There is nothing quite like packing up a bag and exploring our amazing Bay Area home with your favorite people. This summer, why not focus on experiences? Adventures are a wonderful way to bond as a family, keep the kids active, and make memories that will last for a lifetime. If you’re still in the beginning stages of your summer holiday, you’re in luck. This list is the perfect accompaniment to your family-friendly Bay Area season. Really, though, I can vouch for the the following destinations as perfect for exciting, family-friendly Bay Area adventures almost anytime.

STRAWBERRY & CHERRY PICKING

1. SWANTON BERRY FARM
2. GIDZICH RANCH 

HAPPY HOLLOW PARK AND ZOO // SAN JOSE
MAGICAL BRIDGE PLAYGROUND // PALO ALTO
GILROY GARDENS FAMILY THEME PARK // GILROY
MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM // MONTEREY
RANCHO SAN ANTONIO PRESERVE // CUPERTINO
CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY MUSEUM OF SAN JOSE // SAN JOSE
SANTA CRUZ BEACH BOARDWALK // SANTA CRUZ
OAKLAND ZOO // OAKLAND
ROTARY PLAYGARDEN // SAN JOSE
BILLY JONES WILDCAT RAILROAD // LOS GATOS

Oh, and last but not least, not to be missed – UNDERWATER MINI SESSIONS with yours truly! // SAN JOSE

And these are the adventures on my wish list for this summer! Some of these we’ve visited many times before. I can’t wait to return!

SAN FRANCISCO ZOO // SAN FRANCISCO
GOLDEN GATE PARK // SAN FRANCISCO

DISCOVERING CUTE BEACH TOWNS ALONG THE COAST
LAKE TAHOE
CURIODYSSEY // SAN MATEO
ROARING CAMP RAILROADS // FELTON
BRAVO FARMS // KETTLEMAN CITY
WILDER RANCH STATE PARK // SANTA CRUZ

Avoid the dreaded, “I’m bored,” with these fun ideas perfect for the entire family. Be sure to read my Top iPhoneography Tips first, so you can perfectly capture your family’s excitement.

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