hotel recommendations

[funhouse8]

If you plan on going to Alcatraz pre-buy your tickets and make ressies on the computer before you go. we went in the summer and it was packed and we never got to go.

 

[damo]

Thanks for the heads up. We will definitely do that!

 

[Hermosa11]

exDSvet comments on various cites to see. I agree with all.
I visit SF as often as I can (1-1/2 hr drive away). I was at Union Square just about 3 weeks ago. I park at 5th and Mission and roam around with DS(17). He loves to hit "Urban Outfitters" clothing shop. Disney store is fun to browse. yes! Pier 39 is a must. Maybe take a boat ride under the golden Gate bridge maybe? If not, park , roam and also walk part way on the Golden Gate Bridge. You park your car....get out and walk with the many others (need a coat - usually) as far out as you want. Just turn around and head back to car.
Sony Metreon is nice, but not a must see. (this is at Union Square area....it is a huge movie complex, with sony playstation game areas......eating area). Alcatraz, Angel Island and the Bay Cruises are all available from Fisherman's Wharf. (If you visit Fisherman's Wharf, there really is no need to see Monterey. Cannery Row is very similar. Also a bit like Pike's Place in Seattle).
I agree with a trip (half day?) to see Alcatraz. Such an experience.
You visiting with kids? How long in S.F. -2nights? 3? 4?
Carmel: how many nights? Pacific Grove is close by! beautiful area. Pebble beach golfing!!! Oh my. I hear that is sooo expensive. That will be such a treat for DH! What will you do while he golfs? You MUST take the 17-mile drive. That is beautiful.

I feel a 2-day visit to Disneyland is needed especially if it is new for you. I did it in one day in July last year and yr. before with DS(17) and DD(18). We Loved every minute of it. My DD got a bit tired, but my son and I just kept on going. I lost 90# and have tons more energy than before!
okay, enuf of my two cents (rather 40 dollars worth).

 

[damo]

Here's our itinerary ... myself, husband, 18 year old daughter and 15 year old son

Three nights (two rooms) at Argonaut hotel at Fisherman's Wharf. A day and a half touring the city including Alcatraz. The other day, we will take the ferry up to Valejo and go to Six Flags Marine World.

One night at Sierra Suites Paramount Great America.

Drive down to Valencia. Three nights at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites to do Magic Mountain and golf.

One night at the Sheraton Universal to do Universal Studios.

Six nights (two rooms) at the Hyatt Huntington beach to do Disney, Knotts, learn to surf and take some bus tours of the city.

If anyone has any more suggestions, keep them coming. I am so grateful for the advice!!!