15 Best Things to Do in Carlsbad
Last Updated on November 14, 2024 by Polly Dimitrova
Nestled along the Pacific Ocean and only 35 miles North of San Diego, Carlsbad is a a charming coastal city. Widely known as the home to Legoland California, its stunning beaches and mild sunny weather all year-round, Carlsbad is a fantastic family-friendly destination for both indoor and outdoor activities. From the vibrant Carlsbad village to the peaceful atmosphere at Leo Carrilo Ranch Historic Park, there are numerous fabulous things to do in Carlsbad.
My family and I often visit Carlsbad on the weekend to enjoy a few hours of peace and quiet. Below you will find our family’s top picks on the best things to do in Carlsbad, California!
Explore Carlsbad Village
Begin your day of discovery in the vibrant Carlsbad Village, a beloved destination that comes alive, particularly on weekend mornings. Locals often start their day with a leisurely stroll through downtown, followed by a delicious brunch. Situated along Carlsbad Boulevard, the area is lined with charming coffee shops, boutique stores, and local art galleries. As you wander through the village, you will be swept up in its unique blend of small-town warmth and lively urban energy. Just a short walk away, the stunning Carlsbad State Beach and Boardwalk await, offering even more scenic beauty to explore. With its easy walkability, the entire area allows you to fully immerse yourself in the relaxed, coastal vibe of Carlsbad.
Enjoy the Sun at Carlsbad State Beach
With an average of 267 days of sunshine per year, San Diego County’s lifestyle is all about beaches, sunbathing, and surfing. Carlsbad hosts seven miles of spectacular Pacific Coastline, composed of eight separate beaches. Some are remote and rugged, others are easily accessible and family-friendly. They are all equally stunning and absolutely worth a visit. We love the Carlsbad State Beach, also known as Tamarack Beach, due to its convenient location and just a short walk away from Carlsbad Village.
As one of our family’s favorite beaches in the area, we visit often, especially in the afternoon. We usually spend an hour or two. The water can be extremely pleasant and we allow our son to splash in the ocean. He also loves playing in the soft sand and we always join in building a castle. Carlsbad State Beach is an excellent spot for families with smaller children and one of the best things to do in Carlsbad.
There is also a walking path that goes along the entire extent of the beach for those who do not feel like dipping their toes in the sand or ocean!
Stroll Along the Carlsbad Beach Boardwalk
Right along the Carlsbad State Beach, visitors will find a mile-long boardwalk. The path is perfect for jogging, cycling or even just taking a slow stroll and admiring the stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Start at the Harbor Fish Cafe and make your way to Lifeguard Tower 34 as you soak in the incredible beauty of the Californian coastline. Feel the fresh ocean breeze and listen to the rhythmic sounds of the waves, pause for a moment, and savor the lively but also peaceful beach ambiance. The boardwalk serves as a pathway between the village and the beach and is one of the best things to do in Carlsbad.
Spend the Day at Legoland
Regardless if you are planning a family-friendly vacation or just a romantic getaway, spending a day at Legoland is always a good idea! It is among the most popular San Diego theme parks and an absolute favorite for LEGO enthusiasts. There is a wide range of rides and attractions for people from all age groups and an exciting event calendar for events throughout the entire year. We had an absolute blast when we visited with our son and we were thrilled since he could get on some of the rides, even though, he was not even 2 years old!
Check out Sea Life Aquarium
The Sea Life Aquarium is technically part of the Legoland theme park, as it is part of the same resort. However, you need to get separate tickets to enjoy this intriguing marine life world. Despite being fairly small, the Sea Life Aquarium is home to more than 350 different species. Check out their educational and feeding schedule beforehand to make the most out of your visit. Walking through the glass tunnel and spotting sea turtles, stingrays, sharks and more was our son’s favorite part of our visit to the Sea Life Aquarium.
Carlsbad Strawberry Company
You cannot miss the expansive fields of Carlsbad Strawberry Company as you drive along the I-5 towards Carlsbad. With four generations of farming experience, they offer a delightful u-pick experience for families year-round. Strawberry-picking season runs from February to July, when visitors can purchase a bucket and fill it to their heart’s content. In the fall, the fields transform into a vibrant pumpkin patch complete with corn mazes. A petting zoo and tractor rides add to the excitement, making it an ideal destination for a fun family-friendly afternoon.
Flower Fields
One of the top seasonal activities in Carlsbad is taking a stroll through the stunning flower fields, which welcome visitors from March to May with a vibrant display of blooming flowers. Spanning nearly 55 acres, the fields feature a breathtaking array of ranunculus flowers. In addition to the floral displays, guests can enjoy a greenhouse, a tractor ride, a u-pick blueberry experience, a sweet pea maze, a kids’ play area, and more. Be sure to book your tickets online in advance, as they sell out quickly, and check the calendar for special live music events!
Check Out the State Street Farmers Market
If you are in Carlsbad on a Wednesday, do not miss the State Street Farmers Market. Starting at 14:30 local vendors set up their stands at the Carlsbad Village, ready to welcome you with a friendly smile, fresh produce, and delicious baked goods. You will find a variety of offerings, from organic fruits and vegetables to tasty beef jerky. Plus, enjoy hot meals from Turkish, Indian, and Kenyan cuisines, perfect for a quick and easy lunch. The market is definitely one of the best things to do in Carlsbad.
Find a Volcano at Lake Calavera
Many would be surprised to know they can explore an extinct volcano in San Diego County. Yes, Lake Calavera is a beautiful nature oasis sitting on an extinct volcano, which erupted close to 20 million years ago. Nowadays, visitors can choose between numerous hiking trails, some leading to the peak, and others guiding you on a scenic route along the lake. Lake Calavera is one of our family’s favorite spots for hiking in the area. As a hidden gem away from the tourist crowds, Lake Calavera is one best things to do in Carlsbad.
Hike at Batiquitos Lagoon
With its 610 acres, Batiquitos Lagoon is home to more than 230 bird species making it the ideal spot for birdwatching in Carlsbad. The 1.3-mile path running along the lagoon’s north shore is among our family’s favorite trails in the area. Relatively flat, and shaded in the early morning and late afternoons, the trail is also perfect for toddlers who want to run around and explore. Despite being able to see the traffic on the highway in the distance, Batiquitos Lagoon is a small hidden gem and one of the best things to do in Carlsbad.
Where to Stay in Carlsbad, California?
Make Music at the Museum of Making Music
The Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad offers a distinctive collection of interactive exhibits that celebrate the rich history and culture of American music. Featuring a diverse array of musical instruments, the museum highlights the music industry’s evolution. It is an excellent destination for families, where both kids and adults can experiment with playing the piano, the guitar or just banging on the drums, truly engaging in the joy of making music. This museum is one of the best things to do in Carlsbad for families!
Explore Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park
Covering 27 acres of serene natural landscape, Leo Carrillo Ranch was once a working ranch. The 19th-century hacienda serves as the park’s centerpiece, but it is the stunning outdoor grounds that truly enhance its tranquility. Take your time to roam the grounds and you might be lucky to spot the colorful peacocks of the property (unfortunately, we did not, but will probably be going back to try again). The entrance is free and you can spend a good amount of time walking and exploring this hidden gem and experiencing its peaceful charm! Our son loved running around and we enjoyed a small picnic on a sunny weekend.
Go on a Shopping Spree at Carlsbad Premium Outlets
With an incredible collection of more than 80 designer stores, Carlsbad Premium Outlets is the best shopping destination in North San Diego County. As an outdoor shopping complex, you will find the setting quite relaxing even on the busiest sale days. Brand outlet stores, such as Adidas, Coach, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and more offer savings of up to 65% making the outlet a great spot for a quick (or not so much) shopping spree.
Go Go Karting
For high-speed enthusiasts, K1 Speed in Carlsbad can be a fun and exciting activity. It is only a 15-minute drive away from Oceanside, with a range of different race options. It is best to book in advance to ensure availability and get a small discount.
Watersports at Carlsbad Lagoon
Agua Hedionda Lagoon is an ideal destination for watersport enthusiasts. Here, you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, jet skis, and boats to immerse yourself in the refreshing experience of being on the water. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this lagoon offers something for everyone.
Book a Tour in Carlsbad
Have you been to Carlsbad, California? What are your favorite things to do in Carlsbad? Let us know in the comments section below!
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