California Archives – On Points With Kids

Visiting Death Valley National Park with kids

April 26, 2024April 19, 2024 by

Death Valley National Park is a natural wonder that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. Over millennia, the vast desert wilderness has been shaped by erosion, extreme temperatures, and mineral deposits that have painted the canyons in colors. During our recent family trip, we had the opportunity to explore the park’s top sights and hiking trails, and the experience was truly remarkable. Let’s review everything you need to keep in mind before your trip to Death Valley National Park.

Top 10 Things to Do in San Juan Bautista, California

May 30, 2023 by

San Juan Bautista, California, is a charming town with early California history landmarks. It is home to one of California’s most scenic and well-preserved Spanish-era missions, Mission San Juan Bautista. Surrounded by Galilan Mountain Range and Flint Hills and located on San Andreas Fault, San Juan Bautista has a nationally registered historic district, a quaint Main Street, and historic adobes. It’s a true gem for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts!

We absolutely fell in love with the little town and had the pleasure of visiting it multiple times throughout the years. We think it is a perfect destination for a day trip from the San Francisco Bay Area and one of the towns not to miss when you are in that part of California. In this blog post, we will highlight the top 10 things to do in San Juan Bautista.

Visiting Pinnacles National Park with kids

April 26, 2024May 20, 2023 by

Pinnacles National Park is the newest National Park in California (a former National Monument), established in 2013. Interestingly, it is one of California’s least visited National Parks (along with Lassen Volcanic National Park, which we visited last year).

The unique rock formations – pinnacles – that dominate Pinnacles National Park were formed 23 million years ago due to volcanic activity and tectonic plate shifts. Today, this National Park spans across 26,000 acres of mostly wilderness.

Undoubtedly, Pinnacles is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for peace and relaxation. Surrounded by untouched nature, you can explore the area by hiking, rock climbing, or walking through the caves.

The Seabird Resort – Destination by Hyatt, the Hotel Review

May 9, 2023May 8, 2023 by

Recently we took a short weekend trip to Southern California and stayed at one of the beachfront Hyatt properties, The Seabird Resort. This hotel is located in Oceanside, right by the historic Oceanside Pier. In addition to its prime location, The Seabird Resort is a relatively new property and welcomed its first guests in 2021.

After hearing glowing reviews in the last two years, we were excited to stay at this new Hyatt property and see for ourselves what this hotel had to offer. Join us as we take a closer look at The Seabird Resort and its amenities.

Carmel Valley Ranch, a Hotel Review, 2023 Edition

March 26, 2023 by

Carmel Valley Ranch is a 500-acre property in Carmel Valley, California. It is located only 15 minutes away from the famous little town of Carmel-by-the-Sea and 20 minutes from Monterey.

The Ranch has a perfect location overlooking the Santa Lucia Mountains and is surrounded by vineyards, lavender fields, and a golf course. Not only it has excellent amenities, such as a saltwater infinity hot tub and a pool, but it also offers a great experience along with guided hikes, complimentary classes and is perfect for a family getaway.

Hounds Tooth Inn, the Hotel Review

January 11, 2023January 10, 2023 by

We were happy to discover this small rustic boutique inn from the Small Luxury Hotels of the World chain called Hounds Tooth Inn. Hounds Tooth Inn is a cozy and stylish property situated on 3.5 acres in the little town of Oakhurst, California. It’s located at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains and is only a short drive from Yosemite National Park.

We have to admit, there are not so many properties that you can stay on points in proximity to National Parks. And we could not miss a chance to stay at one of them.

5 family-friendly Hyatt hotels in California to stay on points

July 6, 2023December 14, 2022 by

California is a popular destination for travelers, with its beautiful beaches, world-class attractions, and diverse landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to the Golden State and are looking for a family-friendly hotel to stay on points, Hyatt has one of the best loyalty programs. There are over 104 Hyatt properties in California to choose from! These properties come in 16 different brands, offering a range of amenities and options to suit your family’s needs and preferences.

We put together a list of some kid-friendly Hyatt hotels in California we stayed at on points and enjoyed with the whole family.

5 things to do in Paso Robles, California

August 25, 2023November 11, 2022 by

The little town of Paso Robles on the Central Coast is a well-kept Californian secret with its fabulous vineyards, outdoor installation with thousands of glowing spheres, fine dining, and so much more.

It is a perfect place for a short family weekend getaway and is only 2.5 hours from San Jose, CA, or 2 hours from Monterey, CA. Let’s take a look at some kid-friendly activities that the whole family would appreciate.

Visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks with kids

August 25, 2023October 28, 2022 by

What comes to your mind when you think about visiting Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks? It should be mountains, canyons, waterfalls, and of course, a forest with magnificent ancient giants, the largest living things on Earth, sequoias.

Representing two of the nine National Parks in California, these parks spread across thousands of acres of land (including 808,000 acres of designated wilderness). Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are very popular tourist destinations and are visited by people from all over the world.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino, the Hotel Review

May 5, 2024September 24, 2022 by

Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is a unique, large and second deepest (1,645 ft / 500 m) freshwater lake in the U.S. With its blue crystal clear waters and famous beaches, surrounded by the National Forest, this area is home to summer water activities and winter sports.

There is no better way to explore Lake Tahoe than to stay on the lakeshore. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is located right on the lake, has a private beach, and offers so much more to have a great time on Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of things to do in the summertime at this resort!