The Best Travel Guide to Carlsbad, California

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Carlsbad

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North America United States Carlsbad, California

Overview

Carlsbad, California The guide was updated: 2022-12-21

Nicknamed "Village by the Sea," Carlsbad enjoys seven miles of tidy, serene beaches along the Pacific coastline. This makes it perfect for swimming, sunbathing and surfing, all paired with a mild climate. Furthermore, Carlsbad has three lagoons, a lake, an aquarium, museums and shopping districts. As if that was not enough, the town's proximity to San Diego and Los Angeles provides a multitude of additional options within a short drive.

Facts

Population:	115,302 (2021)
Currency:	$1 U.S. = 100 cents
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	911
Newspapers:	The San Diego Union-Tribune — www.sandiegouniontribune.com Carlsbad Patch — patch.com/california/carlsbad San Diego Reader — www.sandiegoreader.com The Coast News — thecoastnews.com
Website:	visitcarlsbad.com www.carlsbadca.gov
Opening hours:	Most stores are open seven days a week 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, or later. Bars and clubs tend to close around 2:00 am.
Tourist information:	Visit Carlsbad 400 Carlsbad Village Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 +1 800 227 5722 Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 am–5:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am–4:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am–3:00 pm

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Section in Carlsbad, California

For an area just over 39 square miles, the amount of time it would take to fully explore the Carlsbad area is astounding. From hundreds of attractions to shopping of all types and bustling beaches to quiet lagoons, Carlsbad is a vacation spot that is more than just a "Village by the Sea." See below.

Legoland California

Legoland California

Over 22,000 builds and 57 million bricks make up the park´s collection of models ranging from a full-scale Star Wars "X-wing" to miniatures of many U.S. cities. With rides, shows and restaurants, Legoland California is 128 acres of family fun.

The Flower Fields

The Flower Fields

Every year in March, the fields of Carlsbad, California transform into a breathtaking spectacle of colours with blooming flowers. If you happen to be in the city for the season, make sure to go for a stroll across the fields or join a tractor ride through the area. A magnificent place for getting your photo taken or simply taking in the seemingly endless landscape of colours.

Copper Creek Falls Hike

Copper Creek Falls Hike

A little further outside of the city of Carlsbad, you can find the ruins of an old copper mine that was active during World War I, set next to a beautiful creek with waterfalls. The mines can be reached via a short hike from the main road in San Elijo and the paths are signposted.

So Cal Surf Lessons

So Cal Surf Lessons

Since 2004, the Carlsbadians of So Cal Surf Lessons have been teaching the art of riding the wave. Year round, one may learn to be "one with the board" from safe, qualified, CPR and First Aid trained instructors, some of whom are professional surfers.

Carlsbad Skateboard Park

Carlsbad Skateboard Park

The world's first skate-park was completed here in Carlsbad in March of 1976. Get your knee and elbow pads, don your helmet and rip up the park that birthed a worldwide sport that everyone learned to love!

Tamarack Beach

Tamarack Beach

For a family-friendly, easily accessible beach, Carlsbad State Beach, also known as Tamarack Beach, is a safe bet. With spaces proper for many aquatic activities, accessible picnic areas, restrooms, showers and water fountains, this beach and nearby campground, are a great option for anyone hoping to enjoy the Carlsbad coastline.

Terramar Beach

Terramar Beach

If mild seclusion and stellar surf are high on your list of beach requirements, Terramar is for you. With soft sand and small, delicate reefs, this piece of coast produces wonderful waves. Due to the limited visibility of the access, this may be one's best chance for a quiet day enjoying the beach. Be sure to arrive prepared for the time you plan to spend, as there are no restrooms or nearby stores.

Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas - La Costa

Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas - La Costa

For a tweak to your definition of "Dinner and a Movie", try this innovative theater experience. With seat-side waitstaff and full restaurant at your beckon call, electric, reclining leather seats with footrests and 21+ showings that boast a full bar, this is an experience to remember and, for some, an experience that will make you forget that you could ever see a movie any other way.

Sea Life Aquarium

Sea Life Aquarium

An amazing, interactive experience of the world's waters and their inhabitants, large and small. Merlin's Sea Life Aquarium provides families with the opportunity to explore and learn about the exciting sea life!

Aviara Golf Club

Aviara Golf Club

Designed by Arnold Palmer, Golf Digest and Golf Magazine named the Park Hyatt Aviara one of the best resort courses in the United States. Enjoy playing exquisitely manicured grounds overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Preserve with all the modern amenities!

Champions & Legends Golf Courses

Champions & Legends Golf Courses

The fabulous Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, a true paradise, offers two 18-hole PGA Championship courses. The Champions & Legends courses offer tees for all skill levels and 30 years of golf tradition, so make sure to pay it a visit if you are into golf!

Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa

Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa

Voted no.1 for "Best Massage" for three consecutive years, this spa, seated on the edge of downtown Carlsbad, uses and sells the same alkaline water that helped put its city on the map! It's also aptly located on the Historic site of the original artesian well.

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center

As the host of many seminars, festivals and programs year-round, the Discovery Center has facilities for numerous water and land-based activities. The exploration of its three lagoons with its mud flats, marshes and deep waters, is a must for Carlsbad visitors!

Carlsbad Triathlon

Carlsbad Triathlon

A sprint distance race for all skill levels consisting of a1K ocean swim, 25K rolling bike course, and a 5K mostly-flat run, the Carlsbad Triathlon is one of the world's longest running races of its kind. You're invited to join, volunteer for, or just watch this stunning display of human resiliency!

Carlsbad Village Faire

Carlsbad Village Faire

Known as the largest single-day street fair nationwide, the bi-annual Carlsbad Village Faire hosts vendors of myriad unique wares, cuisine from around the world, a children's area and live entertainment in the beer and wine garden produced by The Rotary Club of Carlsbad. More than 100,000 people come each year!

Museum of Making Music

Museum of Making Music

Galleries, interactive exhibits and an ongoing concert series educate visitors in a unique and fun way about the history of music and musical instruments. Come experience and explore America's musical history and finesse!

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