California with kids
By Mimi Slawoff
Lake Tahoe, one of California’s best lakes, is a great spot to spend the rest of the summer with the kids. (Flickr: Trevor Bexon)
With a plug on California’s drought, lakes are full and brimming with recreational activities. The Golden State has over 3,000 named natural lakes and reservoirs, each with distinctive features. And most of them are well worth spending a day or a weekend getaway with the kids. Many are ideal for water sports, others for fishing, swimming, or just relaxing. Kayaking and tubing are also among the many summer activities for kids.
California’s best lakes within city limits make them easy day trips. Others are nestled in the wilderness and invite camping under the stars. From daylong fun on the water to a woodsy getaway, a lake vacation offers families lots of outdoor fun.
(MORE: Best Islands in Southern California for Families with Kids)
Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino National Forest
High up in the forest, the seven-mile long lake sparkles like a jewel. Scenic views, water sports, beach access, and lodging options make Big Bear one of California’s best lakes. Summer activities for kids include kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, boating, and fishing. For thrill-seeking families, there’s parasailing and jet skiing. An assortment of campgrounds, cabins and condos fit any budget. For creature comforts, consider The Lodge at Big Bear Lake, a Holiday Inn Resort.
Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge at Big Bear Lake, an IHG Hotel (Photo: booking.com)
To make your splashing with your loved ones an even more exciting experience at Big Bear Lake, the Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge is a perfect place to choose. Alpine Slide at Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge at Big Bear Lake is just 5 minute drive from this California resort. Northwoods Resort and Conference Center is located 6.4 kilometers away from Holiday Inn Resort. It’s 136.8 kilometers from Palm Springs International Airport.
Entertainment available: The Big Bear Lake Northwoods Resort and Conference Center has a sauna and a steam room. There is a gift shop and a gym accessible. There are gift shops, concierge services, gaming rooms, and laundries available.
Convenient amenities: At the Big Bear Lake Northwoods Resort and Conference Center, a workstation and coffeemaking equipment. The en suite bathroom comes equipped with fluffy towels and free amenities.
Delicious fun: Stillwell’s Restaurant provides breakfast, lunch, and supper and serves fresh steaks and seafood. Cocktails, wine, and beer are available.
Bass Lake, Sierra National Forest
Located about 30 minutes from Yosemite’s south entrance, Bass Lake is a hidden gem. Outdoor activities, a village with eateries, markets, swimming pool, and boat rentals rank this recreational area among California’s best lakes. Kayaks, peddle boats, and swimming are among summer activities for kids. There’s also water skiing and wakeboarding. More fun stuff: rent a pontoon and tubes for the kids. The Pines Resort features chalets with patios and BBQ grills.
The Pines Resort & Conference Center (Photo: booking.com)
The water-related fun at Bass Lake can be greatly enhanced by your stay at the Pines Resort & Conference Center – especially since the resort is located right on the edge of the lake. The Pines Resort & Conference Center is also just a short drive from Yosemite National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring all that this beautiful area has to offer.
Fun sights to enjoy: In addition to its prime location, the Pines Resort & Conference Center also offers a range of on-site amenities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. There is also a gift shop, a business center, and a kids’ club.
For your comfort: All of the guest rooms at the Pines Resort & Conference Center are equipped with coffee makers, hair dryers, and ironing boards. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
For foodies: The Pines Resort & Conference Center has its own on-site restaurant, The Dining Room, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a bar and lounge area, as well as room service.
Hume Lake, Kings Canyon National Park
Situated amidst pine trees, Hume Lake’s serenity makes it one of California’s best lakes. No motorized watercrafts are allowed at this secluded lake with sandy beaches and coves. Summer activities for kids include swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The picturesque forest is home to hiking trails and Hume Lake Campground. It’s a short walk to the popular Christian camp where there’s a market and recreational activity rentals.
Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp (Photo: booking.com)
If you are planning a family trip to Hume Lake, you should consider Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp as an option for your accommodation. Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp is located right next to the lake, so you can easily access all the water-based activities that Hume Lake has to offer. In addition, Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp is also close to Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and Sierra National Forest, so you will have plenty of options for exploring the surrounding area.
A range of accommodation: Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs, including motel rooms, cabins, and RV sites.
On-site amenities: Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a laundry room, and a gift shop. Wi-Fi is available in public areas.
For your convenience: All of the accommodation at Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp is equipped with coffee makers and hair dryers. Some units also have kitchenettes.
Dining options: Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp has its own on-site restaurant, the Sierra Room, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a bar area.
Lake Tahoe, Sierra Nevada Mountains
Straddling California and Nevada’s border, Lake Tahoe is North America’s largest (and deepest at 1,645 feet) alpine lake. Tahoe is one of California’s best lakes for families who like modern conveniences in a beautiful setting. Explore the over two-million-old lake on a lake cruise, or rent kayaks and jet skis. Summer activities for kids are aplenty, with fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and bicycling. The Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel offers comfortable digs near the lake.
Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel (Photo: booking.com)
If you are looking for a lakeside getaway that is close to all the action, then look no further than Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel. The location is just a short walk away from Heavenly Ski Resort Gondola and Heavenly Village shopping and dining, so you can easily enjoy all that the area has to offer.
Convenient location: Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, just a short walk away from Heavenly Ski Resort Gondola and Heavenly Village.
A range of accommodation: Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs, including motel rooms, suites, and apartments.
On-site amenities: Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a business center. Wi-Fi is available in public areas.
For your convenience: All of the accommodation at Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is equipped with coffee makers, hair dryers, and ironing boards.
Shasta Lake, Northern California
California’s largest reservoir, Shasta is one of California’s best lakes for boating. Explore coves on a houseboat, fishing boat or patio boat. Summer activities for kids and adults include water skiing, stand-up paddling, and fishing. Antler’s Resort & Marina offers a full marina, store, RV Park, campgrounds, cabins, laundry, pool and spa.
Hope Inn Redding (Photo: booking.com)
When enjoying your time at Shasta Lake, you shouldn’t miss a chance to stay at Hope Inn Redding – a Tudor-style guesthouse that offers a unique experience. The inn is located close to the lake, so you can easily enjoy all the water-based activities that Shasta Lake has to offer. In addition, Hope Inn Redding is also close to a number of other attractions, including Turtle Bay Exploration Park and the Sundial Bridge.
A one-of-a-kind experience: Hope Inn Redding is a Tudor-style guesthouse that offers a unique experience. The inn is located close to the lake, so you can easily enjoy all the water-based activities that Shasta Lake has to offer.
A range of accommodation: Hope Inn Redding offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs, including motel rooms and suites.
On-site amenities: Hope Inn Redding has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a business center. Wi-Fi is available in public areas.
For your convenience: All of the accommodation at Hope Inn Redding is equipped with coffee makers, hair dryers, and ironing boards.
June Lake, Inyo National Forest
Several of California’s best lakes are located in the June Lake area. June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake and Grant Lake comprise the June Lake Loop. Explore one or all for fishing and boating. Shaded pontoons are a relaxing way to enjoy the water. Summer activities for kids include fishing, swimming and hiking. The Parker Lake Trail leads to a stunning alpine lake. Don’t miss Mono Lake, a unique saline lake with tufa towers. On guided canoe tours, see brine shrimp, planktonic algae, and migratory birds. The family-friendly Double Eagle Resort and Spa offers comfy cabins.
Double Eagle Resort and Spa (Photo: booking.com)
If you are looking for a lakeside place to enjoy a very special time with your family, friends, other half, or just having a great yourself time, Double Eagle Resort and Spa is the place for you. The location is just a short drive away from June Mountain Ski Area, so you can easily enjoy all the winter activities that June Lake has to offer.
The perfect place for a special getaway: The resort is located 19.3 km from the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park, Double Eagle Resort and Spa offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs.
On-site amenities: The resort features an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a business center. Wi-Fi is available in public areas.
For your fun and convenience: At the end of an eventful day, you can come back to the resort and relax in the hot tub or fitness center. If you’re feeling ambitious, try out one of the nearby cross country ski trails!
Huntington Lake, Fresno County
One of California’s best lakes is a premier sailing lake in the Sierra National Forest. A thermal effect produces consistent afternoon westerly winds ideal for sailing. The nearly five-mile long lake is also great for windsurfing, swimming and fishing. Fun summer activities for kids include hiking and horseback riding. Claim a spot in one of seven campgrounds.
Vienna Villa (Photo: booking.com)
If you are looking for a place to stay that is close to all the action, then look no further than Vienna Villa – a Shaver Lake vacation property with 3 beds and 3 bathrooms. The vacation rental is 20 kilometers from Snow Bend and 21 kilometers from Rock Haven.
Convenient location: Vienna Villa – 3 Bed 3 Bath Vacation Home in Shaver Lake is 97 kilometers from the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, which is the closest airport.
Amenities: The vacation rental has a fully equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, and Wi-Fi.
For your convenience: The property is close to Shaver Lake, Lakeshore and Cedar Crest.
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, Los Angeles County
The opportunity to water ski and wakeboard within LA makes Castaic one of California’s best lakes for city folks. The family-friendly recreational area has water sports, children’s play areas, picnic spots, and campgrounds. Summer activities for kids include kayaking, inner tubing, and swimming.
Castaic Inn Six Flags Valencia (Photo: booking.com)
When enjoying your family time at Castaic Lake, pay attention to Castaic Inn Six Flags Valencia which is accessible by car in 5 minutes to Six Flags Magic Mountain. This motel’s rooms are all air conditioned and have flat-screen TVs. A small refrigerator and a private toilet are provided in each room. Free toiletries and a hairdryer are provided as extras.
Amazing entertainment available: Universal Studios, Santa Monica, and the Vista Valencia Golf Course are all within 30, 45, and 10 minutes of the property, respectively. The resort is 45 minutes’ drive from Los Angeles International Airport.
A variety of accommodation: All rooms have a coffee machine and a microwave. Select suites feature an equipped kitchen with a dining area.
On-site amenities: The Castaic Inn Six Flags Valencia has an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and laundry facilities. Wi-Fi is available in all areas.
(MORE: Awesome Lake Vacations with Kids)
Clear Lake, Northern California
Situated north of Napa, Clear Lake is the oldest and most geologically unique in all of North America. Nearly half a million years old, it’s among California’s best lakes for land and water activities, AND stargazing. Volcanic activity creates warm water ideal lake activities. On land, rich soil produces impressive wines. The range of summer activities for kids includes water sports, fishing and swimming. Sleep under the stars or stay at Clear Lake Cottages & Marina.
Clear Lake Cottages & Marina (Photo: booking.com)
If you need a comfortable accommodation close to all the volcanoes sightseeing, Clear Lake Cottages & Marina is your best choice. The cottages are only 2.4 km from Konocti Volcano and 3.2 km from Soda Bay.
Extremely convenient for the whole family: All of the units feature a seating area, a TV with satellite channels, and a fully equipped kitchen with a dining area and an oven. A fridge, a stovetop and toaster are also available.
Fun activities available: For those interested in golfing or canoeing, Clear Lake Cottages & Marina is only a 48 kilometers from Williams and 44 away from Calistoga.
Lake Havasu
Situated on the border between California and Arizona, Lake Havasu is king of houseboating. The 45-mile-long lake’s many coves make it one of California’s best lakes for exploring on a houseboat. Swimming, waterskiing and fishing are among summer activities for kids on the lake. A major attraction is London Bridge in Arizona. The 1830s bridge once spanned the River Thames in London, England, but was dismantled and transferred to Lake Havasu.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Havasu (Photo: booking.com)
Looking for a place near London Bridge, you shouldn’t miss a chance to visit IHG Hotel – 1.5 km from the Havasu Samaritan Regional Hospital Heliport and 2.5 km from Body Beach are located in Lake Havasu City.
Convenient and fun: Pittsburg Point is 2.9 miles from the lodging, while Lake Havasu City Airport is 2.8 km distant. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Havasu is 11 kilometers from Lake Havasu City Airport, which is the closest airport.
For business trips and family vacations: The front desk and business center are open around-the-clock at this 3-star hotel. There are family rooms at the hotel.
Mimi Slawoff of Planetfamilytravel contributed this to MiniTime. She is a Los Angeles-based journalist and a seasoned family travel expert who explores the world with her three children and writes about their journeys.
