Families of all ages will enjoy all that Southern California has to offer. There are zoos and aquariums for the animal lovers and Legoland and Santa Monica Pier have hands-on fun.

Hearst Castle in San Simeon is an extraordinary historic estate that was built by art collector and publisher W.R. Hearst. The estate has 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces and pools. Guests have a choice between five different guided tours at both day and nighttime hours. See the gold encrusted pool, the 7,000-bottle capacity wine cellar, Heart’s private suite or a hidden terrace.

Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey is an aquarium that is home to more than 35,000 animals and plants, including great white sharks, sea otters, penguins, jelly fish, sea horses and giant octopus. Secure a spot on the “morning rounds” and visitors can watch the otter’s feeding time.

The San Diego Zoo is one of the world’s finest and it’s currently home to four giant pandas. The zoo has the average zoo animal but it also has those rare breeds that aren’t at just any city zoo like kangaroos and gila monsters. Don’t forget to stop by the Wild Animal Park, which houses more than 3,500 animals on its 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary.

Imagine a New York City skyline made entirely of Legos. Legoland in Carlsbad, near San Diego, has just that along with several other cities made from about 22 million Lego pieces. There are also amusement rides, shows and an aquarium all with Legos incorporated. This attraction is great for children of all ages.

Santa Monica Pier is a charming pier and the oldest amusement pier in California. It’s old-time charm offers amusements, street performers, a small but interactive aquarium, a fortune teller, dining and shopping. The pier also offers some of the best sunsets the California coast has to offer.