Best hotels in Carlsbad
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
1929 Palomar Oaks Way, CA, 92011
Ideal for both business and leisure visitors, the Fairfield Inn is just three miles from the beach, and a short drive to Legoland, gold courses and the nearby business parks. Recently built, the hotel offers excellent amenities including a pool, fitness and business centers and well-appointed rooms.
Legoland Hotel
One Legoland Dr, CA, 92008
If you’re visiting Legoland, there’s no better place to stay than this colorful hotel just seconds from the main gate. Kids will go crazy for the themed rooms – whether they want Pirate, Adventure, Ninjago, LEGO Friends or Kingdom, and even a dip in the pool is accompanied by huge floating chunks of Lego.
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
2100 Costa Del Mar Rd, CA, 92009
For an upscale stay, grab a reservation at the Omni La Costa. A former equestrian ranch, it now has two PGA golf courses, ample pools and entertainment for children, and a lavish spa. Former guests include the Rat Pack, Jackie Kennedy, President Nixon and more – it still attracts celebrities aplenty for its relaxed vibe and discrete service.
Best restaurants in Carlsbad
Campfire
2725 State St, CA, 92008
Carlsbad wasn’t on anyone’s food radar until Campfire landed in town. It managed to introduce a perfect blends of ambience and food, hospitality and décor – one of those places that just gets it right straight away. Join your friends or family round the fire for the likes of quail with dukkah, pork T-bone with Brussels sprouts and jalapeno, or whatever is seasonal.
Jeune et Jolie
2659 State St, CA, 92008
Opened by a graduate of the kitchen at Campfire, Jeune et Jolie is on the same strip and once again completely nails its concept. The décor is modern California, with curved banquettes of peachy-pink, and you’ll be torn between the views of the ocean or the open kitchen. Menus change but might include gems such as aged duck with rhubarb, beers and black garlic.
Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar
2958 Madison St #100, CA, 92008
Perfectly judged Asian cuisine and lip-smackingly fresh sushi and sashimi in the California sunshine – what’s not to love? It gets better: In the afternoon they light their robata grill for perfectly charred octopus, pork belly, vegetables and more.
What to do in Carlsbad
Legoland California
One Legoland Dr, CA, 92008
A theme park with a creative angle, Legoland is as colorful as the many-hued blocks, which there is absolutely no escaping from once you step inside. There are dozens of rides here, catering for kids from toddlers upwards, lots of interactive experiences and, of course, a chance or two to purchase Lego itself. Upgrade your ticket for entrance to the adjacent water park.
Carlsbad Ranch Flower Fields
5704 Paseo del Norte, CA, 92008
A rainbow of color from March to May, the flower fields cover 50 acres with views of the coast. In bloom, the ranunculus create a beautiful display, while there’s plenty more going on on-site, with wagon rides, a maze and a greenhouse full of precious orchids.
The coast
CA, 92008
Carlsbad’s enviably long stretch of coastline contains numerous beaches, so just drive up and take your pick. Lounge on the white sand of South Carlsbad State Beach if you can’t choose – it’s great for those looking to relax and those in search of watersports, diving and surfing. Some of the best waves are at Tamarack Beach while, further down the coast, South Ponto Beach is renowned for its magical sunsets.