, as you can play various different sports here.
• Pick your own strawberries at the farm-run Carlsbad Strawberry Company.
• The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is home to beautiful flowers and natural beauty.
• Carlsbad Village Farmers’ Market and State Street Farmers Market offer various fresh produce, delicious food from local Carlsbad, and handmade crafts.
• The Museum of Making Music contains multiple instruments, exhibitions, and live events. This museum is the go-to place to learn all about music-making.
• Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum has miniature models of buildings, vehicles, and engines that are made from wood and metal. It is preserving wood and metal craft.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Some excellent yet affordable hotels and resorts in Carlsbad include Ocean Palms Beach Resort, Carlsbad Seapointe Resort, West Inn & Suites Carlsbad, and Days Inn by Wyndham Carlsbad.

Big Bear Lake is a beautiful small city located in Southern California. It is less than two hours drive from Los Angeles.

This city is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding during the winter and ziplining, fishing, and mountain biking during the summer. 

Considered one of the cheapest vacation spots in California, you can visit it during the spring and fall for amazing deals on accommodations.

Affordable Or Free Things To Do In Big Bear

• Big Bear Lake itself is a fun place for water activities. You can rent a kayak, ride boats, or go fishing in the lake.
• Hiking or riding a bike in the San Bernardino Mountains offers many scenic views and a chance to be with nature.
• Boulder Bay Park is a well-maintained peaceful small park where you can relax.
• Castle Rock trail is also popular among hikers, as you can see some stunning panoramic sights from the top. Alpine Pedal Path and Cougar Crest Trail are also excellent for hiking.
• Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge is a rehabilitation facility for injured, imprinted, and orphaned wild animals. The place has native animals such as arctic foxes, bald eagles, and black bears. It is a well-kept sanctuary your family should visit.
• Big Bear Discovery Center has educational exhibits and hands-on activities related to wildlife and the natural environment.
• Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve are perfect for walking around, seeing some birds, and being with nature.
• Big Bear Visitor Center and Big Bear Historial Museum are also worth a visit.

Budget-Friendly Places To Stay

Big Bear Frontier offers some amazing deals on hotel rooms and cabins. Golden Bear Cottages and Country Club Chalet are some cabin rentals here.