Caz and Craig Makepeace of Y Travel Blog describe their vacation in Southern California as “adventure, relaxation, and enjoying time together in the sunshine and beautiful scenery.”
As travel bloggers, the couple have garnered a massive following over the last eight years thanks to their family-on-the-go lifestyle. With the belief that anyone can travel, the couple have raised their daughters, Kalyra and Savannah, while exploring the world. On their trip through the Channel Islands, Ventura County, Orange County, and San Diego, the family experienced an unforgettable combination of ocean adventure and breezy, beachy Kidifornia fun.
1. Speaking from a parent’s perspective, what was the highlight of your trip in California?
Our sea cave kayaking adventure [with Island Packers] in Channel Islands National Park. It's incredibly beautiful, we had the thrill of kayaking through caves and dark caverns and tight spaces. We had sea lions pop up beside us in the canoe, snorkeled amongst the kelp forest, and saw pod of at least 100 dolphins on the boat ride back to the mainland. These experiences don't happen every day and they stay as memories forever.
2. What was your children’s top highlight of the trip?
Our youngest daughter, Savannah, loved bike riding along the San Diego boardwalk. The eclectic vibe we experienced along the way was definitely her style. She kept calling out, "I love San Diego," and whoop-whooping! Our eldest, Kalyra, loved the kayaking at Channel Islands National Park. They both also really loved the Kimpton Shorebreak Hotel in Huntington Beach. Says Savannah, "They’ve created a playground for kids in an adult land." It’s the perfect place to stay on a Kidifornia adventure!
3. Which destination or attraction surprised you the most?
Huntington Beach in Orange County. We all fell in love with this beach town. Huntington has the laid back surf vibe we love, but also has a touch of sophistication. The beach is really clean and is perfect for a fun family day out: surfing, volleyball nets, boardwalk, shopping, and they even have fire pits to roast s'mores at night on the beach. How cool is that?
4. Which one picture best demonstrates your family’s adventure in "Kidifornia"?
I think this one captures the essence of our family trip, which was all about adventure, relaxation, and enjoying time together in the sunshine and beautiful scenery. In this photo, my daughter and I are riding along the boardwalk in San Diego. She was so happy and carefree.
5. What is your best piece of advice to families looking to experience Kidifornia?
Kidifornia has so many incredible opportunities for you to connect with your children and share priceless moments. Make sunset a nightly event. You're in California; it is an event. Grab your beach towel and an ice cream and thank the setting sun for another glorious day spent adventuring with those you love most.
6. What California destination is next up on your bucket list, and why?
Our ultimate bucket list for California though is to go hiking through the ancient redwood forests north of San Francisco [in Humboldt County]. As tree huggers, I don't think there would be a better tree to hug. Lucky there are four of us to link arms with!
7. Can you share your best tips for a family vacation or road trip?
Go slow. Make it less about checking off as many experiences or destinations you can, and focus on spending quality time in a few regions. You'll make far better memories and everyone will be happier and full of adventure.