If you are desperate for a change of scenery, we’ve got just the spots for you. These Airbnb rentals in Miami are the perfect spot to get away with your family as they are super close to the beach, but also have that pool you’ve been dreaming of. You’ll find tons family-friendly amenities in these Airbnb rentals including cribs, full kitchens and tons of outdoor space. There are even a few that are pet friendly!
Tropical Paradise—Miami, FL
You won't want to leave this gorgeous home that has the tropical backyard of your vacation dreams. Grill out on the barbecue and enjoy the pool's waterfall and outdoor sound system. A crib and pack n' play are both available for families to use.
Enjoy a courtyard and pool deck designed with plenty of outdoor seating and a tiki hut. The property has synthetic grass through out, perfect for kids and family to sit and play on. You can also book the property's pool house if you'd like additional space.
Welcome to your private luxurious tropical oasis! This gem is perfect for families looking to relax! Only one mile from Hollywood Beach, home to one of America's Best Beach Boardwalks, this 3 bedroom and 3 bathroom home features 2 master suites and new furnishings. A lovely salt water pool for maximum enjoyment in your own backyard paradise awaits.
Your family will love hanging out in the heated, outdoor pool and enjoying some dinner from the BBQ. This property is just a 15 minute drive from Miami Beach, 20 minutes from MIA (40 minutes from FLL Airport), and has several bars and restaurants within a short walk. Bonus: the property is pet-friendly.
Luxurious Paradise for Unforgettable Vacations—Miami, FL
You'll love this beautiful home to enjoy at your convenience with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and a spacious kitchen with individual family room for entertainment. Boats are available for rent at an additional fee. Enjoy your afternoon by the pool with the waterfall to keep a chill vibe.
If you are looking to relax with your family, this spot is for you. You'll love the upgraded decor and the backyard that's like a peaceful spa. Walk to the park for a picnic and view of the bay.
Where are you going on spring break? While packed indoor spaces are still no-go’s, outdoor destinations and attractions are the places to be this spring. With that in mind, LawnStarter rounded up the best of best cities for spring outdoor activities.
The website ranked the top 200 biggest cities for outdoor activities and safety. Factors included in the ranking are the number of public gardens, campsites and trails, along with the amount of spring sun in the city and walkability.
The top 10 best outdoor cities for the spring are:
San Francisco, California
Portland, Oregon
Honolulu, Hawaii
Mesa, Arizona
Washington, DC
Tucson, Arizona
Los Angeles, California
Long Beach, California
Huntington Beach, California
Las Vegas, Nevada
Even though the nation’s capitol came in at number five on the list, Washington, D.C. was rated as the most walkable city in the country. It also outperformed other cities in its bike score, number of attractions and number of public gardens. If you live on the West Coast or prefer to travel to an ocean-side city, California, Oregon, and Hawaii all have top-pick places to consider for your fam’s outdoors adventures.
Before you book your vaycay, you might also want to consider how the weather could impact your outdoor plans. According to LawnStarter’s stats, Nevada cities have the least rain in the spring season—with a five-way tie between Paradise, Spring Valley, Las Vegas, North Las Vegas and Henderson.
With 2020 firmly behind and the 2021 summer around the corner, our hopes are on the rise for the resumption of travel this year. While grateful for being relatively COVID-safe in Singapore’s golden cage, the smallness of our island has us pining for the outside.
2021 and there are 227 inhabited Greek islands. Where should we even get started?
As they say in Greece, hope dies last. Under lockdown, I’ve combed through island after island, selecting our visions of paradise for the next three summers. By now, I’ve read every major travel magazine article, little known blog post, and forum review on the destinations of interest. Each island has a tab in my spreadsheet and a file on Instagram collecting information and inspiration as I go.
Finally, I have the luxury of time to plan a vacation. A true rarity for moms. And finally, I’ve found exactly what we’ve been looking for: stylish and reasonably priced vacation villa gems located directly on child-friendly beaches in mid-size Cycladic seaside villages. Day trip options for semi-private cruises to neighboring islands with out-of-this-world beachscapes. Where to send the kids for a pottery workshop while in Sifnos…Any trip from here will never be so well planned. And as parents with the load of baggage we carry, some volatile with surprises, invaluable is a seamlessly organized holiday.
The simulation of travel in the planning process soon became therapeutic escapism. From home, I visualized us on that beach house patio with a cool glass of Assyrtiko in hand. Slowly sipping, we watch the kids frolick in fine white sand as the sky changes color. Later, we take an evening to wander through cobblestone paths of whitewashed villages, alive with the soul of Greece. I deviate to shop online for kaftans. I think we will dine at a Greek restaurant tonight.
Sure, I may have to cancel everything a month before June but herein lies a precious exercise in non-attachment and letting go: There is meaning in learning to defer to forces beyond our control. So much of our days as parents never go as planned anyways. And if the process of pursuing an end result designed to bring happiness, instead dominates with anger and frustration, what then is the point of the whole endeavor?
Savor the planning, inhabit the surprises, heal if you must, and journey on. Enjoy the entirety of your travels, and consider 2021 an opportunity for the most well researched you, ever. Whether in a summer sojourn, or the journey of life.
A restless city-loving Singaporean learning how to be still, embrace the antithesis of her husband's Greek nature and homeland, and master motherhood. After moving from Athens, we now live in Chicago, and are set to return to Singapore for a proper village welcome of our second baby.
The San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park aren’t the only places you’ll find wild animals in San Diego. We know plenty of secret zoos where you can see pigs, goats, peacocks, sea lions, flamingos and more. The best part is––all of these places are free of charge and free to roam! Read on to learn where beautiful animals are hiding in plain sight all over the city.
Editor’s note: Some of these locations may be open with a limited schedule, so always check before you go.
Peacocks roam freely around this historic homestead where actor Leo Carrillo used to live. If you find a peacock feather on the ground you can take one home for free, but if you find more they ask you to give them to the visitors center so they can sell them in their gift shop to help fund ranch restorations.
Leo Carrillo Ranch 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane, Carlsbad 858-638-0672 Online: carrillo-ranch.org/visit
Billy and Gracie are the resident harbor seals at the Bahia Hotel. They were rescued and now live the high life at the resort. Their swimming pool is right next to the cute Airstream trailer that offers grab n go drinks and snacks.
Bahia Resort Hotel 998 West Mission Bay Dr., Mission Bay 858-488-0551 Online: bahiahotel.com
Drive over to this island oasis and look for the pink flamingos at the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa. You’ll find them between the hotel and tennis courts with views looking out towards the Coronado Bridge. Plan for extra time to walk along the beautiful bay for a scenic walk and views of the San Diego skyline.
Discover this farm in the middle of the city at City Farmers Nursery. You’ll find all kinds of animals like goats, bunnies, donkeys and even a cow! Next door is Nate’s Garden Grill where you can grab a bite to eat after exploring the farm.
City Farmers Nursery 3110 Euclid Ave., City Heights 619-284-6358 Online: cityfarmersnursery.com
Fly over to this hidden gem at Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay. Walk the grounds to feel like you’re in a jungle with birds flying all around you. There are 2 lagoons filled with ducks, turtles, geese, koi fish and even great blue herons. The gift shop sells duck food and the proceeds benefit a local charity. If you’re brave enough, climb to the top of the lookout tower to come face to beak with the birds in the treetops!
Paradise Point Resort & Spa 1404 Vacation Rd., Mission Bay 858-240-4913 Online: paradisepoint.com
Walk into the past where Kate Sessions used to sell plants out of her house in 1910, now turned into Mission Hills Nursery. In the back is where you’ll find the chickens in the coop, unless they’re clucking around the gardens. A couple of friendly cats can be found lazing around in the sunny spots too.
What’s Nearby: One block west is Kettle & Stone coffee shop and one block south is Pioneer Park with a playground and bathrooms.
Giddy-up to Sunshine Gardens where you’ll find this adorable miniature horse sharing paddocks with his goat friends. Time your visit right and you’ll even get to feed them! They’re located across the parking lot away from the rest of the grounds, but you must wander over to the gardens and you’ll find plenty more. In the back are pigs, more goats and chickens; in the succulent garden is a bird aviary enclosure; and to the left you can’t miss the hydroponics with tanks full of koi fish big and small.
What’s Nearby: San Diego Botanic Gardens are just down the street and Cottonwood Creek Park with bathrooms and an epic playground is 1 mile west, also near Cali Cream Ice Cream and Leucadia Pizza.
Bring your own carrots to feed Holly and Base, Nubian goats who live at this historic ranch house. They also like celery, romaine and iceberg lettuce. Take in some history from 1823 at this second oldest residence in San Diego County. Miles of trails start here to explore the Los Penasquitos Canyon (and waterfall!) by bike, hike or even horseback. You’ll see a playground as you enter the long driveway, but it’s quite a distance from there to the goats at the ranch house, so plan to drive between them for little legs.
Parking: Even though park entry gates are locked at 5 p.m., there are plenty of other lower parking lots that you can walk up from.
Rancho Penasquitos Adobe Ranch House 12122 Canyonside Park Dr., Rancho Penasquitos 858-484-7504 Online: sdparks.org/RanchoLosPenasquitos
Be part of their world as you make friends with the fish inside this pop-up bubble aquarium. You’ll find this large aquarium inside the kids play area at the Plaza Bonita Mall. This is one of the few indoor malls in San Diego, so check to make sure the mall is open before you go, and ask if the kids play area is open.
Westfield Plaza Bonita Mall 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd., National City 619-267-2850 Online: westfield.com/plazabonita
Club Med’s brand new resort, La Rosière, is tucked away in the French Alps and boasts the first of it’s kind chocolate paradise. The specially designed room comes with chocolate orange printed bedding, a custom segment headboard and personalized stockings filled with chocolate, of course.
photo: Courtesy of Club Med
When you snag a night, you’ll also get room service that includes chocolate orange-themed treats (think chocolate orange hot chocolate and chocolate orange truffles), a real Christmas tree adorned with chocolate orange baubles, custom chocolate orange skis and even chocolate orange scented toilet paper!
The brand new resort has state-of-the-art facilities and restaurants starts at $331 AUD per person per night, and will be opening soon.
It hasn’t all been paradise in Hawaii these last few months, but with the governor’s recent announcement of a pre-arrival testing program, hotels can safely being to reopen. Big on the list? Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa on Oahu.
Disney Parks Blog announced on Sept. 24 that the resort will start a phased reopening on Nov. 1. Like all Disney properties, the resort will take the recent safety guidelines into consideration to keep staff, cast and guests healthy.
photo: Andi Huber
When Aulani reopens, all rooms, experiences, restaurants, amenities and other offerings may look a little different or be unavailable. Guests can expect to see a limit to capacity and at this time, many offerings are not guaranteed.
Before you book, be sure to check out the Hawaii Tourism Authority website for all pre-travel screening requirements. You can also stay up to date on the reopening process on the Aulani website.
Families come from all over the world to hike the trails in Mt. Rainier National Park. Lucky for you, taking your little explorers on a mountain adventure doesn’t involve quite as much planning. Live like the mountain is out with these not-to-be-missed hikes and highlights in our own backyard. Let’s hit the trail!
The main park entrance is open again and there’s plenty to do just a short drive from the gate. Six miles in you’ll find the historic area of Longmire. Although there's lots to do there, these three options keep things simple for the kids (and parents!). Start with a less-than-a-mile hike around the Trail of the Shadows. Here you’ll find large, looming trees, fun-to-cross bridges and an old cabin the kids can explore. Next up is hiking a laid-back section of the Wonderland Trail. Look for a small sign next to the administrative building (the stone one with a flag) to pick up this sweet, riverside path that winds through the forest and lets you out at the Cougar Rock Campground. If the kids still have energy left, take them down to see Narada Falls, a little further up the road. Besides picnic tables and an arched bridge, families can hike down to the viewpoint to revel in the mist and possibly spy a rainbow. Keep a close eye on Littles as wet rocks can be slippery.
Open amenities: This is an easy spot to park and explore for the day, as restrooms are open, and families can snag cold grab ‘n’ go food (and water!) from the Longmire General Store or something hot to-go from the National Park Inn dining room, if you need to warm up.
If you drive to Paradise, the Nisqually Vista and Myrtle Falls hikes are two that are totally do-able for families. Pack a lunch or snack and enjoy it at the Paradise Picnic Area, about a quarter-mile before the main parking lot, where you’ll find lots of tables and restrooms too. Bonus find—download the Paradise QR code (new this year) to get all the info you need digitally. You can find it in the park newspaper or posted outside the Paradise Visitor’s Center.
In the northwest corner or the park is the Carbon River Entrance. It’s the shortest drive from the city and offers miles of hikeable rainforest that might have you mistaking it for the Hoh. On a sunny day its shade is a welcome respite, and since it’s at a lower elevation, you don’t have to worry about snow, ever. The five-mile, out-and-back hike along Carbon River Road (don't worry, it's closed to traffic) is over level ground, so kids of any age can handle it. And the wide trails mean social distancing is easy too. Although you won't find picnic tables here, it’s just the excuse you need to pull up a log and enjoy a snack or lunch along the way. If your kids are older, consider biking this route. It's one of the few spots in the park where bike riding is allowed.
Good to know: The regular parking lot is closed, so parking is limited, but available. And although the trail is stroller friendly, getting your stroller to the trail can be tricky. There’s a narrow stretch where the road washed out, between where you park and the trailhead that may not accommodate strollers. But carrying it (and your kiddo) through the area is an option.
Open amenities: You’ll find porta potties here but not much else.
The entrance on the northeast corner of the park is how explorers get to Sunrise, the highest point you can drive to. If you’re looking for views, this is an easy spot to get them without much work. With tons of out-and-back trails that leave from the parking area, there’s one that’ll suit your kids’ abilities and your time frame, too. Take it easy on the Sunrise Nature Trail, a simple loop you can pick up at the end of the picnic area. It’s all about meadows and views. On your way up to Sunrise, be sure to stop at Tipsoo Lake for a quick half-mile stroll among mountain wildflowers. Families can also pick up the Naches Peak Loop trail here (psst..it’s usually not snow-free until August). Our tip? Hit these trails earlier in the morning to avoid afternoon crowds that make social distancing more of a challenge.
Open amenities: Although the Visitor’s Center at Sunrise is closed, families can find restrooms and grab ‘n’ go food to fill hungry tummies up here. Tipsoo Lake offers picnic tables and restrooms, making it a great place to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon.
If an extra long day trip, or an adventure that includes an overnight stay is what you’re after, exploring Ohanapecosh (in the southeast corner) is the way to go. Don’t miss the popular Grove of the Patriarchs, especially if towering trees are your jam. Your kids will love walking among them as much as they’ll love crossing the cool suspension bridge that takes hikers over the Ohanapecosh River. Notice how blue and clear the water is? That’s because it’s snow melt, not glacier. The trail up to Silver Falls offers more of a challenge. It’s longer, but still level and loops right back to the campground where you started. Watch your kids carefully if you take this route. The waterfall spray makes rocks extra slippery.
Open amenities: You’ll find picnic tables and restrooms a plenty at the Ohanapecosh Campground. Pack in what you need to feed the kids, and don’t forget the water.
Visiting Mt. Rainier National Park is great; when you save money doing it, it’s even better. Put these upcoming 2020 free days on your calendar to play without paying: Aug. 25, Sept. 26 & Nov. 11. If you’ve got a fourth grader, the Every Kid in a Park program is another great way to save. Free entrance into any national park for your kiddo, plus family? Sign us up!
Things are definitely different at Mt. Rainier right now, and you’ll notice more than a few changes due to Covid-19. You can get the full scoop on what’s happening at the park to keep visitors safe and how you can recreate responsibly here. But families should expect the same requirements in the park that they find in other parts of the state. Bring your masks and use them when you aren’t able to social distance, and stick with your immediate group, whether you’re enjoying lunch at a picnic table or hiking along a trail. Hand sanitizer is a must, as is using it.
1. Expect conditions that range from snow to sunshine until late summer. So dress in layers (and bring your sunscreen!) to keep everyone warm, dry and comfy.
2. Although grab ‘n’ go snacks are available at a few spots in the park, it’s always a good idea to bring extras and plenty of water so the kids stay happy.
3. If Junior Ranger badges are what your kids are after, they can still earn them this summer. Grab one on the way into the park and complete the activities while you’re there.
4. Fill up before you leave the city. Gas stations are scarce once you get near the park, and they’re non-existent within it.
5. Cell phone reception is limited, so print out any maps or download any apps you need before you go.
6. Keep your fur babies at home, please, as they aren’t allowed in Mt. Rainier.
7. Rainy weather means fewer people. So if you can handle a drizzle, consider visiting on a rainy or overcast day to make social distancing that much easier.
Let’s go camping, San Diego! After sheltering in place for so long, it’s time to plan a family camping trip your whole clan will love! We’ve found several of the best camping grounds near and in San Diego that are open for business during this time of social distancing. Getting out of the house and into nature will certainly make for happy campers all around. From cabins and tent sites to s’mores and healthy hikes read on for the scoop on eight San Diego campsites you can book now.
El Capitan Head up the coast. Right now, El Capitan has curbside check-in without leaving your car. There are less reservations available (to maintain social distancing) and only cabins are available, so everyone has their own restroom. Even more, you can order take-out orders from the market and they’ve expanded outdoor seating to make more room for everyone.
Campland on the Bay Overlooking Fiesta Bay is a perfect spot for camping with the crew. Right now, they are open for RV or tent camping. Campland has increased its daily cleaning, the market and coffee is open, and the cantina food is available for takeout. Please remember to bring face masks for everyone and practice social distancing with those not in your group. A few things are closed like the playground, pool, spa and sports court until further notice.
2211 Pacific Beach Dr. San Diego, CA 92109 Online: campland.com
Check out our story on the best glamping sites in SoCal, here.
Family Yurt Camping
Skyfarm
Skyfarm Yurt Experience this down-to-earth family yurt in Paradise Hill near Las Angeles. It’s sparkling clean, with self check-in, and you get the whole place to yourself. Located on an urban farm with goats, chickens and a pig next door. You'll find a full outdoor kitchen, claw foot garden (solar) bathtub with hot running water. There are steps, so for toddlers, this yurt may be a challenge. Yurt starts at $149 plus per night.
Paradise Hills Neighborhood Los Angeles, CA 92139 Online: airbnb.com
Treebones Resort Glamp it up in a Big Sur yurt. Note that only kids six and older are allowed here. Re-opening June 1, 2020, there will be reduced seating in the restaurant, face coverings on employees, enhanced room cleaning, and a room service dining option. Experience the beauty of the coast, from nature walks, a spa, pool and organic garden, you and your family will feel close to the earth. Cost starts at $320 per night. There are two family yurts and one with a view!
Guajome Regional Park Part of the San Diego Parks, this local Oceanside spot is open for tent camping. Two lakes and easier hiking trails make for fun family times. Recent social distancing rules have the campground operating at half the capacity and all campers must wear face masks when close to others not in their group. Restrooms are open too. However, amenities like picnic tables and playgrounds are closed for now.
William Heise Park Close to Julian, you could make a pitstop for apple pie, then head to the campsite. This county park has tent, partial hookup, and no hookup sites available. Recent social distancing rules have the campground operating at half the capacity which allows for more room to move around. In addition, all campers must wear face masks when close to others not in their group. Restrooms are open too. Some amenities like picnic tables and playgrounds are closed for now.
Check out our story about the best campsites for families near San Diego, here.
Luxury Camping
Amber E. via Yelp
Santee Lakes With cabin, tent, trailer and motorhome campsites available, Santee Lakes is open for camping. A few things are different in this time of social distancing. Only members of your household are allowed to campsites and the swimming pool and market are closed. On the other hand, you can use the paddle boat that is assigned to your campsite, the laundry is open and cleaned daily. Head out and enjoy Mother Nature!
9310 Fanita Pkwy. Santee, CA 92117 619-596-3141 Online: santeelakes.com
Crystal Pier Cottages If you want to take a few day glamping vacay (minimum 3 night stay), then give the Crystal Pier Cottages a try. Built in the 1930s, they include kitchenettes, bedroom and living room and a private deck with an unbeatable view of the ocean. Another perk: cottages have gated key entry and night security. Open for business, give them a call.
4500 Ocean Blvd. San Diego, CA 92109 800-748-5894 Online: crystalpier.com
Check-out our story on SoCal luxury camping suggestions, here.
Editor’s note: Due to the ever-changing nature of rules and regulations surrounding Covid-19, the information in this story may change. When planning your trip, please check the website of the campsite you will be visiting, and/or call them directly to obtain details on their most current camping offerings.
Disney Parks, Experiences and Products made a huge announcement on Wed., Jun. 10: they have released proposed plans for a phased reopening of the Disneyland Resort! In accordance with state and local government approval, the California resort will begin a phased reopening Jul. 9.
The Downtown Disney District and theme parks will be the first to open, followed by hotels. Guests can start visiting, shopping and dining Downtown Disney beginning Jul. 9, gain access to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Jul. 17 and stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel starting Jul. 23.
photo: Courtesy of Disney
The theme parks will operate at reduced capacity to promote physical distancing and comply with regulations. Like Walt Disney World, both California parks will use a new theme park reservation system that requires all guests (including Annual Passholders) to have a reservation before entering the parks. Due to the capacity limitations, Disney has put a pause on all new ticket sales, Annual Passport sales and renewals temporarily.
Within the park, any experience that draws large crowds, such as parade and fireworks will be temporarily on hold. Character meet and greets will also return at a later time, but park guests will be able to spot them walking around the parks!
Disney has also made changes to ensure the utmost health practices throughout the resort. A Guest Experience Team will be stationed throughout the parks and Downtown Disney District to help guests with any and all questions. As the situation continues to evolve, Disney will release more info on parks and changes, which can be found at Disney Parks Blog and Disneyland.com.
In recognition of Earth Month, Disney+ announced the Disneynature film Elephant, narrated by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, will premiere on Apr. 3. Previously, they also announced Dolphin Reef narrated by Natalie Portman. Also, following its theatrical release last year, Penguins will also make its Disney+ debut on Apr. 3.
The Earth Month collection on Disney+ will also contain additional Disneynature titles premiering on Apr. 3 as well, including In the Footsteps of Elephant, A Life on the Edge and Diving with Dolphins which give viewers behind-the-scenes access into the unique film making process of all three films. These titles join a collection of animal and nature titles from from National Geographic and Disneynature that will be highlighted throughout the month.
According to the film’s description, “Directed by Mark Linfield, co-directed by Vanessa Berlowitz and Alastair Fothergill, and produced by Mark Linfield, Vanessa Berlowitz and Roy Conli, Elephant follows African elephant Shani and her spirited son Jomo as their herd make an epic journey hundreds of miles across the vast Kalahari Desert. Led by their great matriarch, Gaia, the family faces brutal heat, dwindling resources and persistent predators, as they follow in their ancestor’s footsteps on a quest to reach a lush, green paradise.”
In recognition of Elephant, Disneynature and the Disney Conservation Fund are supporting Elephants Without Borders, an organization working in Botswana to ensure people and elephants thrive.