Southern California is a playground of beaches, mountains, and theme parks. With a car rental from LAX, these seven family day trips keep the driving easy and the fun high.
1) Santa Monica & Malibu
Start on the Santa Monica Pier for rides and churros, then glide up PCH to Malibu’s El Matador or Leo Carrillo for sea caves and tidepools. Pack layers—mornings can be cool even in summer.
2) Griffith Park & Observatory
Let kids loose at Travel Town, ride the miniature trains, then time the Observatory for sunset cityscapes. Book tickets or check hours ahead, especially on weekends.
3) Disneyland & Anaheim
Use HOV lanes where eligible and consider a Santa Ana (SNA) pick‑up for the shortest hop to the parks. Reserve strollers and lockers to keep hands free.
4) Long Beach & Aquarium of the Pacific
Shoreline Village carousels, harbor cruises, and the aquarium’s touch pools make this perfect for younger travelers. Nearby garages simplify parking.
5) San Diego Zoo or Balboa Park
Follow I‑5 south to world‑class exhibits and leafy gardens. Prefer to start closer? Try a San Diego pick‑up and make it a full day with La Jolla coves.
6) Pasadena & Kidspace
Mix Old Town treats with hands‑on science at Kidspace. The Arroyo Seco offers picnic spots and shaded walks nearby.
7) Ojai or Santa Barbara
Head north for Spanish‑style architecture, mission courtyards, and beach strolls. Stop for Danish pastries in Solvang if you extend to the Santa Ynez Valley.
Road‑Trip Logistics
- Start early and return after dinner to dodge peak traffic.
- Keep snacks, water, and sun protection handy.
- Many freeways offer carpool lanes (2+ or 3+)—check signage before entering.
Compare Los Angeles pick‑ups and statewide options like California routes. Every Hola Car Rentals booking includes an All‑Inclusive+ Rate, No additional fees (save up to 60%), and Free Cancellation. Prefer UK wording? Browse our LAX car hire page.
Smart LA Driving
Use navigation apps with live traffic, avoid cross‑town detours at peak hours, and set realistic expectations—kids enjoy fewer stops for longer than adults expect when snacks and music are ready.
Parking & Safety
- Beach lots in Santa Monica and Malibu fill fast—arrive early on weekends.
- Keep valuables out of sight; take cameras and passports with you.
- Observe posted speed limits on PCH; cyclists share narrow shoulders.
Family Packing List
- Stroller or baby carrier for museums and boardwalks.
- Light jackets for cool coastal mornings.
- Power bank, snacks, and refillable water bottles.
With Hola Car Rentals you get transparent pricing—no surprises at the counter—and coverage baked into the rate. That means less time debating add‑ons and more time making memories.
Sample Family Day Plan
Morning: Start at Santa Monica Pier, then drive north on PCH for beach time and tidepools. Midday: Grab lunch in Malibu or back in Santa Monica; nap time in the car while you cruise east. Afternoon: Head to Griffith Park for trains and playgrounds, then the Observatory for sunset. Evening: Cap the day with tacos in Los Feliz before the return drive.
Car Seats & Comfort
Reserve child seats in advance—they often sell out during holidays. A midsize SUV balances cargo room with city parking; minivans are perfect for strollers and coolers. Keep a bag with sunscreen, wipes, and spare clothes within arm’s reach.
Stretch Goals
Got extra time? Add an hour at the La Brea Tar Pits, hike Temescal Canyon for coastal views, or continue north to Santa Barbara’s Mission and shoreline playgrounds. The key is spacing out driving blocks with play breaks.
Every booking through Hola Car Rentals comes with transparent pricing—No additional fees—and an All‑Inclusive+ Rate so you can focus on the fun.
