15 Best Things To Do In Carlsbad, California
Carlsbad is a charming coastal town right on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Just 35 miles north of Downtown San Diego, Carlsbad is the embodiment of California spirit, promising stunning sunsets and sandy toes. Whether you’re a self-confessed beach bum, a family on the search for activities for the kids, or a couple seeking a romantic seaside escape, Carlsbad is a place where memories are made against a backdrop of sea, sun, and endless blue skies.
To help you plan the perfect trip, here is my rundown of the 15 best things to do in and around Carlsbad, CA.
1. Unleash Your Inner Child at Legoland California Resort
Legoland California Resort is one of the top Carlsbad attractions for kids, and let’s be honest, big kids too. The theme park is a big hit with Carlsbad visitors and locals alike with awesome rides, interactive shows, and some amazing lego dioramas. As well as the main park, Legoland California is also home to the 10-acre Legoland Water Park, a splashtastic adventure for those hot Carlsbad days!
When it’s time to rest your weary heads, there are some fantastic Legoland hotel options. The Legoland Castle Hotel is one of the most popular, offering themed rooms that transport you to a kingdom of Lego dragons and knights. Ticket prices for the Legoland California parks vary, but park hopper tickets give you the freedom to explore at your pleasure for the duration of your stay in Carlsbad.
2. Voyage Under the Sea at the Sea Life Aquarium
The Carlsbad Sea Life Aquarium is another Legoland attraction, but I love it so much, it definitely deserves its own section. Perfect for families and ocean enthusiasts alike, the aquarium provides an intimate look at a variety of marine life through interactive exhibits and informative live shows. The touch pools provide a hands-on experience with sea stars and urchins, while the 360-degree ocean tunnel immerses you completely, with sharks and rays swimming gracefully overhead.
Try to plan your visit around the feeding times, or even book a behind-the-scenes tour for an in-depth look at the aquarium’s operations. Sea Life Aquarium is one of the best spots in Carlsbad for kids and is a great chance to learn about conserving the ocean’s critical ecosystems.
3. Explore Carlsbad Village
Carlsbad Village is the super popular downtown area, and it’s the perfect spot to soak up the local atmosphere. It is home to some of the best antique stores and chic boutiques in the town and is also the best place to discover the vibrant Carlsbad food scene.
For a taste of local produce and artisanal goods, the weekly Carlsbad Village Farmers Market is a foodie’s delight and a prime opportunity to mingle with locals. Finding parking for the market is often a challenge due to its popularity, but there are usually spots just south of Carlsbad Village Drive.
If you are craft beer fan, Carlsbad Village houses two of San Diego’s most beloved breweries – Pure Project, known for its commitment to sustainability and unique brews, and Pizza Port, a family-friendly spot serving up delicious pizzas alongside their award-winning beers.
4. Pick Strawberries at the Carlsbad Strawberry Company
The Carlsbad Strawberry Company is a 4th generation family business that has some of the best strawberry picking in the San Diego area. Widely considered one of the best attractions in Carlsbad for kids, the 40-acre farm has huge fields of strawberries and other produce, as well as cornhole games, a petting zoo, horse riding, and a 1.5-mile corn maze. It is also home to some fantastic local food trucks so you can spend the whole day enjoying the outdoor activities.
Strawberries are seasonal, but the great thing is that the farm also has pumpkin season during the Fall, so no matter what time you are in Carlsbad, there is always something going on at the Carlsbad Strawberry Company.
5. Head to the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Carlsbad Ranch is home to the mesmerizing Carlsbad Flower Fields, one of the city’s most iconic and photogenic attractions. Spread across fifty-five acres, these vibrant fields are a kaleidoscope of color, featuring rows upon rows of the famous Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers.
There are also a number of other fantastic attractions at the Flower Fields, including a fragrant rose garden, tricky sweet pea mazes, and a scavenger hunt that challenges guests to explore the fields and search for hidden treasures.
The best time to visit the Carlsbad Flower Fields is during the six to eight weeks between March and May when the flowers are in full bloom, so check the fields’ calendar for special events and activities during your visit.
6. Soak Up the Sun at South Carlsbad State Beach
There are seven miles of Carlsbad beaches, but South Carlsbad State Beach is my family’s favorite. Also known as Tamarack Beach, its golden sands and the azure waters of the Pacific, make it the perfect place to bask in the sun, and simply enjoy the quintessential California beach experience.
For those looking to ride the waves, South Carlsbad State Beach provides surf lessons and board hire, making it an excellent spot for both beginners and seasoned surfers. The beach has a number of fantastic restaurants and bars, and there is also a campground on the bluff overlooking the beach.
7. Check Out the Watersports on Carlsbad Lagoon
Carlsbad Lagoon, also known as Agua Hedionda Lagoon, is actually one of three interconnected saltwater lagoons that spread across 1,000 acres of incredible countryside. As well as the beautiful natural scenery, the lagoons are the best place in the San Diego area for paddleboarding, kayaking, and a range of high-octane watersports, including wave runners, speed boat rides, and waterskiing. There are rental facilities, guided tours, and watersport lessons all located right on the lagoon’s edge (and at reasonable prices) so you will have everything you need for a wet and wild day.
If you are looking for a quieter time, the lagoons also have a beautiful dog-friendly beach, designated areas for fishing, windsurfing, and sailing, and a number of fantastic hiking trails that crisscross the beautiful nature reserves. Just make sure you bring your sunblock and camera!
8. Shuck Oysters at the Carlsbad Aquafarm
Located at the lagoon’s edge on Carlsbad Boulevard, Carlsbad Aquafarm is the only oyster farm in Southern California, and one of my favorite spots to visit. This hidden gem is a must-visit for seafood aficionados, providing guided tours around the farm and teaching you about sustainable aquaculture and the fascinating lifecycle of shellfish.
The real highlight, however, is the chance to shuck and taste oysters fresh from the water. They are honestly some of the most incredible oysters I have ever tried, and it’s a great way to learn more about where our food comes from. The aquafarm also has a fantastic farm shop and regular sunset BBQ oyster tastings. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening with awesome food and stunning views over the lagoons.
9. Explore Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is one of the most beloved cultural treasures in the entire San Diego area. The former home of the conservationist and actor, Leo Carrillo, the park is a window into the Golden Age of Hollywood and the rustic elegance of California ranch life in the early 20th century.
The Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park has a visitor center in the original Carillo family home, and other historic buildings showcasing the actor’s life and work. The hacienda, hand-crafted by Carrillo himself, and the beautifully restored adobe buildings, antique farm equipment, and original tiles and artwork, all tell a part of the Carrillo family story.
The park has preserved much of its historical integrity, including the original cantina, which once served as the social hub for the ranch, and the reflecting pool, also designed by Carrillo. Educational programs and interpretive exhibits throughout the park offer a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the site, while the sprawling grounds with its resident peacocks are perfect for an afternoon stroll.
10. Head to a Carlsbad Museum
Carlsbad has some of the best museums in the San Diego region, providing entertainment and education for visitors of all ages. Some of my favorites include:
Museum of Making Music
The Museum of Making Music explores the evolution of musical instruments and the American music industry. It’s the perfect rainy day activity with interactive exhibits and displays that track the growth of the industry from the 1900s until today. The Museum of Making Music also hosts live performances and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Shipley-Magee House and Park
Shipley-Magee House and Park offers a glimpse into the daily life of Carlsbad’s early settlers. This historic home and the surrounding grounds are preserved in all their 19th-century glory and are now home to the Carlsbad Historical Society. The house itself tells the fascinating story of the Smith, Shipley, and Magee families, while the grounds are home to 225 beautifully maintained rose bushes.
Green Dragon Tavern and Museum
The Green Dragon Tavern and Museum is inspired by the historic Boston tavern of the same name, where many of the plans for American independence were discussed. The Carlsbad version serves as both a museum and a restaurant, with historical artifacts and documents on display, and a tavern serving hearty fare in colonial-era surroundings. It’s an educational and sensory experience wrapped into one, where you can learn about the past over a pint. What could be better than that?
11. Sample the Vintages at Witch Creek Winery
Witch Creek Winery is Carlsbad’s own little slice of wine country, bringing the art of fine wine tasting to the seaside. As Carlsbad’s premier urban winery, Witch Creek prides itself on sourcing the best grape varieties from local growers in the San Diego area to create award-winning wines.
The knowledgeable staff are passionate about their craft and are more than happy to walk you through the intricacies of each vintage. Whether you prefer a robust red or a crisp white, there’s a glass here that will cater to your palate. Alongside the tastings, there is also an excellent snack menu designed to complement the wines perfectly. One of the best attractions in Carlsbad for couples and wine enthusiasts!
12. Pick Up a Bargain at Carlsbad Premium Outlets
The Carlsbad Premium Outlets are a veritable shopping oasis for visitors and North County shopaholics alike. The shopping center provides retail therapy options for every wallet, with high-end brands like Michael Kors and Calvin Klein, and casual staples including GAP and Banana Republic.
The Carlsbad Premium Outlets also have a selection of dining options with everything from Starbucks to Panda Express.
13. Ride Around Town on an Electric Bike
Zipping along the coastline of on an electric bike is one of the most exciting ways to explore the Carlsbad area. There are a number of e-bike rental companies including Pedego Carlsbad, which can set you up with everything you need for a self-guided tour of the city.
With the breeze in your hair and eclectic pedal assistance, you can discover all the highlights of Carlsbad Village, the lagoons, and the stunning surrounding area, without breaking sweat.
14. Head to the Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Center
The Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Center is a gateway to Southern California’s most precious coastal wetland. The nature center is not just a stunning area to visit, but an educational experience that highlights the importance of local conservation. Walking trails wind through the reserve, and the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species and native plants.
As one of the last remaining tidal wetlands in the State, it’s a must-see for nature lovers and those looking to escape the bustle of the city for a while.
15. Pamper Yourself at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa
If you’re seeking a touch of luxury, Carlsbad’s Omni La Costa Resort and Spa is an oasis of relaxation and recreation. The Omni’s spa has an extensive menu of treatments, while the resort’s restaurants have some of the best food in Carlsbad.
The resort also has two excellent golf courses which along with the Arnold Palmer-designed Aviara Golf Club, make Carlsbad one of the best golfing destinations in the San Diego area.
Summary
So there you have it folks. My top picks for the 15 best things to do in Carlsbad, California.
Honestly, this beautiful little town is the jewel in the crown of North San Diego County and one of my favorite vacation spots anywhere in Southern California. From the bustling streets of Carlsbad Village, to the tranquil shores of its coastal retreats, this charming city has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags, slap on the sunscreen, and come see for yourself why Carlsbad should be on everyone’s vacation bucket list!
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“How boring would the world be if everywhere and everyone were the same. Safe travels and good adventures.” Scuba Jay
