Life’s a Beach in Carlsbad

Whether it's finding the best swell to take your board to, finding the most expansive stretch of sand to create sandcastles with the kids, pitching a tent to catch a West Coast sunset, or finding the best spot to soak up the sun, Carlsbad beaches offer residents and visitors the perfect setting for whichever type of beach day you’re after. Here’s a quick rundown of the top beaches in the city for surfers, families, and sunbathers:

Surfers

North Ponto Beach is one of two access points within South Carlsbad State Beach. The northern portion (as indicated by the name) is a narrow stretch of sand that serves as the perfect launch off spot for surfers who are looking to catch a swell during high tide. When the tide isn’t too high, the beach opens up enough for a walk beneath the campground.

Location: 6039-6325 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

South Ponto Beach, on the other hand offers a much wider expanse of sand for surfers and sunbathers alike. This location is popular in the summer months and has multiple vantage points both on the beach and above the bluffs to view the ocean. Surfers enjoy the swell at this beach while their fans and friends enjoy the sand and views.

Families

Tamarack State Beach is also located within Carlsbad State Beach. This beach is the epitome of a family friendly escape, with a large parking lot and multiple entry points with easy-to-access stairways. There are facilities onsite for kids and parents alike and the wide sandy beach extends far in each direction.

Location: 101 Tamarack Ave, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Connecting Tamarack State Beach and Frazee Beach are two excellent walking paths. From the top of the bluff or the back of the beach, beachgoers can get a nice stroll in while enjoying the ocean air. Robert C. Frazee State Beach is one of the great beach options within Carlsbad State Beach. Frazee Beach is similar to Tamarack in that it is wide and sandy. It is typically a bit less crowded than Tamarack but offers the same beauty and landscape to lay down some towels and umbrellas and let the kids splash around, without the lifeguards and facilities that attract most visitors to Tamarack.

Location: 3261 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Camping

For beachgoers who are looking to pitch a tent and stay awhile, South Carlsbad State Beach is a three-mile long beach in front of the South Carlsbad Campground. The campground is located above the beach with multiple staircases to get down to the water. The direct access for campers is convenient and picturesque. Non-campers can only access the beach below the campsite via a walk through North or South Ponto beach.

Location: 7201 Carlsbad Blvd, South Carlsbad State Beach, Carlsbad, CA 92008

The heat of the summer is right around the corner. With Carlsbad beaches, families, surfers and sunbathers can all find the perfect spot to soak up the rays and cool down in the water.

To view all of the available beaches in Carlsbad, visit https://visitcarlsbad.com/beaches/