We've taken our kids to Florida a number of times now, and they absolutely love it, as do my husband and I, apart from being quite in need of a relaxing holiday when we get back, lol!

Anyway, my eldest daughter is getting to the age where she may only be holidaying with us for a few more years, so my husband and I have been discussing doing the California side, as they have Disney and a number of other theme parks too.

We are hoping to stay in a house for a couple of weeks around Anaheim, where Disney is, from there apparently we're only one hour south of San Diego and one hour north to Los Angeles, and Universal Studios too. After approximately 2 weeks we hope to go up to San Francisco to spend the last week there.

So, just to ask if anyone's done this holiday, or has any advice on the area, the theme parks, house rentals, anything really. We've never been to California before so everything is new.

Many thanks

J xxx

Ok - where to start.
California is a fantastic holiday - i'll give you 'my' advice and then i guess its kind of up to you to take from it what you want.....
Personally, if you've done Disney Florida, i wouldnt do Disney California - they are too similar to waste time that could be spent doing other stuff.
I think you are right to stay out of LA - its not the 'nicest' of places, although taking a Hollywood / Beverley Hills escorted tour is a must!
Sea World in San Diego is great - but again if you've been to Florida its just a duplication.
I would def suggest driving to the Mexico border and going to Tijuana for the day, its a fab experience. I'd also suggest if you have time, driving to Las Vegas for a couple of days - its a shame to be so close and not go there, it is the most amazing city in the world (after San Francisco)!!
The pacific coast highway - LA to SF is a fantastic drive whichever way round you do it. I have friends that live just outside of SF and we try to go every few years -there is so much to do - Alcatraz is definatley the highlight for me, i just find it so interesting. The sea lions down on Fishermans Wharf are worth a look and obviously the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, the fantastic shopping.....I could just go on.

Anyway i guess what i'm trying to say is that you'll have a fab time but have a look at a good duide book before you go as there is just sooooo much to do!

Oh - and if you havent booked it yet and are able to, i'd recommend flying BA or Virgin rather than charter, it really does make the difference for that extra few hours on Florida....