The Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Resorts in Orange County

Orange County is a top family vacation destination, home to world-famous attractions like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and miles of scenic beaches. Whether your family is looking for a Disney adventure, a beachside retreat, or outdoor fun, Orange County offers plenty of family-friendly accommodations to make your stay both comfortable and exciting.

To help you find the perfect place to stay, we’ve compiled a list of the best family-friendly hotels and resorts in the area. Plus, for parents who need a night out, Destination Sitters provides trusted babysitting services right in your hotel or vacation rental.

Here’s a variety of exceptional hotels designed to cater to both parents and children. Here are some top family-friendly hotels in the area, each providing unique amenities to ensure a memorable stay:

Perched on a coastal bluff in Laguna Beach, Montage Laguna Beach combines luxury with family-friendly amenities, offering panoramic ocean views and a plethora of activities for all ages.

Family-Friendly Highlights

• Paintbox Children’s Program: Designed for children aged 5 to 12, Paintbox offers thematically planned days filled with arts and crafts, games, and outdoor adventures at the pool, beach, and tide pools. Half-day and full-day sessions are available.
• Multiple Pools: The resort features four saline pools, including a central mosaic-tiled pool, a shallow children’s pool ideal for young kids, an adults-only spa pool, and a hot tub.
• Beach Access and Activities: Families can explore the easily accessible tide pools located directly in front of the main beach stairs, offering educational and fun experiences for children of all ages.
• Family-Friendly Dining: On-site restaurants like The Loft provide diverse menus with options catering to both adults and children, ensuring enjoyable dining experiences for the whole family.

Located in Newport Coast, The Resort at Pelican Hill offers a blend of luxury and family-oriented activities amidst stunning Mediterranean-inspired architecture and panoramic ocean views.

Family-Friendly Highlights

• Camp Pelican: This children’s club provides engaging activities for kids, including arts and crafts, games, and exploration of the resort’s expansive grounds under the supervision of well-trained counselors.
• Coliseum Pool and Children’s Pool: Families can enjoy the iconic Coliseum Pool, while children have access to a dedicated pool area featuring ocean views, child-sized chaise lounges, a bubble jet fountain, and sandy play areas.
• Family Activities: The resort offers family-friendly nature hikes, e-bike itineraries, and workshops dedicated to art, photography, and gardening, encouraging exploration and creativity for all ages.
• Spacious Villas: Fully furnished two, three, and four-bedroom villas with full kitchens and expansive terraces provide the comforts of home, ideal for families seeking ample space and privacy.

For families planning to visit Disneyland, staying at one of the on-site hotels enhances the magical experience with exclusive benefits and themed accommodations.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

• Direct Park Access: This Craftsman-style hotel offers a private entrance to Disney California Adventure Park, allowing convenient access for families.
• Children’s Activities: The hotel provides a variety of activities, including storytelling at the Grand Fireplace and Disney character dining experiences.
• Multiple Pools: Families can enjoy themed pools with water slides and cabanas, perfect for relaxation and play.

Disneyland Hotel

• Themed Rooms: Experience the magic with rooms that feature classic Disney décor and magical touches, immersing families in the Disney experience.
• Monorail Waterslides: The hotel boasts pools with monorail-themed waterslides, providing fun and excitement for children of all ages.
• Character Dining: Enjoy meals with beloved Disney characters at on-site restaurants, creating memorable experiences for the whole family.

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel

• Beach-Themed Ambiance: This hotel offers a casual, beach-inspired atmosphere with Disney touches, providing a laid-back environment for families.
• Rooftop Pool: The rooftop pool area features a waterslide and offers a great spot for families to relax and enjoy the sun.
• Proximity to Parks: Located within walking distance to the Disneyland Resort theme parks, making it convenient for families to access the attractions.

This resort combines Mediterranean elegance with modern amenities, offering families a luxurious stay with direct access to the pristine beaches of Huntington Beach.

Family-Friendly Highlights

• Slyders Water Playground: A water playground featuring slides, wading pools, and a lagoon, providing endless fun for kids.
• Camp Hyatt: An engaging kids’ club offering activities like arts and crafts, games, and beach adventures under professional supervision.
• Bike and Surfboard Rentals: Families can rent equipment to explore the beach and enjoy the surf, making the most of the coastal location.
• Multiple Dining Options: On-site restaurants cater to all tastes, with special kids’ menus and casual dining settings perfect for family meals.

Situated along the Pacific Coast Highway, The Waterfront Beach Resort offers stunning ocean views and a host of amenities tailored for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Family-Friendly Highlights

• Driftwood Beach Club: A family-oriented pool area featuring waterslides, cabanas, and a fire pit for evening s’mores.
• Proximity to Attractions: The resort is conveniently located near popular destinations like Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm, making day trips effortless.
• Seasonal Kids’ Programs: Organized activities and events during peak seasons keep children entertained and engaged.
• Spacious Suites: Family suites offer ample space with separate living areas and bunk beds for kids, ensuring comfort for the whole family

Montage Laguna Beach – An Elegant Beachfront Escape

A luxurious resort with kid-friendly programs in a stunning coastal setting.

✔ Mosaic Pool overlooking the ocean
✔ Children’s Paintbox Program with supervised activities
✔ Beachfront access with tide-pooling adventures
✔ Spa & wellness programs for parents

🏨 Where: 30801 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA

📍 Nearby Attractions: Main Beach, Heisler Park, Laguna Art Museum

The Resort at Pelican Hill – A Coastal Luxury Retreat

A high-end, family-friendly resort with breathtaking ocean views and spacious accommodations.

✔ Sprawling bungalows & villas for families
✔ Children’s activities & golf programs
✔ Relaxing family pool with cabanas
✔ Close to Crystal Cove State Park & Newport Beach

🏨 Where: 22701 S Pelican Hill Rd, Newport Coast, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Newport Beach, Crystal Cove State Park, Fashion Island

Disneyland Hotel – The Ultimate Disney Experience

For families visiting Disneyland, nothing beats staying at the Disneyland Hotel, where the magic continues long after you leave the park. With themed rooms, monorail slides, and character dining, this hotel is a dream come true for young Disney fans.

✔ Themed rooms featuring Mickey & Disney nostalgia
✔ Monorail waterslides & a kid-friendly pool area
✔ Character dining at Goofy’s Kitchen
✔ Early park entry for hotel guests

🏨 Where: 1150 Magic Way, Anaheim, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney

 Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – A Luxury Disney Escape

A luxurious Disney hotel with exclusive entrance to Disney California Adventure Park.

✔ Direct entrance to Disney California Adventure
✔ Spacious suites with magical Disney décor
✔ Multiple pools, waterslides & a themed spa
✔ Character dining experiences available

🏨 Where: 1600 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney

JW Marriott Anaheim Resort – A Stylish & Family-Friendly Stay

A modern and upscale luxury hotel within minutes of Disneyland.

✔ Rooftop fireworks viewing deck
✔ Spacious suites perfect for families
✔ Outdoor pool & garden area for kids
✔ Walking distance to Disneyland & shopping centers

🏨 Where: 1775 S Clementine St, Anaheim, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk, Honda Center

The Westin Anaheim Resort – A Premium Family Resort

A sophisticated family-friendly hotel near Disneyland, with fantastic amenities.

✔ Spacious family suites with Disney views
✔ Outdoor pool with a kids’ splash area
✔ Rooftop lounge for fireworks viewing
✔ Complimentary theme park shuttle

🏨 Where: 1030 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Angel Stadium, Anaheim Convention Center

Great Wolf Lodge – A Water Park & Hotel in One

If your kids love water parks, then Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect place to stay. This indoor water park resort features thrilling slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and interactive activities for kids of all ages.

✔ Massive indoor water park included with your stay
✔ Kid-friendly themed suites (Wolf Den & KidCabin Suites)
✔ MagiQuest interactive adventure game
✔ Storytime, dance parties & character meet-and-greets

🏨 Where: 12681 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Anaheim Packing District

JW Marriott Anaheim Resort – A Stylish & Family-Friendly Stay

A modern and upscale luxury hotel within minutes of Disneyland.

✔ Rooftop fireworks viewing deck
✔ Spacious suites perfect for families
✔ Outdoor pool & garden area for kids
✔ Walking distance to Disneyland & shopping centers

🏨 Where: 1775 S Clementine St, Anaheim, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk, Honda Center

The Westin Anaheim Resort – A Premium Family Resort

A sophisticated family-friendly hotel near Disneyland, with fantastic amenities.

✔ Spacious family suites with Disney views
✔ Outdoor pool with a kids’ splash area
✔ Rooftop lounge for fireworks viewing
✔ Complimentary theme park shuttle

🏨 Where: 1030 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Angel Stadium, Anaheim Convention Center

Great Wolf Lodge – A Water Park & Hotel in One

If your kids love water parks, then Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect place to stay. This indoor water park resort features thrilling slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and interactive activities for kids of all ages.

✔ Massive indoor water park included with your stay
✔ Kid-friendly themed suites (Wolf Den & KidCabin Suites)
✔ MagiQuest interactive adventure game
✔ Storytime, dance parties & character meet-and-greets

🏨 Where: 12681 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA
📍 Nearby Attractions: Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Anaheim Packing District

While these resorts offer extensive family-oriented amenities, there may be times when parents seek personal time to enjoy adult-focused activities. Destination Sitters provides professional, fully screened babysitting services directly to your hotel room, ensuring your children are cared for in a safe and engaging environment. Their rigorous screening process includes background and reference checks, CPR and First Aid certifications, and drug testing, offering peace of mind for parents.

Choosing the right accommodation is pivotal for a memorable family vacation. These Orange County resorts, complemented by services like Destination Sitters, ensure that both parents and children have an unforgettable experience.

📍 Book a hotel babysitter today at Destination Sitters.

Destination Sitters: Trusted Babysitting Services in Orange County

👶 Why Choose Destination Sitters?
✔ CPR-certified, background-checked, and reference-verified babysitters
✔ Sitters bring books, toys, and games to keep kids entertained
✔ Available at hotels, vacation rentals, theme parks & special events
✔ Multilingual sitters available upon request

📍 Also Available in Nearby Cities:
✔ Los Angeles
✔ San Diego
✔ Palm Springs
✔ San Francisco

With kid-friendly resorts, world-famous attractions, and expert babysitting services, Orange County is a fantastic family vacation destination!