Carlsbad CA Attractions
Located about 35 miles north of San Diego, Carlsbad is often called “Village By The Sea.” This is a piece of old-world charm that entices vacationers who want a relaxing break from routine, but desire world-class attractions, things to do, awesome oceanfront lodging, great ocean-view restaurants, scenic beaches, boutique shopping, and even campgrounds atop bluffs that overlook coastline horizons that reward tourists with perfect weather and romantic sunsets. That’s Carlsbad, California. Perfect vacation place for families with kids as well as romantics on a honeymoon.
Carlsbad Attractions & Theme Parks
Besides its beaches, Legoland is the most visited attraction in Carlsbad that features amusement rides, hands-on themed interactive shows, building play areas, the Miniland exhibits, restaurants, shopping, and beautiful gardens. The Legoland California Resort now features its Legoland Water Park. The SEA LIFE aquarium gets you beneath the sea without getting wet. Come face-to-face with a world of marine life. The famous colorful Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch puts its flower fields on display each year beginning in March for about six to eight weeks. Be sure to visit Leo Carrillo Ranch, a 27-acre historic park.
The Flower Fields of Carlsbad
Colorfully arrayed like royalty on hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Over 50 acres of visual splendor, The Flower Fields of Carlsbad, California is only open for about a two-month spring season in March and April. Over 150,000 come and visit every year to meander among the flowers and marvel at the brilliance of giant “Ranunculus” in full bloom. Take a stroll or take a ride through the fields on an open-air wagon. Bring a picnic lunch and by all means, don’t forget your camera. Smell the fragrance and enjoy the views of the Carlsbad coastline.
Carlsbad Beaches
Over 7 miles of pristine Carlsbad beaches comprised of two beach environments beautifully set below picturesque bluffs. There are distinct beach areas that only permit surfing and kayaking while other portions are reserved for swimming, picnicking and sunbathing. South Carlsbad State Beach is one of the most popular beach camping beaches in the San Diego area features a campground with 222 camping sites that are RV friendly. The campground sits on top of the bluffs that overlook the beach and ocean horizons. And the beaches in Carlsbad permit dogs with certain guidelines.
There are primarily two beach areas in Carlsbad CA. Carlsbad State Beach is a family water-recreation beach for swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing, and picnicking. South Carlsbad State Beach is a camping beach with 222 campsites are located on the bluffs overlooking the beach. There are stairway accesses in the campgrounds leading to beach areas.
Carlsbad State Beach
Carlsbad State Beach is a 4-mile long beach that is sometimes referred to as Tamarack Beach since it is located at the foot of Tamarack Avenue in the city of Carlsbad CA. It is the most crowded area where you will see families enjoying picnics, barbecuing, swimming, sunbathing, and playing volleyball. There are areas set aside for surfing, boogie boarding kayaking, and fishing. There are jogging trails on the bluffs and down the beach areas. Walkways on the beach permit roller-blading and is dog-friendly with leashes. The beach is located near Carlsbad Village where you will find nice dining restaurants and boutique shopping on Carlsbad Village Drive.
South Carlsbad State Beach (Ponto Beach)
South Carlsbad State Beach is a camping beach. There are two sections that combined feature 222 camping sites that set on the bluff overlooking the beach. There are no day-use facilities in the campground but the beach area is open to daily public use. The most scenic camping spots are those with ocean beach views. There are several stairways located in the campgrounds that lead down the bluffs down to the beach.
This is one of the most popular campgrounds in the San Diego area and can get quite crowded, particularly during the summer months. Reservations are a must. In fact, reservations often fill up six months in advance on the day they are released. The campground is divided into two sections by the camp road that runs down the middle between the sections. Token-operated showers are available to campers. Token machines are located at the campfire center and ranger system. A camp store located near the campground entrance operates March through October and provides all the amenities a camper may need including some RV supplies, boogie boards, firewood, and fishing gear.
Golfing In Carlsbad California
Carlsbad has several golf courses. The La Costa Resort and Spa has been a legend course for over 30 years. This 18-hole championship golf course meanders around the scenic resort. The golf course at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort is a special treat for the golfing enthusiast. It is a lushly scenic coastal layout sculpted on hillsides covered with native wildflowers and accented with spectacular water features. You will love its 32,000 square foot Spanish Colonial-style clubhouse with all of the amenities. The backdrop of the Crossings at Carlsbad is views of the Pacific withing coastal habitation. The lush fairways meander through a rugged terrain creating a memorable golf experience. Also, see the Lake Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course. If you’re looking for a short executive golf course, try the Rancho Carlsbad Country Club.
Shopping In Carlsbad
Vacationing tourists love to shop. There’s no shortage of unique shopping venues in and around Carlsbad. Upscale, casual, and boutique shopping, your choice. Stroll the tree-lined streets of Carlsbad Village and discover its unique collection boutique shops, art galleries, jewelers, beauty salons, restaurants, a farmer’s market, and historic homes. If you’re after bargains, visit the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, an outdoor center that features over 90 discount outlet stores. Another great choice is the Village Faire Shopping Center located in the historic village of Carlsbad. This venue features over 33 restaurants and shops designed with a Caribbean flair.
Carlsbad Lodging, Hotels, Motels & Resorts
Choose from a wide selection of lodging accommodations in Carlsbad from budget-minded motels to full-service hotels, world-class resorts, vacation rentals on the beachfront or bed and breakfasts that provide the comforts away from home.
