If you’re looking for a California vacation that isn’t the craziness of LA or downtown San Diego, you should check out Carslbad! Even as a San Diego local, Carlsbad might seem like it’s too far – but it’s the perfect place to enjoy a staycation. There is something for everyone in this seaside town.
From 7 miles of beautiful beaches to world-class shopping and dining, Carlsbad has it all. Located in North County San Diego, the history of Carlsbad, is rich and colorful, from its founding by Spanish explorers in the 16th century to the present day.
Here are our top 10 picks for things to do in Carlsbad:
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Visit Legoland California Resort
Legoland always comes to mind when you are in North County San Diego and is always a good time if you have kids under 12. This popular theme park offers rides, shows, and a water park all themed around the beloved Lego toys. If you’re visiting from out of town, don’t forget to check out the Lego-themed hotel as well!
Looking for a fun and unique pool experience? The pool at the hotel is the perfect place to beat the summer heat. It has a heated pool with LEGO bricks that you can build with while you swim. The Legoland Hotel pool offers food and beverage service by the pool. Cabanas are also available for rent as well as swim-in movies, seasonally.
Stroll along Carlsbad State Beach
San Diego has some of the best beaches in California. Also known as Tamarack Beach – Carlsbad State Beach is located right in the heart of downtown, and it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. It’s walking distance to Carlsbad Village so you can expect it to be less crowded the more south you go.
Pack your surfboard, beach towel, and sunscreen, and head down to Carlsbad State Beach for a day of sun, sand, and surf! You can go for a swim, take a walk on the shoreline trail, or enjoy an afternoon picnic with friends and family.
Go shopping on Carlsbad Village Drive
Just a few minute walk from Carlsbad State Beach, is where you can find quaint boutiques, jewelry stores and antique shops.
This charming street is lined with unique stores offering something for everyone. Stop at one of the delicious cafes or restaurants along the way to refuel after a long day of shopping.
Visit Tip Top Meats
This local butcher shop has been an integral part of the Carlsbad community for over 70 years. They offer high-quality meats, fantastic sandwiches, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Tip Top Meats is the perfect place to grab some lunch or pick up groceries for dinner. Located at 930 Carlsbad Village Drive, Tip Top Meats is a must-visit destination when in Carlsbad.
Take a surf lesson
Surfing is a huge part of the Carlsbad culture – and one of the most popular activities in town, so why not give it a try! There are several surf schools located along the coastline that can teach you everything you need to know about surfing.
Visit the famous Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
This 50-acre site features rows upon rows of colorful Ranunculus flowers in bloom from March through May. Take a wagon ride or simply stroll through the flowers and take in the stunning scenery.
You can take a tour through the fields, and you’ll even get to meet the growers and learn about how they maintain these beautiful flowers. It’s a fun family activity that everyone will love!
Go whale watching
Another popular activity in Carlsbad is whale watching. From December to mid-April, you can spot gray whales as they migrate up and down the California coast.
Whale watching tours are offered through several companies in town, or you can take your own boat out to the ocean and try spotting the whales on your own.
Shop till you drop at The Forum Carlsbad
The Forum Carlsbad is a popular shopping center with over 100 shops and restaurants, so you’re sure to find something that you’ll love. With major retailers like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue as well as smaller boutiques and specialty stores, there is something for every style and budget. The beautiful outdoor setting and countless dining options also make it a perfect place to spend the day with friends or family.
State Street Farmers’ Market in Carlsbad
Venturing into the heart of Carlsbad on a Wednesday? If so, the State Street Farmers’ Market is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the State Street Farmers’ Market in Carlsbad, where every Wednesday, the community comes alive with a plethora of fresh and artisanal offerings. Open from 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm (spring/summer hours), the market transforms into an open-air grocery store, focusing on providing fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, cheese, eggs, nuts, and honey, among other delightful finds.
The market prides itself on supporting local farmers and providing the community with high-quality, unique products not commonly found in traditional grocery stores. Here, shopping becomes an experience, with a diverse vendor lineup ranging from certified growers offering a variety of fresh produce, to artisan food vendors selling items like homemade cookies, granola, kombucha, and more.
With ample parking available in the village and a commitment to operating even in mild inclement weather, the State Street Farmers’ Market stands as a not-to-be-missed destination in Carlsbad.
Go golfing at the beautiful Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
San Diego is know for its top notch golf courses. Golf enthusiasts from around the world come to play at this award-winning resort and spa. With two championship golf courses, you’ll get to perfect your swing while enjoying the stunning scenery of southern California. La Costa also offers a variety of dining options, so you can refuel after a long day on the course. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just looking for a fun day out, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is the perfect place to visit in Carlsbad.
Batiquitos Lagoon: A Coastal Sanctuary in Carlsbad
Discover the natural beauty of Batiquitos Lagoon, a breathtaking coastal wetland nestled between southern Carlsbad and Encinitas in San Diego County, California. Spanning 610 acres and surrounded by a vast 55,000-acre drainage basin, the lagoon stands as one of the last remaining tidal wetlands in southern California, offering a serene escape into nature’s embrace.
Visitors can explore the lagoon’s wonders at the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation Nature Center, where a variety of programs and guided walks unveil the lagoon’s significance as a vital habitat for a diverse array of birds, insects, plants, fish, and mammals. Enhancing the visitor experience is a 1.75-mile nature trail along the lagoon’s north side, offering a wheelchair and stroller-friendly pathway for an immersive journey through this remarkable estuarine sanctuary.
