Activities for Everyone and then Some

As a visitor to Carlsbad, you are limited only by your time and sense of adventure. Perfectly situated between the glamour of Los Angeles and the laid-back lifestyle of San Diego, Carlsbad is host to unmatched shopping, dining, beaches, golf, nature and attractions such as LEGOLAND® California, sporting events and seasonal festivals.

Agua Hedionda Lagoon

Agua Hedionda Lagoon

A popular recreation area providing opportunities for boating, water skiing, personal watercraft, boardsailing and fishing. Currently, fishing is allowed only in the designated Passive Use area in the lower east end of the lagoon. Anchoring is prohibited in the entire lagoon.... More
Batiquitos Lagoon

Batiquitos Lagoon

A scenic nature trail runs along the north shore of the lagoon and is complete with benches, trail markings and informational plaques all managed by the California Department of Fish and Game. The lagoon is tranquil and unspoiled, providing safe haven for a wide variety of wildlife and is ideal for birding and nature walks.... More
Buena Vista Lagoon

Buena Vista Lagoon

Over 200 acres of freshwater marshlands and home to over 200 species of wildlife and 50 species of plants make this a regular haunt of serious and casual bird watchers. Flocks of native and migratory birds, including threatened and endangered species, regional ducks and geese, turtles, frogs, even an occasional flamingo, share the Lagoon.... More
Carlsbad City Beach

Carlsbad City Beach

Carlsbad City Beach is located along Ocean Street at Carlsbad Village Drive. Parking is free in the lot at the south end of the street. This beach includes a 4-mile paved walking path. A popular sunset watching spot is at the north end of the beach.... More
Carlsbad State Beach

Carlsbad State Beach

Perfect for swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing and beachcombing. Easily accessible at the foot of the coastal bluffs located on Carlsbad Boulevard, at Tamarack . The beach walk at the top of the bluffs is a favorite place to jog, walk the dog or enjoy the sights. Just below the bluffs is the seawall walkway just for pedestrians. The Village is al... More
South Carlsbad State Beach

South Carlsbad State Beach

Located three miles south of Carlsbad on Carlsbad Boulevard. This is a popular beach that has camp sites at the top of the bluffs. A great beach to enjoy all family beach activities.... More
Carlsbad Golf Center

Carlsbad Golf Center

Carlsbad Golf Center's friendly, knowledgeable staff is ready to meet your every golfing need. Their pro shop stocks extensive selections of balls, gloves, bags, travel covers, performance apparel and shoes. The lighted practice facility features a driving range, putting green, practice bunker, and experienced PGA & LPGA instructors if you need a l... More
Four Seasons Resort Aviara Golf

Four Seasons Resort Aviara Golf

Honored in 2008 as Conde Nast Travelers #1 golf resort in SoCal, Four Seasons Resort Aviara Golf Club offers superb golf facilities. The 18-hole, par 72 course was designed by Arnold Palmer. The course is sculpted around natural topography, with water hazards positioned as visual extensions of the adjacent Batiquitos Lagoon.... More
La Costa Resort and Spa

La Costa Resort and Spa

Our two PGA Championship 18-hole golf courses are both beautiful and traditional in design, providing a formidable challenge to a golfers shotmaking ability, both off the tee, and around the greens. Plus four sets of tees provide a golf course length for all players to enjoy.... More
The Crossings at Carlsbad

The Crossings at Carlsbad

The Crossings at Carlsbad is a must play golf course for those seeking a challenging, risk-reward golf adventure. Voted by GOLF Magazine as one of the Top 10 New Courses You Can Play, The Crossings at Carlsbad is more than just a golf course as it captures the warm friendly spirit of its own unique seaside community.... More
Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Southern California premiere upscale outlet shopping, featuring over 80 well-known designers, manufacturers and specialty retailers. Unique features include full- service dining at Bellefleur Winery & Restaurant and Ruby's Diner. Located between Palomar Airport & Cannon Roads, 1 block east of I-5. Open 10 am daily... More
Carlsbad Village Art and Antique Mall

Carlsbad Village Art and Antique Mall

Located two blocks North of Carlsbad Village Drive, the 15,000 square foot building displays over 100 Artists and Antique Dealers. Open Daily 10:30am to 5pm.... More
Fairen Del

Fairen Del

The place in Carlsbad to find hundreds of beautiful things - from handbags and jewelry to luggage and great gifts. Shop Fairen Del for unique bridal jewlery, treasured gifts, men's and women's accessories and home accents. Open Monday - Saturday 10-7 and Sunday from 11-6.... More
Janika Designs

Janika Designs

International Fashion Bazaar - Specializing in soft, flowing Moroccan clothing and accessories. Natural fiber cottons from Mexico and Guatemala as well as exotic prints and batiks from Bali. Wooden hand-carved cats, fish, frogs from Indonesia and wall decor, musical instruments from Africa. Open 7 days a week. M-S 10-6, Sun 11-5.... More
KOBO

KOBO

Before you head to the beach, shop here for beachwear! With name brands like Loco Lindo, Uggs and Fresh Produce, you're sure to find the perfect beachwear. For visitors, this is the spot to buy souvenirs. T-shirts, sweatshirts, baseball caps, and beach bags with the Carlsbad name.... More
Ohana Creations

Ohana Creations

Aloha ... We specialize in floral leis, unique Hawaiian gifts, and compete floral services with worldwide delivery! Visit our store in beautiful downtown Carlsbad or place your order at our website!! Gift Baskets filled with Hawaiian goodies are available and may be shipped anywhere ... Mahalo Nui Loa... More
Old Blue Jeans (OBJs)

Old Blue Jeans (OBJs)

Shop where the Locals do. OBJs carries a wide variety of Levi's, Hawaiian Shirts, Shorts, Sandals, Dresses and Tops. All at affordable prices. Open Seven Days for your shopping convenience... More
Ragz Dressware

Ragz Dressware

This small, intimate shop offers high-fashion designs for women. New fashions arrive weekly and styles are never duplicated. The shop caters to local clientele, offering personalized service and attentive staff.... More
Shop Carlsbad Village

Shop Carlsbad Village

Known as "The Village by the Sea," Carlsbad has the charm of a European village. Its many shops and boutiques, sidewalk cafes and romantic hotels are just a short walk from the beach. After browsing in the delightful shops and relaxing over lunch at a sidewalk cafe, you will succumb to Carlsbad's charms.... More
The Bwarie Gift Basket Company

The Bwarie Gift Basket Company

Gift Baskets are the ultimate gift for all occasions, from client appreciation to special events for family and friends. At The Bwarie Gift Basket Company, each gift basket is personally constructed to include unique items - there are no cookie cutter baskets unless you are sending a gift to a baker! Send a message that will last long after the win... More
The Forum at Carlsbad

The Forum at Carlsbad

The Forum offers a unique mix of stores and restaurants in an open, easily accessible setting. Shop stores such as Border's, Talbots, Coldwater Creek, Brad Larsen Floral, Z. Gallerie, The Rare Earth (TRE) and Chico's. Restaurants like Sushi on The Rock, Jimbo's, The Wine Loft and Sur La Table satisfy a broad range of culinary tastes and instruction... More
The Poached Pear

The Poached Pear

The Poached Pear, located in beautiful downtown Carlsbad, is an upscale home decor store specializing in unique gifts. In the store you might find Italian ceramics and dinnerware, Peruvian furniture, Mario Batali kitchen tools, distinctive bedding, candles, and much more. Store Hours are Monday - Friday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm.... More
Village Faire Shopping Centre

Village Faire Shopping Centre

Enjoy over 30 fine shops, galleries, specialty boutiques, salons and restaurants plus the Carlsbad Children's Museum. Free afternoon concerts performed every Sunday at 2 p.m. from June 18 until September 3 in the courtyard of the shopping center. Conveniently located at the corner of Carlsbad Village Drive and Carlsbad Blvd.... More
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The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

Picture yourself in a sea of vibrant spring flowers stretching as far as the eye can see. Carlsbad's famous flower fields, located on the coast of San Diego's North County, are in bloom from early March, through late April. The flowers cover about a mile of hillside along Interstate 5, north of Palomar Airport Road.... More
LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California is a 128-acre theme park for families with children ages 3 to 12. With three coasters and 47 other rides and attractions, LEGOLAND provides "minds on" and "hands on" fun and learning. Interactive shows, healthy food and the largest selection of LEGO merchandise in the country.... More
SEA LIFE Aquarium

SEA LIFE Aquarium

More than a standard aquarium, SEA LIFE Aquarium provides an educational and interactive dynamic unlike any other. Featuring play zones, fun facts and quiz trails, SEA LIFE is designed to be a child's interactive guide to the life of the sea.... More
Museum of Making Music

Museum of Making Music

This unique museum has exhibits that include more that 450 vintage instruments and samples of the most memorable tunes spanning more than 100 years. The museum puts the music products industry into historical context, so you see the connection between making history and making music.... More
K1 Speed

K1 Speed

Looking for the perfect introduction to go kart racing in San Diego? Our North County indoor karting track in Carlsbad is for you. With speeds approaching 40mph on the straightaway and other racers vying for position all around you, you're sure to feel the rush!... More
New Village Arts Theatre

New Village Arts Theatre

Now in its 8th season of producing plays, New Village Arts Theatre has become the most critically acclaimed theatre in North County San Diego. Thanks to the support of the City of Carlsbad, NVA has spent the last year and a half thrilling patrons in Carlsbad Village in the 99-seat theater.... More
Painted Hydrants Walking Tour

Painted Hydrants Walking Tour

Twenty-six fire hydrants in the Village have been "adopted" by businesses and individuals to promote art, activity and community involvement in our seaside downtown area. The unique fire hydrant art reflects the many faces and facets of Carlsbad - our heritage, location and lifestyle.... More
Alt Karlsbad

Alt Karlsbad

Site of the historic mineral springs water well which was once a thriving business catering to travelers from Hollywood and beyond. The historic well is in operation and known as Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa.... More
Army and Navy Academy

Army and Navy Academy

Established in 1910, a college-preparatory, military, residential and day school for young men grades 7-12, celebrates its centennial in 2010. The 16.5 acre campus is a beachfront property and is home to a massive Moreton Bay fig tree, one of more than 100 historical trees identified in the Village area.... More
Barrio Museum

Barrio Museum

The Barrio Museum is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of early agricultural workers to the life and growth of Carlsbad. Located at 3304 Roosevelt Street.... More
Gemological Institute of America

Gemological Institute of America

Educator to the gem and jewelry industry, GIA offers tours through the world of diamonds, gems and jewelry. View the 55-ft. Tower of Brilliance, a 1-ton crystal octahedron, largest in the world, donated by Swarovski. At sunset, shimmering crystals light up the sky by the rotation of the tower.... More
Historic Highway 101

Historic Highway 101

Historic Coast Highway 101 winds through many idyllic beachside towns, offers a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean, and is an alternative to freeway travel. "See and be seen" along the roadway that made Southern California a famous seaside getaway.... More
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park

Leo Carrillo Ranch, also known as Rancho de Los Kiotes,is Carlsbad's Sleeping Beauty - an historic rancho in Carlsbad, California. A registered California Historical Landmark and Listed on The National Register of Historic Places.Hours of Operation: Tues - Sat / 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM & Sun / 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM... More
Lynn Forbes School of Sculpture

Lynn Forbes School of Sculpture

A leader among schools, the Lynn Forbes School of Sculpture is a serious, world-class sculpture studio that stresses fundamentals of Classical Greek sculptors. While basis for understanding form and technique is grounded in the great masters of classical art, the methodology adds unique modern twists that help students more effectively achieve prof... More
Magee House

Magee House

Samuel Church Smith, one of Carlsbad's founding fathers, built Magee House back in 1887. Now the site of the Carlsbad Historical Society, this quaint cottage was also home to foreign service officer Alexander Shipley. The house is open for touring, with bedrooms, a kitchen and parlors all decorated with artifacts from the period.... More
U-Pick Strawberries

U-Pick Strawberries

Strawberries have been growing at the Cannon Road location in Carlsbad for over 40 years. The temperate climate in Carlsbad and the proximity to the Pacific Ocean makes for ideal strawberry growing conditions. The cool marine layer allows the harvest of berries into the summer, sometimes until the end of July.... More
Carlsbad Skateboard Park

Carlsbad Skateboard Park

A free 15,000-square-foot facility located between the fire station and police station. The Carlsbad Skatepark offers a good mix of street and small transition skateboarding. The flow of the park is decent and offers some good lines. Safety gear is a must. Hours are 8 am to 10 pm.... More
Carlsbad Trail System

Carlsbad Trail System

The Citywide Trails Program offers 27 miles of unpaved recreational trails that wind through open hills covered with native chaparral, winds through forests of stately eucalyptus trees and meanders along panoramic lagoons. There are also 48 miles of bike lanes.... More
Hosp Grove

Hosp Grove

Hosp Grove has 3 miles of unpaved trails that wind through a forest of eucalyptus trees. The 100-ft. rise in elevation can cause moderate-to-difficult inclines.... More
Rancho Carrillo Trails

Rancho Carrillo Trails

Rancho Carrillo Trails have about 4 miles of unpaved, gently sloping trails. The trails are broad and wind through open spaces of riparian woodland, freshwater marsh, baccharis scrub and non-native grasslands.... More
Aviara Trails

Aviara Trails

Aviara Trails have 8 miles of unpaved choices for hikers, walkers and runners, from steep hills with superb views to shady almost level paths. Trails include, Golf View Trail, Salt Marsh Trail, Eucalyptus Trail, and the longest and best known, Lagoon Trail. Interpretive signs along the way identify birds and plants and the geology and ecology of th... More
Mission San Luis Rey

Mission San Luis Rey

The largest of California's 21 missions. San Luis Rey dominates the skyline on the eastern edge of Oceanside. The museum houses exhibits relating to the unique and colorful history of Mission San Luis Rey de Francia. Its collections include artifacts from Native American, Spanish Mission, Mexican Secularization, and American Military periods.... More
Camp Pendleton

Camp Pendleton

Home to The Marine Corps Mechanized Command Museum, Ranch House Chapel, Santa Margarita National Historic Site, WWII and Korea LVT Exhibit. Camp Pendleton is the largest West Coast expeditionary training facility and hosts an average daytime population of around 60,000. Tours are by appointment only.... More
Marine Corps Mech. Command Museum

Marine Corps Mech. Command Museum

The Marine Corps Mechanized Museum is a Marine Corps Command Museum located on Camp Pendleton in north San Diego County, California. The Marine Corps Mechanized Museum offers one of the largest and most unique collections of operational historical military vehicles in the United States.... More
Ranch House Complex

Ranch House Complex

The complex includes the Ranch House Chapel, the oldest structure on base, the Bunkhouse Museum, dedicated in 1978 by Col James Roosevelt, and the Ranch House, built in the mid 1800s.... More
WWII and Korea LVT Exhibit

WWII and Korea LVT Exhibit

Located in Building 21561 in the base's boat basin and maintained by the Assault Amphibious School Battalion. To visit the vintage amphibious tracked vehicles, related artifacts and informational displays, contact the school at 725-2195.... More
Oceanside Pier and Harbor

Oceanside Pier and Harbor

Stroll on Oceanside's landmark pier for a unique vantage point of the beautiful coastline. The quaint harbor with hundreds of small sailboats is also a departure point for deep-sea fishing and whale watching.... More
Sunset Sail

Sunset Sail

Enjoy the fresh breeze and soothing sounds of the ocean on our comfortable well-equipped sailboat in a spacious fully cushioned cockpit that seats six easily. The main deck offers excellent visibility and seating arrangements, perfect for Oceanside, California coastal cruising and fishing charters.... More
California Surf Museum

California Surf Museum

The California Surf Museum serves as an international repository and resource center on the lifestyle sport of surfing through capturing, preserving, and chronicling its art, culture and heritage for the education and enjoyment of future generations.... More
Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum

Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum

Depicts the 1849-1949 era of an Early California Farm. Located on 55 acres, spring and fall tractor shows take visitors from "the field to the kitchen" and depict highlights of the farmer's life during this period.... More
Temecula Valley Wine Country

Temecula Valley Wine Country

Temecula Valley Wine Country includes twenty wineries and hundreds of award-winning wines. The rolling hills of the vineyards of Temecula Valley are only a sip away.... More
San Diego Botanic Gardens

San Diego Botanic Gardens

San Diego Botanic Garden features numerous exhibits, including rare bamboo groves, desert gardens, a tropical rainforest, California native plants, Mediterranean climate landscapes, succulent gardens, an herb garden, firesafe landscaping, a subtropical fruit garden, and native coastal sage natural areas.... More
Del Mar Fairgrounds & Racetrack

Del Mar Fairgrounds & Racetrack

While trade shows and exhibits are held throughout the year, the fairgrounds really come alive in mid-June until early July when it becomes the site of the Del Mar Fair and for horse racing season beginning in late July. Don't miss the Holiday of Lights displayed Thanksgiving through January.... More
San Diego Wild Animal Park

San Diego Wild Animal Park

Experience a unique adventure at the 2,100-acre San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park, where animals wander freely in surroundings much like their native homelands. Truly a zoo unlike traditional zoos. Live the adventure at one of the Wild Animal Park's overnight excursions. It's a great place for kids and adults of all ages!... More
Palomar Observatory

Palomar Observatory

High atop Palomar Mountain, this world renowned observatory with its powerful telescope is amust stop for star gazers. The surrounding countryside is as inspiring as the sky above.... More
Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

With exhibits to touch, virtual reality to experience, films to see and fun to be had, the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is an educational, entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. The Science Center features more than 100 interactive science exhibits in five galleries, as well as major traveling exhibitions.... More
ARCO Olympic Training Center

ARCO Olympic Training Center

An official U.S. Olympic Committee training facility dedicated to the development of America's current and future Olympic athletes participating in nine sports including archery, rowing, canoe/kayak, soccer, softball, field hockey, tennis, track and field, and cycling. See athletes training, take a free guided tour and shop at the Olympic Spirit St... More
Balboa Park

Balboa Park

Clustered within this magnificent 1,400 acre park in downtown San Diego are a dozen or more attractions. Some of the major ones are: The San Diego Zoo, The Old Globe Theatre, The Reuben H. Fleet Space Theatre, The Timkin Art Gallery, The Natural History Museum and more.... More
Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Explore where the wonders of the ocean come alive! Their mission is to provide ocean science education, to interpret Scripps Institution of Oceanography research, and to promote ocean conservation. Enter the world of sharks, seahorses, living coral reefs and more, and discover a stunning variety of Pacific marine life in more than 60 habitats.... More
Gaslamp Quarter

Gaslamp Quarter

Vibrant, eclectic, and endlessly entertaining, the Gaslamp Quarter covers more than 16 city blocks of downtown San Diego, with hundreds of specialty shops and dozens of trendy restaurants, bars and avant-garde playhouses. Most of the shops keep late hours, so delightful shopping, drinking, and dining can occur virtually simultaneously.... More
Knott's Soak City U.S.A.

Knott's Soak City U.S.A.

The surf's up at Knott's Soak City San Diego the largest water park in the area. Sporting a theme of surf woodies and long boards, this 33 acre water park features 24 water slides and attractions. The park also has locker rentals, all-day inner tube rentals, plus a gift shop. Private cabanas with wait service are also available.... More
Old Town San Diego State Historical Park

Old Town San Diego State Historical Park

Where San Diego was born. Historical buildings on spacious grounds share the park with gift shops and unique restaurants. Mariachi bands and fold dancers perform each weekend. A nearby Sierra Museum features exhibits of San Diego's heritage.... More
San Diego Harbor Excursion

San Diego Harbor Excursion

Harbor tours, nightly dinner dance cruises, private charters, special event/holiday cruises, ferry to Coronado, winter whale watching, water taxi. San Diego Harbor Excursion invites you to come cruise with them and see why this historic company has been in business for so long.... More
San Diego Maritime Museum

San Diego Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum of San Diego enjoys a worldwide reputation for excellence in restoring, maintaining and operating historic vessels. The museum has one of the world's finest collections of historic ships, including the world's oldest active ship Star of India. Our collection of ships and exhibits are available for daily public tours.... More
San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is more than a zoo: it is a sanctuary for thousands of animals, a landscape of rare plants from all climates and a living classroom that entertains as well as educates. The specially designed viewing areas in the Children's Zoo ensure that even the smallest guests see animals in action.... More
SeaWorld

SeaWorld

Celebrate the wonders of the sea at SeaWorld. Experience Shamu's show Believe, and thrilling rides like Journey To Atlantis, Shipwreck Rapids and Wild Arctic. It's a year full of fun at SeaWorld with seasonal events such as Summer Nights that sizzle with high-energy nighttime shows and fireworks.... More
SEAL Tours - Sea and Land Adventures

SEAL Tours - Sea and Land Adventures

This unique 2 hour narrated tour travels around San Diego by land and sea aboard an amphibious vehicle. On the Seal Tour, every seat is a good one; it's an open air tour vehicle that allows all guests to enjoy the tour with amazing views. Everyday, hundreds of adults and children are delighted with San Diego's most unique sightseeing experience.... More
Seaport Village

Seaport Village

A 14 acre waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex recreating a harbor side setting of a century ago. Includes 54 unique shops, 13 casual dining eateries and 4 fine dining waterfront restaurants. A monthly calendar features live musical entertainment including blues, jazz, country and swing.... More
USS Midway Museum - Navy Pier

USS Midway Museum - Navy Pier

The USS Midway Museum is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Go to sea without leaving port! Explore more than 60 exhibits with a collection of 25 restored aircraft. Located in downtown San Diego.... More
Barnstorming Adventures

Barnstorming Adventures

Offers bi-plane, air combat and warbird flights and is the oldest and largest fulltime vintage tour operator in the nation.... More
Cabrillo National Monument

Cabrillo National Monument

Climbing out of his boat and onto shore in 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo stepped into history as the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States. In addition to telling the story of 16th century exploration, the park is home to a wealth of cultural and natural resources. Join us and embark on your own Voyage of Dis... More
PETCO Park

PETCO Park

PETCO Park, home to the San Diego Padres, is a world-class ballpark and spectacular in every way, including its breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline.... More