Carlsbad

Carlsbad is an outdoor-lover’s paradise! Visit the Flower Fields, breweries, local parks & cafes. Hit the beaches and enjoy the sunset from the boardwalk.

By Todd Sarouhan

Last Updated on
Apr 28, 2021

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

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Boardwalk, Beaches & Flowers Fields in Carlsbad

With seven miles of breathtaking coastline, exciting resorts and beautiful nature preserves, Carlsbad, California is perfect for people who love the outdoors. The city of Carlsbad is located in San Diego County, known as North County San Diego to the locals, and is close to downtown San Diego, but it has its own laid-back vibe that draws in locals and tourists. This popular vacation destination blends surf havens with gorgeous canyons, so it’s impossible to run out of things to do and see.

Carlsbad has three beautiful lagoons that provide crystal-clear waters, lush hiking trails and incredible sand. In total, they encompass over 1,000 acres, making it easy to relax completely in gorgeous surroundings. Places such as Batiquitos Lagoon provide space for getting some exercise with a breathtaking backdrop.

Golf is another big draw of this coastal city. Carlsbad is home to some of the most famous courses on the PGA circuit, letting you tee up in a golfer’s paradise. The rolling hills and amazing course design are on par with the best clubs in the world.

The city has a hip spring-break atmosphere, so you can always find somewhere to party for happy hour after the sun goes down. Sample delicious craft beer at one of the popular local breweries in the city while feasting on the best tacos and burgers around. Carlsbad has a vibrant food scene, focusing a lot on menu items that are tasty and fast.

By the time you leave, expect to have your own favorite taquerias, food trucks, taverns and sandwich shops. Stop at a local bistro to sample freshly made Italian pastries and oh-so-good coffee creations. Many of the upscale restaurants in the city feature beachfront views, so you can enjoy a romantic dinner for two surrounded by tropical palms and soothing sand.

One of the best parts of eating out in Carlsbad is the incredible seafood, from smooth sushi to crunchy fish tacos. There are many different kinds of cuisine on the menu, including Japanese, Italian, SoCal and New American. Authentic Mexican restaurants dot most street corners, and their flavorful and fresh bites are irresistible.

It’s a good idea to check the Carlsbad events calendar ahead of time, since the city has a lot of festivals and competitions throughout the year. For example, if you’re traveling in January, you may want to sign up for the Carlsbad Marathon. Suit up with 10,000 other runners to jog through the Village of Carlsbad and along Highway 101.

Why you'll love Carlsbad

Carlsbad is an outdoor-lover’s paradise! Visit the Flower Fields, breweries, local parks & cafes. Hit the beaches and enjoy the sunset from the boardwalk.

Safari Park+Zoo = Go Pass

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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The Go City San Diego pass gives visitors the ability to save up to 55% on attraction admissions.

Combine our exclusive 5% discount to save even more and consider the All-Inclusive pass to maximize your savings. Plus the pass gives you the ability to skip the line when visiting select attractions.

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Things to Do

Beach Fire Pits

Beach Volleyball

Biking

Fishing

Kayaking

LEGOLAND California

Paddle Boarding

Picnic Tables

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Skateboarding

Sunbathing

Surfing

Swimming

Waterpark

Things to Do in Carlsbad

Carlsbad is the ideal beach city, with plenty of nightlife and entertainment within city limits and stunning nature preserves outside of town. That makes it a popular getaway for people who prefer a mixture of relaxation and outdoor excitement, an very cool thing to visit is featured in the Best 16 Farmers Markets in San Diego . Here are a few ways to enjoy the perfect California summer:

Parks Overlooking the Ocean in Carlsbad

Walking, Hiking and Backpacking

The area in and around Carlsbad Village has over 65 miles of trails, making it one of the best places to immerse yourself in nature. Go backpacking in the forested terrain around the city, take a walk to a secluded lagoon or go beach-combing in front of the ocean. Some trails offer long excursions with stunning overlooks and others are perfect for a romantic stroll near sunset.

Shops in the Village of Carlsbad

Shopping

Don’t let Carlsbad’s laid-back exterior fool you — there are countless shops, malls and hot spots in this hip city. Visit Carlsbad Premium Outlets or The Forum to watch the latest movies and check out California fashion trends in an open-air shopping environment. This mall is actually featured on Best Malls in San Diego. Downtown Carlsbad also features art galleries, craft chocolatiers, shoe outlets and other cool stores.

Mountain Biking

Discover California’s best off-road destinations by taking a mountain bike through forests and rocky terrain. The trails around Carlsbad reward you with incredible views of striking cliffs, blue skies, hidden beaches and miles of ocean.

Did you know?

Carlsbad is famous for its Flower Fields which bloom from early March to early May.

Entrance to the Army and Navy Academy

Places to See

Outside Carlsbad, Batiquitos Lagoon offers 561 acres and 1.3 miles of guided walking and hiking trails. The Buena Vista Lagoon acts as an ecological preserve for many species of birds, including the Vermillion Flycatcher and the Great Blue Heron. All in all, it’s home to 103 bird species, making it popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers.

From mid-March to mid-May, visitors can observe a stunning display of carefully chosen flowers at The Flower Fields. From purple orchids to Persian buttercups, the blossoms at The Flower Fields are a treat for nature lovers. With over 50 acres of Tecolote Giant Ranunculus, you can snap photos of a sea of color.

With period adobe buildings and stables, the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is a must for architecture lovers and history buffs. This completely restored hacienda provides a look at California’s rich cultural heritage, and it is home to flocks of iconic peacocks. Visitors can explore the buildings and trails of this 27-acre estate, including the main house, reflecting pool, cantina, cabana and carriage house.

Golfing

If you want to walk in the footsteps of the masters, you need to schedule a tee time at Omni La Costa Legends and Champions golf courses. These picturesque 18-hole courses have been part of the PGA circuit for decades. Golf legends such as Tiger Woods have played here, along with Hollywood greats including Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope.

The Crossings at Carlsbad is another well-known golf course. Enjoy verdant fairways that look out over the Pacific Ocean. This course stretches 6,835 yards along hills and valleys, with 18 magnificent holes and multiple types of terrain.

If you love golf, this is set to be one of your favorite destinations. It’s beautiful.

South Ponto Beach in Carlsbad

Driving

Historic Highway 101 runs through Carlsbad along Southern California’s magnificent coast. Enjoy the freedom of the open road, visiting beaches of Encinitas further south La Jolla. This is a great way to see California’s authentic beauty, tasting the menu at roadside diners or kicking back on secluded beaches.

If you are looking to go to the San Diego Zoo, the drive from Carlsbad to San Diego is only about 30 minutes along the I-5 freeway.

Swamis Cafe in the Village of Carlsbad

Grooving

For three days in September, the Carlsbad Music Festival brings everything to life. Watch live music with well-known jazz, pop, folk, classical and world music performers. TGIF Concerts in the Parks offers free concerts at parks throughout the city on Friday evenings from late June to the end of August.

Popular Activities

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Discounts Available

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San Diego Harbor Cruise

$36 per person

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Drive Your Own Speed Boat Tour

$80 per person

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Surf Lessons in La Jolla

$134 per person

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Places to See

Featured Activity

Kids mesmerized by the life-size legos at LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket

Enjoy the 2nd day FREE with this LEGOLAND® California Hopper Ticket! Save BIG when your 2nd visit occurs within 9 days of your 1st to LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Aquarium or the LEGOLAND Water Park.

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Carlsbad With Kids

What kid doesn’t love LEGO bricks? LEGOLAND California gives the traditional theme park a kid-friendly spin with rides, roller coasters and high-tech 3D adventures inspired by the world of LEGO. Kids can also spend hours building their own LEGO creations, tour a LEGO factory or walk around giant LEGO replicas of famous landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge.

Attention all visitors to Carlsbad and LEGOLAND California! Starting March 22, prepare for an exciting journey into the past as we introduce the park's latest attraction, Dino Valley. Step into a world of towering LEGO dinosaurs and thrilling rides, all themed around the prehistoric era. Join us as we unveil what's new and what to expect at the all-new Dino Valley, promising excitement and adventure for the whole family! Don't miss out on this thrilling addition to your LEGOLAND California experience!

If you are looking to save, consider bundling your tickets for LEGOLAND California with other popular attractions like the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld San Diego. The San Diego Go Card lets you do this and you can save big. You can also save more by using our exclusive discount link for extra savings.

Large Lego Man at Legoland California

For even more LEGO fun, check out LEGOLAND Water Park. Kids of all ages have a blast at this water park that mixes building blocks with towering waterslides. Get drenched together at the Soak-N-Sail pirate ship or battle with other families at Pirate Reef’s floating coaster.

SEA LIFE Aquarium gives kids an up-close look at underwater creatures such as manta rays, sharks and octopi. There are interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences, such as walking through a cool bioluminescent pond in the dark. Hopper Packages are available to include these aquatic adventures with tickets to LEGOLAND California.

Lego Ninjago Weekends at Legoland CA

Ninjas have taken over LEGOLAND CA! From interactive shows to exclusive meet-and-greets, LEGO NINJAGO weekends are the place to join the Elemental Masters.

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Know Before You Go & Tips

Amazing Sunsets

Boardwalk

Cafes

Parks

Shopping

Trolley Stop

Walkable

The Best Beaches Around Carlsbad

One of the biggest draws of Carlsbad are the miles of beaches within walking and biking distance of the city. They offer beautiful vistas, exciting watersports and a pleasant surfing village vibe. Here are a few must-visit beaches in the area:

South Carlsbad State Beach

Enjoy a unique vacation experience by camping near the water at South Carlsbad State Beach. Laugh around a bonfire on the beach and fall asleep to the gentle sounds of surf and stars. Campsites tend to fill quickly, so it’s a good idea to make reservations well ahead of time.

Carlsbad State Beach

Carlsbad State Beach covers an extensive stretch of breathtaking coastline, including places such as North Ponto Beach, Tamarack Surf Beach and Warm Water Jetty. This is one of San Diego’s most popular beaches, and it appeals to couples, families and adventurers because of the huge variety of things to do. Fun water sports here include surfing, kite-boarding, kayaking and swimming, and you can also enjoy sand volleyball, hiking, biking and fishing.

There are three seawalls at different parts of Carlsbad State Beach, such as the one extending from Cannon Road to Tamarack Avenue. When you’re in the mood for a relaxing stroll along the Pacific Ocean, these seawalls provide views unlike anything you’ve seen before. Couples love to gather here near evening to share an unforgettable sunset.

South Ponto Beach

This family favorite has enormous sand dunes to explore, and it’s also one of the widest beaches in California. This gives you space to relax away from the hustle and bustle of city life. South Ponto Beach is equipped with showers and restrooms for a complete afternoon on the sand, and it’s located right across Highway 101 from Batiquitos Lagoon.

Carlsbad City Beach

If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, head off the beaten path to one of the Carlsbad City Beach. There are public access areas to this beautiful beach at places such as Rue des Chateaux, Grand Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive.

Terramar Beach

The ideal location for surfers, Terramar Beach is a hidden gem with awesome waves. It doesn’t have a lot of amenities, but that adds to its charm for beach lovers since it keeps crowds to a minimum. Don’t forget to pack your surfboard and your camera so you can capture vibrant photographs of California’s orange sunset reflecting off the miles of cliffs.

Tamarack Beach

Technically part of Carlsbad State Beach, Tamarack Surf Beach is the ideal place to catch some waves while visiting Carlsbad. It is just south of Carlsbad City Beach and north of Warm Water Jetty Beach.

Maybe it's Highway 101, or maybe it’s the surf culture, but Carlsbad beaches are great for chilling. They’re a lot of fun for families with kids. Couples in search of romance can also find private areas for sharing a kiss to remember.

In case you want to enjoy any of these beautiful beaches, we’ve selected the 11 best hotels in Carlsbad California so you can have the relaxing stay you’ve dreamed of, on the beach or out and about in San Diego!

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