Commiefornia vacation planning

I'm partial to San Diego having lived there for five years as there is a lot to do and it's the least similar to what you described in the second sentence of your intro... Legoland would be fun for your boys and it's not bad for the parents either. San Diego Zoo (both of them), Midway museum, and I would also recommend an overnight trip to Catalina on the ferry, because often that ferry ride can take the place of a separate whale/dolphin watching tour. Or, if you're into crowds rather than serenity, you can visit museums, beaches, parks, etc., rather than Catalina.

Or, an alternative trip could be fly into San Fran, spend a night/day exploring, then hop in a rental and head south on PCH along Big Sur. Spend a night or two in Monterrey, Santa Barbara, etc., whatever strikes your fancy while planning. Last day get into LA, explore Newport Beach, Venice Beach, etc. and fly out next day. I thought Hollywood was super boring but enjoyed visiting each of the beach communities because there are different vibes.
 
Oh I forgot to say Sea World is also in San Diego and fun but doing the Aquarium at Legoland is a nice, cheaper alternative than doing both Legoland and Sea World.
 
Have you looked at how much they want to rape you for a rental car? Even before the cooties they wanted big money for a rental car. I've been to California a few times, and they can keep it. The San Diego Zoo was the only thing I really liked.
 
I haven't, no. I will though, thanks.

I have read and considered all the input so far guys, thanks. In negotiations with the wife now and still bouncing ideas around. I will follow up with y'all on the final decision 👍