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Diverse and thoughtful travel guides that speak to your family’s values

Bay Area
Beaches & Sun

A Guide to Tide Pooling with Kids in the Bay Area

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Bay Area
Beaches & Sun

A Guide to Tide Pooling with Kids in the Bay Area

Spotting sea life in coastal tide pools have been our family's favorite activities! Here's how to get in on the fun.

California
International
Travel Tips

BBA’s Top Blogs of 2024

Angelica, BBA Co-Founder

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January 13, 2025

Europe

A Portugal Family Road Trip: 14-Day Itinerary of Kid-Friendly Wonders and Cultural Delights!

Discover the ultimate family adventure in Portugal with our two-week itinerary.

Family Road Trip: Discovering Alcácer do Sal – A Kid-Friendly Pit Stop on the Way to Lisbon

Take the ultimate Portugal road trip with your kids and stop in Alcácer do Sal on your way to the Algarve.

Bay Area

A Guide to Tide Pooling with Kids in the Bay Area

Spotting sea life in coastal tide pools have been our family’s favorite activities! Here’s how to get in on the fun.

Asia

Traveling Tokyo with Kids: 12 Family-Friendly Activities

Our family had so much fun in Japan’s capital–here’s what we recommend!

Indoor Activities

The Best Kid-Friendly Monuments and Museums to Visit in Washington, D.C.

Visit these sites in D.C. to get the most out of your trip with your young family.

Bay Area

How to Visit the Oakland Zoo with Kids – 8 Tips for Surviving in the Wild

Our kids love the rides, gondola, and animals, of course!

City

Trip Recap: 5 Days in New Orleans with Our 10-Month-Old Baby

Our family’s first visit to New Orleans was full of food, culture, and family time.

Guardian bike in purple along a fence

Balance Biking

Guardian Bikes for Kids: The Ultimate Review for Safe and Fun Riding

Find out why Guardian Bikes help your kids ride safer and better!

An image of Chinook Winds Casino - a beachfront building on the Lincoln City coast in Oregon with cloudy skies

Beaches & Sun

Family Guide to Chinook Winds Casino Resort: The Best Kid-Friendly Stay in Lincoln City, Oregon (Indigenous-Owned!)

Chinook Winds Casino Resort has an arcade, pool, childcare, and beach access – perfect family escape in the Pacific Northwest.

2025-26 Gift Guide for Families Who Love to Travel

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may receive a small commission if you book travel or make purchases using these links. Whether or not you celebrate the holidays, now is the perfect

Snow Fun

How to See the Northern Lights with Kids in Fairbanks, Alaska

Here’s what you need to know about chasing the aurora borealis with your fam!

California Coast

How to Visit Watsonville – Top 8 Kid-Friendly and Fun Activities

Fruit-picking, hiking, sculpture gardens, parks, beaches…what more could you ask for?

Europe

A Family Trip to Portugal: 10 Days with Kids and Grandparents

Take your extended family on an epic family trip to beautiful ruins, castles, and gardens!

Bay Area

Explore Berkeley’s Tilden Regional Park with Toddlers – Trains, Farm Animals, and an Amazing Carousel

In the Eastern Foothills of Berkeley you’ll find a child (and adult) nature paradise.

California Coast

A Complete Guide to Exploring Point Reyes Peninsula with Kids in California

The Point Reyes Peninsula is a beautiful outdoor playground full of beaches, history, and good food. Bring the kids!

California Coast

How to Do a 5-Day Road Trip Through the Avenue of the Giants with Kids

The 31-mile-long scenic drive makes for a majestic trip through the redwoods.

A child standing on top of a map of the South Island of New Zealand

Oceania

South Island, New Zealand: A Memorable 2-Week Itinerary with a Toddler in Tow

Discover the ultimate family adventure in New Zealand’s South Island with our two-week itinerary.

A pumpkin on a green tractor at Three Nunns Farm in Brentwood, CA

Bay Area

Your Guide to Three Nunns Farm Pumpkin Patch with Kids in Brentwood, California

Roller coasters, slides, and pumpkins – check out Three Nunns Farm this year.

A family walking through the Smith Family Farm pumpkin patch in Brentwood CA

Bay Area

How to Visit Smith Family Farm – the Best Pumpkin Patch in the Bay Area

Live music, farm animals, and pumpkins – Smith Family Farm’s pumpkin patch is the best in town.

United States

Where to Eat in Washington, D.C. with Kids

Favorite D.C. restaurants from a mom and former resident!

Beaches & Sun

How to Spend an Exciting Weekend in Watsonville with your Kids

Here are kid-friendly activities in one of Japan’s loveliest big cities.

Balance Biking

How to Choose the Best Balance Bike – woom 1 vs. Strider vs. Hornit AIRO

Your guide to finding the best balance bike for your child and your wallet.

Hornit AIRO 12″ Balance Bike Review – A Great First Bike for Toddlers

AIRO Balance Bike 12” review – safe, lightweight, and perfect for toddlers.

California

BBA’s Top Blogs of 2024

From Portugal to Japan, here are BBA’s most-viewed blogs of 2024!

A Sweet Winter Day-trip to Arashiyama with Kids: Monkey Park, Bamboo Forests, and Cute Cafes

We had one short day in Arashiyama but our family made the most of it!

Visiting Chena Hot Springs with Kids in Fairbanks, Alaska

Chena Hot Springs has kid-safe hot springs in freezing outdoor temperatures.

Snow Fun

How to See the Northern Lights at Borealis Basecamp in Fairbanks, Alaska with Kids

Almost guaranteed to see the Northern Lights from inside a warm igloo with your kids.

Snow Fun

Family-Friendly Winter Activities at Borealis Basecamp for Kids

Reindeer, dog sledding, Northern Lights – Borealis Basecamp makes your kids’ winter dreams come true.

Holiday Travel Gifts from Indigenous-Owned Brands for the Whole Family

Discover 5 top Indigenous-owned brands for perfect holiday gifts for travel lovers and kids.

Europe

How to Visit Sintra with Kids – Family-Friendly Adventures in Portugal

Sintra is a historic town full of castles and magic. Here’s how to bring your kids along!

Bay Area

Top 8 Family-Friendly Campgrounds Within 1.5 Hours of the San Francisco Bay Area

Our family-favorite campsites – less than 2 hours from the San Francisco Bay Area.

City

Visiting Washington, D.C. with Kids and Extended Family

Here are our recs for a 5-night trip to the U.S. Capitol!

Nature + City: Two Days Traveling Kyoto with Kids and Family

Here are kid-friendly activities in one of Japan’s loveliest big cities.

Balance Biking

woom Bikes for Toddlers: The Perfect Start to Cycling

Find out why woom Bikes are help your kids gain confidence to ride!

Teach Your Kid How to Ride a Bike in a Day (woom 3 Bike Review)

Get your kid on a pedal bike in one day with the woom bike 3. See our review and best plan of action here.

One Glorious Day in Scenic Ninh Binh with Family

Take a day-trip from Hanoi to explore the wondrous natural beauty of Vietnam’s former capital!

Asia

Family-Friendly Tokyo Itinerary: 3, 5, or 7 Days in Japan’s Capital City

Carefully crafted itinerary options based on our family’s recent visit to Tokyo.

Wondrous Wildlife: How to Whale-Watch in Monterey with Your Family

Take your family on this memorable adventure to see whales, dolphins, otters, seals, jellyfish, and more!

Best & BIPOC-owned U-Pick Farms in Brentwood for Kids – One Hour Away from the East Bay

Your guide to our favorite U-Pick farms for cherries, peaches, strawberries, and pumpkins this summer, only a one-hour drive from the SF East Bay Area.

Europe

Two Days in Porto with Kids, a Hub for Culture and Family Fun

Here are all of our favorite things to do with a toddler in Porto, Portugal.

How Not to Visit the Bahamas on a Disney Cruise With Your Family

While we were diverted from our intended destination, at least we made memories with our group of 18!

Camping

How to Have Fun on the Russian River at Casini Ranch Family Campground with kids

Casini Ranch Family Campground makes camping easy for any family.

Brave the wind – Doran Beach Campground in Bodega Bay is Great for Kids

Get exclusive beach access at Doran Beach Campground with your family.

How to Visit Santa Rosa with Kids – Breweries, Hiking, and the Children’s Museum of Sonoma

Only an hour away from the East Bay is a warm and kid-friendly destination!

Why Arnold Is The Perfect Basecamp For Winter Exploration In The Sierras With Kids

Arnold is the perfect basecamp for winter exploration in the Sierras.

Central California

Bear Valley – An Easy Ski and Sled Adventure for Kids in California

Bear Valley is the place to take your family skiing in Northern California.

Central California

How to Visit Calaveras Big Trees State Park in Winter with Kids

The giant sequoias are waiting for your family in the snow.

Canada

Falling for Vancouver – A City Full of Family-Friendly Adventures

Discover where to eat, sleep, and play in Vancouver.

Canada

Top 6 things to do in the Lonsdale District, Vancouver with Kids: A Family-Friendly Haven

Discover the perfect family retreat in Lonsdale, Vancouver!

Canada

Capilano Kids Adventure: A Family-Friendly Guide to Exploring the Suspension Bridge in Vancouver

Grouse Mountain has gondola rides, hikes, animal exhibits, and more to explore in Vancouver.

Canada

Ultimate Guide: Exploring Grouse Mountain with Kids in Vancouver – An Adventurous Experience!

Grouse Mountain has gondola rides, hikes, animal exhibits, and more to explore in Vancouver.

About Us

BBA’s Top Blogs of 2023

From airline reviews to multi-family trip recaps, here are BBA’s most-viewed blogs of 2023!

Aveiro, Portugal: The Best Family Day Trip from Porto

Aviero is a picturesque city just outside of Porto. It is a must-see for all families visiting Portugal.

A Family-Friendly Guide to Mexico City: Top 10 Activities with Sample Itineraries

Everything we wish we knew about visiting Mexico’s capital with kids!

8 Tips for Visiting Glowfari with Kids at the Oakland Zoo this Winter Season

This seasonal nighttime exhibit features bright animal lanterns that are larger-than-life and great for the whole family!

Europe

Top 5 Kid-Friendly Adventures in Caldas da Rainha, Portugal

Caldas da Rainha is a picturesque city just outside of Lisbon. It is a must-see for all families visiting Portugal.

Europe

How to Visit the Enchanting City of Óbidos, Portugal with Kids

Obidos is a picturesque city just outside of Lisbon. It is a must-see for all families visiting Portugal.

Pier, Playground, and Coastal Trails: How to Experience Pacifica with Kids

This little coastal gem just south of San Francisco is a wonderful place to unwind.

California Coast

Exploring the Wonders of Point Reyes National Seashore with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to California’s Coastal Paradise

Point Reyes National Seashore is a family-friendly California coastal paradise, full of beaches, hikes, and wildlife.

Cargo Biking

Tips to Riding a Cargo Bike in Winter with Kids

Riding a cargo bike in the winter is doable with the right gear.

Hiking

Kaikōura Family Adventures: A Guide to Fun and Exploration in New Zealand

Kaikoura means “eat crayfish,” so pack up the kids and get ready for some seafood adventures!

Oceania

Sip and Play: Discovering Kid-Friendly Wineries in Blenheim, New Zealand

Blenheim, New Zealand is known for it’s wineries – some are family-friendly too!

Antiracist travel guide For Families

Download our free Antiracist Travel with Kids Tip Sheet with reflective exercises and practical tools for conscious exploration.

Your first step to inclusive travel starts now!

Exploring Picton Waitohi, New Zealand: 4 Kid-Friendly Activities for Unforgettable Family Adventures

Picton Waitohi on the South Island of New Zealand is full of kid-friendly fun with a splash pad, playgrounds, and ocean views.

Hiking

Nelson Tasman Delights: A Kid-Friendly Journey to New Zealand’s Sun-Drenched Gem

Nelson Tasman is full of kid-friendly fun with an art scene, a lighthouse, a national park, lakes, and playgrounds. Read on!

Southern California

Disneyland Dining Hacks: How to Bring Kid-Friendly Food for Picky Eaters into the Park

You don’t have to sneak your food into Disneyland. Here’s what to bring and how to bring it into the park.

California

Best Family-Friendly Autumn Vacation Destinations

Here are our favorite destinations for travel September through November.

2023 Coron Itinerary & Tour Review: 4-day/3-night Family Friendly Guided Tour

Here’s how our family (of 27!) spent four nights in beautiful Coron and the Calamianes Islands, organized by Calamian Islands Travel & Tours.

Siem Reap Family-Friendly Hotel Review: Eightfold Urban Resort

Upgrade your Siem Reap itinerary with a stay at this phenomenal family-friendly oasis.

Bay Area

Alameda Adventures: 5 Kid-Friendly Activities for Fun-Filled Family Days

Alameda island is located in the San Francisco Bay Area and is a family-friendly destination for visitors near and far.

About Us

BBA Turns 2!

Reflections from our second year of blogging.

Beaches & Sun

Winter Wonderland: 4 Kid-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in the Algarve, Portugal

Some people only visit the Algarve in Portugal with their families in the summer – not us! Winter is still beach time.

Asia

Where to Eat in Taipei with Kids

Recommendations from a Bay Area-based foodie and mama!

Asia

What to Do in Taipei with Kids

Check out these family-friendly activities and hotel recommendations in Taipei, Taiwan.

Europe

Sip and Smile: Port Wine Tasting in Gaia, Portugal with Family-Friendly Twists

In addition to port wine-tasting for the adults, enjoy some nice strolls and cable car rides in Porto’s neighbor to the south.

How To

Adopting a Kitten with Kids: 7 Must-Know Tips for a Purr-fect Family Addition

How to bring a new kitten into your home with a baby, toddler, or preschooler.

Exploring Sintra’s Moorish Castle with Kids: A Family Adventure Amidst Ancient Wonders

Sintra is home to many castles in Portugal, including this 10th century castle.

Trip Recap: Visiting Popo’s Final Resting Place in Taiwan with My Six-Year-Old

Reflections from my two-week solo-parenting trip to Taiwan with my elder daughter.

Europe

Family Adventure at Pena Palace in Sintra: Exploring Portugal’s Fairytale Castle with Kids

Sintra is home to many castles in Portugal. Pena Palace can be a challenge with young kids.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: 7 Tips for a Perfect Day Out with Little Kids

The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is crazy and fun with kids.

Best Family-Friendly Summer Vacation Destinations – International Edition

Consider these international destinations for your family’s next summer trip!

Why Quinta da Regaleira is the Best Castle in Sintra for Kids

Sintra is home to many castles in Portugal. Quinta da Regaleira is my favorite for kids.

Unexpected Blessing: Our Unplanned Free Birth in Hawaii

I was not expecting a free birth. My second home birth went very fast.

Top 10 Unique and Toddler-Friendly Activities for Your Family Trip to O‘ahu

After multiple trips to O‘ahu with our toddler, here are our favorite activities!

California Home Sweet Home: Our Fast and Amazing Water Birth Experience

I gave birth in a tub in my living room with the help of a midwife and my family, and with my toddler there!

Where to Eat with Kids in Mexico City

Here are our favorite kid-friendly restaurants in Mexico’s capital!

Bodega Bay with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to Coastal Fun

Enjoy long, wind-swept beaches, goats, and all the crab you could eat!

36 Hours in Osaka: What My 5-Year-Old and I Did in the Nation’s Kitchen

We enjoyed a short and sweet visit to one of Japan’s former capital cities.

Find Magic Along the Bridgeview Troll Trail Hike in Oakland with your Kids

This kid-friendly hike in Oakland is full of handmade troll magic for your family.

California Coast

Felton Family Fun: Kid-Friendly Activities to Explore in This Charming Town

Felton has hiking, Roaring Camp Railroads steam trains, and a cool Covered Bridge.

Camping Among Giants: A Family Adventure at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park with Kids

Take your family camping at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for hikes, big trees, and access to Santa Cruz.

Hiking

Helicopter Rides and Hiking in Franz Josef Waiau New Zealand with a Toddler

Franz Josef has glaciers, helicopter rides, beaches, and much more. Read on!

Central California

California’s Natural Wonders: Exploring Calaveras Big Trees State Park in Arnold with Kids

The park is home to the nearest grove of sequoia trees to the SF Bay Area and is a fun, family-friendly place to get outdoors year-round.

Oh, Deer! A Serene, Family-Friendly Day-Trip to Nara, Japan for Wakakusa Yamayaki

Nara, Japan is a quaint town with parks, deer, delicious eats, and an annual festival that features a burning mountain.

Central California

Sip, Savor, and Play: Wine Tasting in Murphys with Kids – A Family-Friendly Experience

Murphys is a historic town in the Sierras and covered in wineries. Some are fun enough to bring the kids along!

Central California

How to Visit Murphys with Kids – Top 3 Fun and Family-Friendly Activities

A historic gold mining town in the Sierra Mountains with wine tasting, hiking, and a cute downtown.

Central California

Main Street Magic: Family-Friendly Activities in Murphys, California – A Kid’s Guide to Fun

Downtown Murphys has one street with a playground, wineries, and great food!

Wonderful Wānaka: A Kid-Friendly Trip to New Zealand’s Adventure Playground

Everyone goes to Lake Wānaka for one thing – to see the “Wānaka Tree.”

Review: Why Budget-friendly Zipair is Our Family’s Preferred Way to Fly to Tokyo

While they nickel-and-dime you every chance they get, Zipair is a no-frills and affordable option to travel to Tokyo.

See the Big Trees of the Avenue of the Giants with Kids

The Avenue of the Giants is THE place to see redwoods in CA.

See The Willits Arch And More With Your Little Kids On Your Way To The Redwoods

Willits, California is a great stopping point on your way to the redwoods.

How to Visit Hohokam Stadium and see the Oakland Athletics at Spring Training with your Kids

Here’s why you might consider visiting Arizona to catch a bit of Spring Training and more!

Outdoors

How to Visit Phoenix with your Kids – Where to Eat & Play

Phoenix, Arizona offers fun kid-friendly breweries, hiking, cactus gardens, and more.

How to Spend a Weekend in Mariposa With Extended Family

Nestled in the shadow of Yosemite National Park and all that goes with it is the quaint Gold Rush town of Mariposa.

11 Black-Owned Eateries to Support During Oakland Restaurant Week 2023, and Beyond

Oakland Restaurant Week is March 16-26, 2023—happy eating!

POC-Owned Restaurants to Support During Alameda Restaurant Week and Beyond

Add these kid-friendly restaurants to your bucket list!

How to take your Little Kids to Children’s Fairyland in Oakland this Year

Visit the classic Children’s Fairyland in the heart of Oakland’s Lake Merritt District.

Our Favorite Black-Owned Restaurants in the East Bay and San Francisco

Visit these restaurants to celebrate Black History Month and beyond!

How to Spend a Day in Ferndale with your Kids – A Victorian Village on the Lost Coast

Walking through Ferndale makes you feel like you’re walking through history-and not without its challenges.

Go to Shelter Cove & Cape Mendocino Lighthouse with your Kids – the Gateway to the Lost Coast!

Shelter Cove, located on the Northern California Coast, is very – well – sheltered.

Bay Area

How to Visit Chabot Space and Science Center with your Toddlers and Preschoolers

Drive to the Oakland hills build those STEM skills for your family.

Our Favorite POC-Owned Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Alameda

Add these kid-friendly restaurants to your bucket list!

Te Anau Treasures: A Perfect Day with Your Toddler in New Zealand’s Gateway to Fiordland

Te Anau is the “gateway to Fiordland” in the South Island of New Zealand.

Bay Area

How to Visit Columbia Historic State Park in California with Kids

Columbia State Historic Park is full of gold rush history. Part cosplay, part living museum, part small town, come and make candles and drink sarsaparilla with your kids!

What It Was Like to Ride a Hot Air Balloon with My Kid and Family

Two words: SO FUN! Read about our family’s first-ever hot air balloon ride.

Olema Campground is the Best Last-Minute Campground to Book in the Bay Area with Kids

Olema Campground near Pt. Reyes Station is awesome and often has space when you’re booking last minute!

What to do in Alameda Point with your Kids

Alameda Point is located on the west end of the island of Alameda and full of kid-fun with epic views of the San Francisco city skyline.

International

Smooth Sailing: Is the Doubtful Sound Cruise Suitable for Toddlers?

I took my toddler on the Doubtful Sound overnight cruise and I’m not sure it was a good idea. Here are a few things to consider.

Guide to Taking your Toddler on the Doubtful Sound Cruise in New Zealand

The Doubtful Sound is probably as remote as you’re ever going to get – on a boat, in the far south-west corner of NZ…with a kid?

Visit Otago – How to Explore the Adventure Capital of New Zealand with your Kids

Otago is the self-proclaimed “Adventure Capital of the World” and is a good place to visit for adventurous families as well.

International

Queenstown with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to Adventure in New Zealand’s Playground

Queenstown is known as “Adventure Capital of the World” and is a good place to visit for adventurous families as well.

What My Family’s First Hot Air Balloon Ride Taught Me About Supporting My Child

Our hot air balloon experience was a lesson on parenting during difficult moments. Here’s how.

Oceania

Arrowtown Adventures with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to New Zealand’s Charming Gold Rush Town

Escape the bustle of Queenstown by taking a side trip to the cute mining town of Haehaenui Arrowtown located just 20 minutes away.

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Values
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Lifestyle
About Us
- Contact Us

Values
Destinations
Travel Ideas & Tips
Lifestyle
About Us
- Contact Us

Contact Us
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Values
Destinations
Travel Ideas & Tips
Lifestyle
About Us
- Contact Us