Are you planning a road trip with your family along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway? With its breathtaking coastal views, charming towns, and exciting attractions, the West Coast is the perfect destination for a family vacation. However, traveling with kids can sometimes be challenging, especially when it comes to finding activities that will keep them entertained and engaged. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best attractions for kids along the Pacific Coast Highway. From museums and aquariums to theme parks and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone on this list. The list I’ve compiled includes the top attractions for kids along the entire stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway, from Seattle, Washington to San Diego, California.
We’ll highlight each attraction’s unique features and why it’s a must-visit destination for families. You’ll learn about the best museums to explore, the most exciting theme parks to visit, and the top outdoor adventures to experience with your kids. Whether your family loves wildlife, history, or thrill rides, we’ve got you covered with a range of attractions that will make your family road trip unforgettable. With our guide, you’ll be able to plan your itinerary and maximize your time on the West Coast, ensuring that your family will have a fantastic time on this exciting adventure. So get ready to hit the road and explore the Pacific Coast Highway with your family, and don’t forget to check out our list of the 10 best attractions for kids along the way!
1. Feiro Marine Life Center
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 180 MI/ 290 KM PORT ANGELES, WASHINGTON
GPS: 48.12022, -123.42887
ADDRESS: 315 N Lincoln St, Port Angeles, WA 98362
The Feiro Marine Life Center is a fantastic family-friendly attraction located in Port Angeles, Washington, that’s perfect for kids of all ages. This unique center provides an up-close look at the diverse marine life found in the Salish Sea and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
At the Feiro Marine Life Center, kids can explore interactive exhibits, view live marine animals, and participate in educational programs led by knowledgeable staff. Visitors can touch and observe sea stars, crabs, anemones, and other fascinating sea creatures in the center’s touch tanks.
The center also offers a range of activities for kids, such as scavenger hunts, crafts, and storytelling sessions. For those interested in learning more about marine science, the center offers summer camps and other educational programs that provide an in-depth look at the Salish Sea’s ecology and biodiversity.
2. Marsh’s Free Museum
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 413 MI/ 665 KM LONG BEACH, WASHINGTON
GPS: 46.34929, -124.05530
ADDRESS: 409 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, WA 98631
Marsh’s Free Museum is a unique and quirky family-friendly attraction located in Long Beach, Washington. This popular stop along the Pacific Coast Highway offers an eclectic mix of oddities, souvenirs, and collectibles that will fascinate both kids and adults alike.
The museum features a wide range of items on display, including vintage arcade games, antique cars, and a collection of more than 5,000 different kinds of seashells. The museum’s most famous attraction, however, is its collection of oddities, which includes a two-headed calf, a mummified mermaid, and a giant clam that once held the record for being the largest in the world.
Marsh’s Free Museum is an entertaining and engaging stop on any family road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. The museum’s collection of oddities and vintage arcade games offer a fun and lighthearted experience for kids, making it an ideal stop for families looking for a unique and memorable experience.
3. Sea Lion Caves
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 602 MI/ 969 KM FLORENCE, OREGON
GPS: 44.12181, -124.12685
ADDRESS: 91560 US-101, Florence, OR 97439
The Sea Lion Caves is a one-of-a-kind family-friendly attraction located just south of Florence, Oregon, and is a must-visit destination for any family road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. The caves offer a unique opportunity for visitors to observe sea lions in their natural habitat, and the experience is sure to captivate kids of all ages.
The Sea Lion Caves is the largest sea cave in the world, and visitors can take an elevator down 208 feet to an observation deck that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the sea lions that call this cave home. The observation deck provides a unique vantage point for visitors to observe the sea lions as they swim, play, and rest on the rocks. Visitors can also learn about the sea lions and their habitat through informative exhibits and educational programs.
Overall, the Sea Lion Caves is an exciting and engaging family-friendly attraction that offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and wonder of the Pacific Coast. The stunning views, fascinating exhibits, and adorable sea lions make this a must-visit destination for any family traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
4. Trees of Mystery
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 810 MI/ 1304 KM KLAMATH, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 41.58486, -124.08606
ADDRESS: 15500 US-101, Klamath, CA 95548
Trees of Mystery is one of the best family attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway, located in Klamath, California. This unique attraction offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Northern California coast and learn about the region’s indigenous culture and history.
At Trees of Mystery, visitors can take a scenic gondola ride through the towering redwoods, where they will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Along the way, visitors can stop at various platforms to take in the natural beauty and learn about the history and ecology of the redwoods.
Overall, Trees of Mystery is an exciting and educational family-friendly attraction that offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Northern California coast. The stunning views, educational exhibits, and exciting adventure course make this a must-visit destination for any family traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
5. Legend of Big Foot
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 951 MI/ 1530 KM GARBERVILLE, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 40.03431, -123.79325
ADDRESS: 2500 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542
The Legend of Bigfoot is a fun and interactive family-friendly attraction located in the town of Garberville, California, and is a must-visit stop for any family traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. This unique gift shop is dedicated to the famous creature of lore, Bigfoot, and offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
6. Seymour Marine Discovery Center
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1258 MI/ 2025 KM SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.94932, -122.06500
ADDRESS: 100 McAllister Way, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a fantastic family-friendly attraction located in Santa Cruz, California, that offers an interactive and educational experience for kids of all ages. The center features a range of exhibits and activities that allow visitors to learn about the marine life of the Monterey Bay, including touch tanks, live animal displays, and interactive exhibits.
Visitors can get up close and personal with a variety of marine creatures, including sea stars, sea urchins, and even sharks and rays. The center also offers guided tours of the nearby beach and tide pools, where visitors can explore and learn about the various plants and animals that make their home in the intertidal zone. The interactive exhibits, live animal displays, and guided tours make this a must-visit attraction for any family with kids.
7. Monterey Bay Aquarium
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1303 MI/ 2097 KM MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.61826, -121.90179
ADDRESS: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Another great stop on my list of best attractions for family and kids is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world-renowned destination that offers an incredible experience for families with kids. Located in Monterey, California, the aquarium features a range of exhibits and interactive activities that allow visitors to learn about the marine life of the Monterey Bay.
The aquarium’s most popular exhibits include the Kelp Forest, where kids can observe giant kelp and a variety of fish and invertebrates, and the Open Sea exhibit, which features a 90-foot window that provides a view of schools of tuna, sharks, and other pelagic creatures.
In addition to the exhibits, the Monterey Bay Aquarium also offers a range of educational programs and activities for kids. The Splash Zone is a hands-on exhibit that allows young visitors to touch and learn about marine creatures, while the Discovery Lab provides opportunities for kids to participate in science experiments and activities.
If you would like to discover more great aquariums along the Pacific Coast Highway, check out my blog post about it: Pacific Coast Highway – The TOP 7 BEST Aquariums & Marine Life Centers
8. Elephant Seal Vista Point
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1392 MI/ 2240 KM SAN SIMEON, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 35.66296, -121.25773
Elephant Seal Vista Point is a fantastic family-friendly attraction located in San Simeon, California. This scenic overlook offers visitors the chance to observe a colony of northern elephant seals, which can be seen basking on the beach or engaging in playful sparring matches.
The vista point is free to visit and provides a unique opportunity for families with kids to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Interpretive panels and volunteers are on hand to provide information and answer questions about the seals’ behavior, biology, and habitat.
In addition to the seals, Elephant Seal Vista Point offers stunning coastal views, with the rugged coastline and crashing waves providing a dramatic backdrop for the seal colony. Families can enjoy a picnic on the grassy overlook or take a stroll on one of the nearby hiking trails.
9. Bubblegum Alley
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1438 MI/ 2314 KM SAN LUIS OBISPO, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 35.27912, -120.66385
ADDRESS: 733 Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Bubblegum Alley is a unique and quirky attraction located in downtown San Luis Obispo, California. It is a narrow alleyway lined with walls covered in chewed bubblegum. While some people may find it unappealing, many kids find it fascinating and a fun place to visit.
Visiting Bubblegum Alley can be a unique and memorable experience for kids. They can take pictures next to the colorful walls, see the different shapes and designs made out of gum, and even add their own gum to the wall (although it’s not recommended).
However, it’s important to note that Bubblegum Alley is a public space and not specifically designed for children. As such, parents should supervise their children and ensure they are not putting their mouths on the walls or touching anything unsanitary.
10. SeaWorld San Diego
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1764 MI/ 2839 KM SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 32.76414, -117.22629
ADDRESS: 32.76414, -117.22629
This is the last point on my list of best places to visit along the Pacific Coast Highway with kids and family. SeaWorld San Diego is an exciting and educational stop that is perfect for families with kids. It offers a wide range of experiences and attractions that cater to all ages and interests, making it a great destination for a family vacation.
One of the main draws of SeaWorld San Diego is its marine animal exhibits and shows. Kids and families can watch dolphins, sea lions, and killer whales perform amazing tricks and stunts. There are also opportunities to get up close and personal with marine animals through interactive experiences like petting stingrays and feeding sea lions.
SeaWorld San Diego also offers thrilling rides for older kids and adults, such as the Manta roller coaster and the Journey to Atlantis water ride. For younger kids, there are gentler rides like the Sesame Street Bay of Play.
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the PCH in my travel guide, “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all West Coast travelers. Visit 202 places on the PCH with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles motorcycle club and an avid traveler. He has completed seven full journeys along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway on his Harley-Davidson and is passionate about promoting this historic drive to others. Mark has also explored the Alaska Highway and Route 66, and has authored three bestselling travel guides on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places,” “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops,” and “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops.”