July 2025

Question

Hi all

My husband is currently working in Phoenix, Arizona. Myself and our two boys (15,10) will be travelling over from the UK for a 3 week holiday, although my husband will only have two weeks off work.

I was thinking about a trip for the first two weeks and spending the third week in Phoenix.

My thoughts so far include a week in Mexico, a week in San Diego, a cruise from San Diego or flying into Las Vegas, hiring an RV and travelling to San Francisco, via Yosemite.

Any thoughts or opinions? Any better options?

Any help would be appreciated.

Answer

For a three-week trip to California with two boys (ages 10 and 15) and coordinating with your husband’s schedule in Phoenix, there are several fun and practical options. Since you have flexibility in the first two weeks before joining your husband in Phoenix, you can balance adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation.

Here are some possible itineraries and suggestions:

Option 1: Mexico + San Diego + Phoenix
- Spend the first week in Mexico – perhaps Puerto Vallarta or Cancun – for beaches, water activities, and family-friendly resorts.
- Week two in San Diego – explore the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, La Jolla, Balboa Park museums, and possibly a day trip to Legoland.
- Week three in Phoenix – relax and enjoy local attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden, Arizona Science Center, or a short day trip to Sedona.
Option 2: San Diego + Cruise + Phoenix
- Week one: Explore San Diego and nearby beaches, taking your time with zoo visits, kayak tours, and the USS Midway Museum.
- Week two: Embark on a short cruise from San Diego along the Mexican Riviera or to Catalina Island, which can be fun for the kids and gives a break from daily travel logistics.
- Week three: Phoenix with your husband, relaxing and exploring local attractions.
Option 3: Las Vegas → RV Road Trip → San Francisco via Yosemite
- Fly into Las Vegas, spend 1–2 days exploring family-friendly attractions like the Bellagio Fountains and nearby Red Rock Canyon.
- Rent an RV and drive toward San Francisco, stopping along the way at Yosemite National Park for scenic drives and short walks, Lake Tahoe for outdoor activities, and possibly Monterey/Carmel for coastal views.
- This offers flexibility, adventure, and unique experiences, though it involves more driving and planning for RV campsites.
- End in San Francisco with classic sights: Golden Gate, Alcatraz (optional), Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown before heading to Phoenix.

Other considerations:

Weather: July in California can be hot inland (e.g., Phoenix, Las Vegas, Yosemite Valley), so plan early morning or late afternoon activities.
Travel fatigue: With younger children, consider balancing high-activity days with relaxing days at the beach or pool.
RV vs hotels: An RV trip can be fun and adventurous, but requires comfort with driving, parking, and campsite logistics. Hotels/resorts offer more convenience, especially with limited time.
Distance: Flying into Phoenix or San Diego and then doing a road trip may save travel time versus starting in Las Vegas.

Recommendation:

If your kids enjoy adventure and novelty, an RV road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco via Yosemite can be memorable.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace with easier logistics, the Mexico + San Diego + Phoenix itinerary is straightforward and combines beach, city, and family attractions.
For a balance of sightseeing and a unique experience without overtaxing the family, consider San Diego + short cruise + Phoenix.

All options give a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and relaxation, so your choice depends on how active you want the first two weeks to be versus having downtime before joining your husband in Phoenix.