Summer in Southern California means sunny skies, cool coastal breezes, and more things to do as a family than you can possibly fit into one trip. If you’re thinking about how to celebrate the last day of school in California, now is the perfect time to plan a quick getaway — ahead of peak heat and crowds. Whether you’re headed straight to Disneyland® or mixing in a beach day or baseball game, there are plenty of ways to kick off summer in Anaheim.

Make Magical Memories at Disneyland®

A trip to Disneyland® is a no-brainer for families with school-aged kids, and early summer is one of the best times to go. May and the first part of June usually see smaller crowds and more comfortable weather compared to the peak season later in the summer. That makes it easier to explore popular lands and attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Haunted Mansion.

Make use of the free Disney Genie tool to help plan your days in the park, and consider a Lightning Lane Pass to skip long wait times on top rides such as Space Mountain or Indiana Jones™ Adventure.

Cool Off at Disney California Adventure Park®

If you’re planning a multi-day Disney® trip, don’t skip Disney California Adventure Park®. It’s packed with family-friendly experiences like the Pixar Pal-A-Round ferris wheel and the thrilling Incredicoaster. If you’re looking to escape the afternoon heat, the Animation Academy in Hollywood Land is a great spot to rest your feet and take a drawing class led by a real Disney animator. The Avengers Campus is another huge hit, especially for Marvel fans. Kids (and kids at heart) can meet Spider-Man or jump into action on Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure.

Hit the Beach

For a change of scenery and some much-needed downtime, Laguna Beach is under an hour’s drive from Anaheim. This classic SoCal beach town is known for its scenic coves, tidepools, and soft sand — ideal for a relaxing afternoon between full days in the parks. Families often head to Main Beach for its gentle waves, playground, restrooms, volleyball and basketball courts, and nearby concession stands, but gorgeous Treasure Island Beach is also a great option with its clean bathrooms, easy access paths, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Catch a Home Game at Angel Stadium

Baseball season lines up perfectly with the last day of school Orange County, and Angel Stadium is easily accessible from anywhere in Anaheim. Cheering on the Los Angeles Angels is a fun way to unwind after running around Disneyland® or being in the sun on the beach all day, and as a bonus, tickets are generally affordable, especially for families. Check out the stadium’s promotional schedule for fun giveaways, fireworks after dark, or themed nights like Star Wars and beach weekends. Children sometimes also have the opportunity to run the bases before or during games.

Ride the Coasters at Knott’s Berry Farm

For thrill-seekers, Knott’s Berry Farm in nearby Buena Park (less than 15 minutes from Anaheim) is another solid pick for families looking to extend their Southern California adventure. Knott’s has roller coasters for big kids and Camp Snoopy rides for the little ones. Don’t miss non-ride activities like the Ghost Town area, where kids can pan for gold or watch a real blacksmith at work. 

Kick off Summer at Camelot Inn & Suites

There’s no better way to celebrate the start of summer break than with a sun-drenched, fun-filled escape. Camelot Inn & Suites puts you right where the fun begins — literally. Located just a short walk from the main gates of Disneyland®, our hotel makes it easy to maximize your time in the parks (and anywhere else in Orange County!) without the stress of a long commute.After jam-packed days filled with screaming on rides, soaking up the sun at the beach, or cheering on the Angels, you can unwind at our outdoor pool or stretch out in a suite designed with families in mind. Book your end-of-school-year escape today and make the most of this sweet spot between the end of school and the summer rush.