Make Summer Unforgettable with Camps in Carlsbad 2026
Soon, school bells will ring for the final time in the school year, marking the start of summer in Carlsbad. From exciting camps that keep kids learning and exploring to family-family resorts perfect for a seasonal getaway, there are endless ways to make the summer one to remember.
Whether your child loves getting creative, spending time outdoors outdoors or hands-on learning, Carlsbad offers an impressive lineup of summer camps designed to spark curiosity and keep kids engaged all season long. Here’s our roundup of camps and experiences that will fill your child’s vacation with unforgettable memories.
Camps
Camp Galileo
At Camp Galileo, children will participate in hands-on activities that combine STEAM-based exploration and outdoor fun. Offering camps for grades K-8, each age group is tasked with an age-appropriate project that will challenge their thinking skills to create something truly amazing. The camps will be running from June 22 through July 31, with each week having a new theme to keep the kids inspired if they are attending for multiple weeks. It’s an ideal option for families seeking an enriching camp experience that still feels like summer vacation.
Summer Clay Camp
The Summer Clay Camp at Handled Pottery Studio will have your child creating clay masterpieces in no time. The 5-day long camps are geared toward ages 5-16, with projects tailored to different ages and skill levels. Each camp session runs in the morning and will provide the opportunity to experiment with hand building and the pottery wheel techniques. The supportive studio environment encourages creativity and self-expression, and campers leave with one-of-a-kind keepsakes to remember their summer by.
Discovery Camp at Agua Hedionda
Get your kids outdoors this summer at one of Carlsbad’s beautiful nature preserves with Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation. Discovery Camp is designed for children in grades K-5 and provides a unique opportunity for campers to learn about the natural beauty surrounding the lagoon and the wildlife that calls it home. From June 29 through Aug. 14, campers can participate in up-close nature interactions, hikes overlooking Agua Hedionda lagoon, crafts and other iactivities.
City of Carlsbad Summer Camps
This summer, the City of Carlsbad is hosting a variety of camps ranging from art and science exploration to cooking and sports clinics. They even have a few all-day camps for children ages 5-10 that are the perfect mix of arts and crafts, competitions and field trips.
Families can browse a wide range of options tailored to different interests and age groups, making it easy to find something that matches your child’s personality. The City of Carlsbad makes it simple to fill an entire summer schedule with meaningful activities while allowing children to try something new along the way.
Sur La Table Cooking Camps
This summer, Sur La Table is hosting summer camps for children aged 7-11 as well as a camp geared towards teens aged 12-17. The 5-day camps focus on teaching different culinary techniques, from baking to cuisines from around the world. Whether your child is new to the kitchen or already a pro, these camps will fill their summer days with tasty homemade food and skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
H2O Extreme Summer Camp
Have a hard time convincing your children to get out of the water? California Watersports H2O Extreme Summer Camp may be the perfect place for them this summer. Each 5-day camp will be filled with all sorts of watersports from stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking to pedal boating. Children aged 6-14 will have a wonderful time practicing their watersport skills and having fun with their friends playing beach games along the shore of the Carlsbad Lagoon.
Kid’s Clubs at Family Resorts
Family vacations just got better, thanks to the kid’s clubs at some of Carlsbad’s top resorts. Parents can have a moment to lounge by the pool or a romantic date night while the little ones are off making crafts and running off their energy.
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
Experience true Carlsbad luxury at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, where families can enjoy spacious rooms, eight sparkling pools and a variety of other resort amenities like Little Sprouts, the resort’s club just for kids. Offering a range of childcare options from half day, full day, hourly and day camps, it’s a great option for parents hoping to book a spa treatment or play a round of golf on the championship golf course while the children are entertained.
Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara
Nestled in the foothills of Carlsbad is the Four Seasons Residence, an idyllic spot to spend a family getaway in one of their fully furnished vacation homes. From curated land water adventures, spa treatments to days by the pool, there’s something for everyone to have an unforgettable summer break. At the Aviara Kids Club, children can hang out and choose from a variety of activities from video games to movies and board games. This kid-friendly space is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and children under 7 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
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Beyond the fantastic camps and resorts, families can turn a simple drop-off into a full day of fun by exploring Carlsbad’s beaches, lagoons, parks and vibrant village atmosphere.