Introduction
Carlsbad is the perfect destination for a family vacation, especially if you’re looking for something unique and different from the typical beach destination. Not only does Carlsbad offer amazing beaches and attractions, but it’s also home to some of California’s most gorgeous flower fields (especially in the springtime). The city of Carlsbad has plenty of places to stay as well as restaurants and activities for all ages—it’s one of our top picks!
Tamarack Beach
Tamarack Beach is a great place to go for a swim, and it’s located in Carlsbad California. In addition to swimming, Tamarack Beach is also popular for picnics. There are tables and even grills for use by visitors. The beach has a lifeguard on duty who will watch you while you enjoy your day at the beach.
The Flower Fields
- The first thing you’ll notice is the bright colors.
- You can’t help but stop to paint a picture of the fields with your eyes.
- The flowers were planted in honor of the late Helen Hunt Jackson, who wrote a book about how California’s Native Americans were treated after being forced to relocate from their homes by Anglo settlers. She went on to become an advocate for Indian rights and protections, influencing several laws that protect endangered species and provide them with land protection.
- Directions: Take I-5 North until you reach Exit 5 (Carlsbad Boulevard). Turn left onto Carlsbad Boulevard and follow it for about 10 miles until you see signs for Flower Fields at Legoland on your right, just before the Legoland entrance turnoff (if you pass Legoland on your left then you’ve gone too far).
Carlsbad Village
Carlsbad Village is a shopping district in Carlsbad, California. It boasts more than 100 stores and restaurants. With so many places to choose from, it’s the perfect place for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Carlsbad Lagoon
Carlsbad Lagoon is a great place to go bird watching, walking, biking, fishing, swimming, or boating. The lagoon also has nature walks where you can see various plants and animals including the bald eagle which can be seen in this area during migration season.
Bikers are encouraged to use the trail on an off-road bike path that passes through Carlsbad State Beach Park. This 5-mile-long trail runs along an abandoned railroad grade that goes between two restored railway stations: one at Carlsbad Village Station Museum and another at San Diego County Fairgrounds Station Museum.
Harry’s Farmers Market
If you’re looking for an experience that’s a little more country, head to Harry’s Farmers Market. This is where you’ll find farm fresh produce, local and organic produce, farm fresh eggs, grass-fed beef and pork—and even fresh baked bread. You can pick up some beautiful flowers for your home here as well if you need to brighten up the place!
This market is open daily and has been around since 2003.
Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch and Park
The Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch and Park are located in Carlsbad. The park contains a historic ranch, which includes several buildings that were once inhabited by members of the famous Mexican family. The ranch also has other attractions such as hiking trails, horseback riding, and bicycle rentals for those who want to explore the area on their own.
The park is open to the public and it’s located near the beach, making it an ideal place for families with children to visit on vacation. It’s also one of the largest parks in San Diego County so there are plenty of options when it comes time to plan activities within its boundaries!
Carlsbad Seapointe Resort Heated Pool & Whirlpool
The Carlsbad Seapointe Resort is an excellent location for a relaxing day at the pool. It has two outdoor pools, one heated during the summer months and one kiddie pool for kids. It also features a hot tub, which is great for those days when it’s not quite warm enough to stay in the sun all day.
The resort has hours of operation from 9 am-9 pm every day, with extended hours until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays during peak season (June 1st – September 30th). Admission costs $17 per person over 14 years old; children aged 8-13 years old are $12 while kids under 7 are free of charge.
The only thing you’ll have to pay extra for is parking: cars cost $2 per hour while trucks and RVs cost $4 per hour. There’s no additional fee if you reserve online ahead of time! For even more savings, consider purchasing a resort membership card that allows access without any admission fee–you’ll just have to pay the daily parking fee mentioned above instead of buying tickets upfront at check-in ($3/day). The card can be purchased through memberships@seapointeresorts.com (or by calling 1-(619)-849-9999).
Aviara Golf Club
Aviara Golf Club is designed by Jack Nicklaus, one of the most acclaimed golf course architects in the world. It features 6,800 yards of pristine golfing terrain and a par 72 layout that offers golfers a challenge on every hole. With a slope rating of 133 and a course rating of 74.9, Aviara Golf Club will challenge even the most experienced golfer while providing an exciting experience for players at all levels.
Carlsbad Skatepark
If you have your skateboard, this park is one of the best places to ride around in Carlsbad. The park is free and open to all ages, so it’s a great place for kids to practice their tricks with friends.
The park features ramps that vary in difficulty level and obstacles for all skill levels. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced rider looking for new challenges, this park has something for everyone!
Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum
The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum is an amazing place to learn about the history of miniature engineering. You will see many examples of these intricate works of art, and learn about the history behind them.
The museum is relatively small and easy to explore in just a few minutes. There are over 50 pieces on display that have been donated by their creators or collectors. These creations range from cars to trains, ships to planes, toys, and even a solar system model with moving planets! If you’re looking for something more interactive than reading signs at a museum, check out their gift shop where you can buy replicas of some of these models for yourself!
Museum of Making Music
The Museum of Making Music is a great place for anyone who enjoys music or learning about how it’s made. It’s located in Carlsbad, which means that it’s accessible by train or car. The museum has educational exhibits, including a variety of musical instruments and displays on the history of music production.
The museum also hosts concerts and live shows that you can check out if you’re visiting during its hours of operation (Tuesday through Sunday). You can find more details about these events on their website or social media channels (Facebook, Twitter).
If you are looking for something relaxing and educational to do with your family or friends, I highly recommend checking out this museum!
Guajome Regional Park
Guajome Regional Park is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful scenery of Carlsbad. The park covers over 1,000 acres of land and includes trails that range from easy to more difficult. There are a variety of picnic areas to choose from depending on what you’re looking for: group or individual tables; shade or sun; quiet or with music playing in the background.
Guajome also has restrooms and playgrounds so your children can run off some excess energy before continuing their adventures in nature. In addition to hiking trails, Guajome offers a dog park where you can let Fido run around off-leash while you enjoy some peace away from city life!
If you’re interested in learning more about what makes this region so special then check out its nature center which features interactive displays about wildlife habitats found here as well as information about how residents use these resources today (and historically). You might even see some live animals like snakes!
Conclusion
Carlsbad is a place where you can spend the day relaxing, enjoying nature, and taking in the sights. There are many things to do and see in this San Diego suburb, so plan your trip accordingly. You will not regret visiting Carlsbad!
