This spa town at the Rocky Mountains' foothills draws visitors to its mineral springs and wellness resorts. Local boutiques and art galleries line the calm town center.
Carlsbad sits 35 miles north of San Diego, with seven miles of Pacific coastline, white-sand beaches, and ocean-side cliffs. You can spend your days building memories at LEGOLAND California, walking through 50 acres of rainbow-colored ranunculus at The Flower Fields, or playing a round at the Omni La Costa golf courses where Tiger Woods once competed. The mild climate, with temperatures between 60-70°F year-round, makes this coastal city ideal for beach activities, golfing, and exploring three natural lagoons.
Exploring Carlsbad's Beaches
Carlsbad State Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach stretch along the Pacific coast with wide strips of white sand. You can swim, surf, or sunbathe throughout the year. Both beaches include parking areas, restrooms, and picnic spots. A seawall trail runs parallel to the shoreline, where you can walk or cycle while watching waves crash against the shore.
LEGOLAND California Experience
LEGOLAND California has more than 60 rides and shows aimed at families with children aged 2-12. Kids can explore Miniland USA to see replicas of famous American cities built from LEGO bricks. Cool off at the adjacent LEGOLAND Water Park, which includes a 45-foot tower water slide and multiple splash zones.
The Flower Fields Season
From March through April, The Flower Fields burst into color as giant ranunculus flowers blanket 50 acres of hillside. You can walk the paths between flower rows, stopping at viewpoints to photograph the multi-colored slopes. The grounds include a sweet pea maze, themed gardens, and host seasonal events during the blooming months.
Golf Courses
Several championship-level golf courses dot the Carlsbad landscape. At Omni La Costa Resort, you can play on the same Champions and Legends courses where professional tournaments have taken place. The Aviara Golf Club, an Arnold Palmer design, winds through the natural terrain overlooking Batiquitos Lagoon.
Museums and Cultural Sites
At the Museum of Making Music, you can try playing various instruments and learn about audio innovation through hands-on exhibits and live performances. The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum displays detailed mechanical models and working miniature engines. Inside a Victorian-era building, the Carlsbad Historical Society Museum preserves photographs and artifacts from the city's past.
Getting Around
Two Coaster commuter rail stations - Carlsbad Village and Carlsbad Poinsettia - connect you to greater San Diego. The Breeze bus service and Carlsbad Connector microtransit help you navigate within the city. For air travel, McClellan-Palomar Airport lies 7 miles from downtown, serving regional flights and private aircraft.
