Any of the little parks in Santa Monica near the water are good - you all could run around on the grass for awhile, then grab lunch on the promenade, stop in one of the shops that has activities for kids - face painting, paint a clay sculpture, etc.

Best beaches for actually going in the water - probably Segundo - you need to drive south along the south, about half way to OC. Beaches for viewing, lounging and side activities like biking, eating in the sand - start out in Marina Del Rey, rent some bikes, and head north to Santa Monica. You can start out with a late breakfast in Marina at one of the cafes on Washington Blvd and get your bikes after.

Obviously, Disneyland is a fun day trip. Other stuff in LA proper - the Getty has a thorough section for children, Alvera street in down town - not a full day of activities though so you may want to pair this with a visit to China Town which is not too far from Alvera. Those are friendly for the whole family, but obviously there are kid-specific things too.

Griffith Park? Think there is horseback riding and maybe trains. And there's the observatory. Not sure if they still have laser light shows but in any case it has beautiful views at night.

I'm traveling to Los Angeles this summer. I have a few questions:

Besides theme parks, what is there to do in Los Angeles for elementary age children? Can you recommend any parks, museums, or activities that are geared towards young children?

What are the best family friendly beaches?

Also, what family friendly hotels and neighborhoods will you recommend?


Thanks in advance!