Carlsbad provides an outstanding selection of accommodations, activities, attractions, shopping and dining experiences. Whether you want to golf, swim, hike, surf, spa or play on the beach, we have the recipe for fun both in and out of the sun!
Our temperate climate, crystal-clear air and sparkling blue Pacific Ocean are an integral part of Carlsbad's irresistible charm. Look no further; the fun starts here!
Stay
Stay
Whether you want to relax by beautiful sandy beaches, play a round of golf, visit any of Southern California's famous theme parks and attractions, Carlsbad offers a wide variety of accommodations to meet your lodging needs. From quaint seaside inns to five-diamond resort hotels, you can find exactly what you're looking for in Carlsbad.
Relax and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the surf just steps from the beach.
Things to Do
While Carlsbad, CA is known as a place to escape the hectic pace of urban life, there are more things to do than shop, eat, sunbathe and golf. Enjoy attractions, low impact adventure and nature-tourism, aquatic sports, art galleries, world-class sporting events and festivals. Visit us and see why Carlsbad is the preferred year-round destination for discerning travelers.
Arts and Festivals - Carlsbad is an extraordinarily lively city offering a diverse selection of annual and special events, from parades, fairs, ethnic fiestas, chalk art festivals to celebrations of the city's many unique qualities and characteristics. In Carlsbad, something wonderful is always happening.
Dining & Nightlife - Carlsbad's restaurant scene offers a variety of carte du jour. From sushi to steak, enchiladas to escargot, haute cuisine to barbecue and burgers, it's more than enough to keep your palate happy. Enjoy authentic ethnic fare, trendy California Cuisine, intimate bistros and friendly sidewalk cafes. You will find delightful alfresco dining an option at almost every restaurant in Carlsbad. Dining to satisfy every taste bud and pocketbook. Bon Appetit!
Golf - When it comes to golf, Carlsbad is Southern California's sweet spot. The San Diego region is the ultimate in golf destinations and offers a course for every type of golfer. With perfect year-round weather, it's always tee-time!
Day Spas - For those in search of fitness, balance, or just good old- fashioned pampering, Carlsbad offers elegant day spas and salons, to the ultimate haven in relaxation and rejuvenation. Carlsbad has the perfect California spa retreat for those seeking heavenly pampering.
The Great Outdoors - If you visit Carlsbad, CA between mid-March and early May you will experience something awe inspiring. Picture yourself in a sea of vibrant spring flowers stretching as far as the eye can see. Carlsbad is blessed with three picturesque lagoons, each with distinctive ecosystems. The lagoons are tranquil and unspoiled, providing safe haven for a wide variety of wildlife. The lagoons are ideal for nature walks and bird watching. Offering the best in nature-based experiences. Carlsbad lagoons, parks and recreational facilities bring you closer to nature...to family and friends!
Attractions
When it comes to fun, Carlsbad is the main attraction! As a visitor to Carlsbad you are limited only by your time and sense of adventure. Listed below are just a few of the great attractions in Carlsbad.
LEGOLAND California - LEGOLAND? California is a 128-acre theme park for families with children ages 3 to 12. With three coasters and 47 other rides and attractions, LEGOLAND provides "minds on" and "hands on" fun and learning. Kids get creative, from skippering wave racers to building cities and programming robots.
Museum of Making Music - Learn about history while you journey down an interactive, music-filled memory lane. Did Louis Armstrong or Elvis introduce you to the world of music? Perhaps it was the Beatles, The Rolling Stones or KISS. This unique museum has exhibits that include more that 450 vintage instruments and samples of the most memorable tunes spanning more than 100 years.
The Magee House - The Magee House is home to the Carlsbad Historical Society's museum and archives. The Magee House is furnished in a turn of the century style reflecting the life style of the early settlers of Carlsbad who once owned the house. Displays of Carlsbad and the surrounding agricultural community are housed here in order to educate the public during the tours. The historical gardens feature a nationally registered Rose Garden, a Victorian herb bed, native southern California bed, Carlsbad commercial growers bed and a patriotic red, white and blue bed.
Events
Carlsbad Farmers Market Annual Strawberry Festival (April) - Celebrate Everything Strawberry - Strawberry Smoothies, Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, Stawberry Lemonade, Fresh Strawberries and, of course, our famous Strawberry Shortcake! We'll have entertainment and fun activities for the whole family...Strawberry Style!
Classic Car Show and Ice Cream Social (July) - The event will offer a variety of activities for all ages. We are holding a classic car show where the attendees are the judges and the participants can win trophies in the following categories: Best Flames, Best Engine, Oldest Driving Car, Kids' Choice, Mayor's Choice, and others. During the event, we will be hosting an 'Old Timers' softball game, bounce houses for the kids, fun crafts, hula hoop and pie eating contests, 'oldies' themed music, a raffle for prizes and of course, good old fashioned ice cream and hot dogs.
Beach'n Cruise (September) - Watch classic cars cruise along the most beautiful coastal section of Historic Highway 101 between Oceanside and La Jolla.
Carlsbad Rotary Oktoberfest (October) - The family event features German food, German music, dancing, and a host of children's activities, including a pumpkin-decorating contest, face painting, clowns, and much more. All proceeds from the event are donated to local non-profit organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad, the Women's Resource Center and many more.
