Curator’s statement
Southern California has beautiful weather all year-round. When I visit with my kids, we take advantage of the outdoors to get some energy out. Here are some of our favorite spots to check out!
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Playgrounds to visit in Southern California
Below are playgrounds that have the wow factor for kids. You may even be able to skip the theme parks, depending on their age, and spend the day at one of these spots instead!
Newport Beach - Marina Park Playground
On the harbor, so no waves
Red and white lighthouse with a tunnel slide — you can’t miss it
Bathrooms onsite
Outdoor showers to rinse off the sand
Climbing structures
Newport Beach- Balboa Peninsula Park
Playground is on the beach
Large net climbing structure
Swings for babies
Kids will be happy if you bring a bucket and shovel so they can dig in the sand
Walking distance to Balboa Pier with small rides and eateries
Irvine - Adventure Playground
Huge climbing play structure and slides
Sand pit with lots of trucks for digging
Tree House
Lifesize Legos
Plenty of parking
Bathrooms onsite
Cerritos - Heritage Park
Looks like Colonial Boston: Kids explore the American Revolution through colonial village scenes with slides, jungle gyms and a ropes course. The main area is set up on an island with a separate standard playground on the mainland.
Travel Advisor
Grace Grenker
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Jessica Leary's guide, 4 Days on the Southern California Coast.