The sun was just about to set as I arrived in Carlsbad, California. Located along a pristine stretch of Southern California coastline, about 35 miles north of San Diego, this seaside town beckons with its small-town charm and world-class attractions.
I had driven through the quaint town before arriving at my resort, the Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa. Set just steps from the beach, the boutique property offered a comfortable home base with its spacious rooms and thoughtful touches—like the complimentary Beach Butler Service that sets up a spot on the beach for you with loungers, umbrellas, and towels; complimentary bike rentals; and complimentary local shuttle service.
The sky was beginning to turn various shades of pink as I checked in, so I quickly headed out. It was just a few minutes to walk from my room to the edge of the ocean, where I dug my toes in the sand, the waves of the Pacific Ocean lapping at them as the sun streaked the sky with colors as it dipped below the horizon. It was so serene and peaceful, and a perfect welcome to this coastal playground that offers a mix of laidback charm, modern experiences, and a plethora of opportunities to both explore or relax.
Things to Do
Carlsbad offers more than just seven miles of pristine sandy beaches and perfect year-round temperatures. It’s a destination where relaxation and adventure live side by side, inviting you to slow down and savor the coastal lifestyle.
Water fun—from swimming to surfing—is abundant here, as is biking and hiking. Nearby attractions include LEGOLAND California Resort, the Museum of Making Music, and the famous Flower Fields of Carlsbad Ranch, where from March 1 through Mother’s Day each year, 50 acres of flowers create a rainbow-colored hillside.
At the heart of Carlsbad is Carlsbad Village, a charming destination filled with boutiques, restaurants, and wine bars (make sure to enjoy a wine tasting at Carruth Cellars!).
For those looking for additional shopping in Carlsbad, The Forum Carlsbad has an assortment of popular stores and is becoming a hub for health and wellness options. Carlsbad Premium Outlets is the place to find great deals from brands ranging from Marc Jacobs to Fashionphile.
If outdoor adventures are more your calling, California Watersports offers everything from kayaking and paddleboard to cute swan pedal boats, which you can use to explore Carlsbad Lagoon.
Where to Dine
Dining options abound in Carlsbad. A few standout favorites that I tried were The Naked Café, a health-conscious locale that offered a tasty and filling breakfast; Kai Ola Sushi; Campfire, which had upscale comfort food—and yes, s’mores for dessert; and Shorehouse Kitchen, which offers breakfast all day.
Another standout locale is Chandler’s Oceanfront Dining, an award-winning locale at Cape Rey resort, but open to the public. Large windows framed the ocean as I dined on a Blue Fin Tuna Poke Tostada appetizer and Chili Crusted Wild Caught Local Sea Bass.
Perhaps the most alluring quality of Carlsbad is its balance. It’s big enough to offer world-class amenities and attractions, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming, village-like feel. Whether you’re traveling with family, exploring with friends, or seeking a solo getaway, Carlsbad manages to be both energizing and restful. It’s a place that invites you to be as active as you’d like, and to linger, to breathe, and to savor every moment by the sea.
Carlsbad is a destination where relaxation and adventure live side by side, inviting you to slow down and savor the coastal lifestyle.