Voluntourism in Carlsbad: 4 Ways to Give Back While You Explore 2025

From habitat restoration to beach cleanups, you can pair your sun-soaked days with a little environmental activism so that you leave Carlsbad better than you found it. Here are a few ways that you can blend fun and purpose during your visit.

In the heart of Carlsbad, the Village is vibrant destination for dining, local shopping and unique art. It is also a center for community-driven care with volunteer cleanups taking place on a bi-monthly basis. In partnership with Handel’s Ice Cream and Pure Project, the Carlsbad Village Association hosts these events to keep this picturesque area litter free.

So far, over 3,475 pounds of trash have been removed from the streets of Carlsbad thanks to these volunteer events. Help continue these efforts and make a difference! If you’re interested in joining one of the clean-ups, head to Pure Project and be prepared to pick up trash from 9:30 am – 11:30 am. They’ll provide buckets, bags, plastic gloves and trash grabbers so that all you have to do is turn up. Afterwards, reward your efforts with a delicious ice cream at Handel’s or refreshing craft brew at Pure Project, both proud partners of the Carlsbad Village Clean Ups.

Looking for a hands-on way to connect with our local wetlands? The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation offers volunteers the chance to roll up their sleeves and protect one of Carlsbad’s ecological rich wetlands. The Foundation is the nonprofit responsible for preserving the beautiful Agua Hedionda Lagoon, and their Discovery Campus is full of animals and a range of educational displays so that you can learn more about the flora and fauna in the area.

Every Tuesday, volunteers work to remove invasive Algerian Sea Lavender along the waters of the lagoon. If you’re interested in joining, please contact larissa.fullmer@aguahedionda.org. For a full list of upcoming trail restoration events, take a look at their events calendar. These events are led by their experienced volunteers and staff so that you have guidance throughout the process. All tools will be provided and no experience is necessary, just come prepared to get a little dirty!

If the ocean is calling your name, consider spending a morning helping to protect it. Show some love for marine life and coastal ecosystems by participating in a beach cleanup hosted by the Surfrider Foundation, San Diego Chapter. Surfrider hosts these cleanups throughout San Diego County but during the summer months plans a volunteer event in Carlsbad on the fourth Saturday of the month.

These events are not only a great way to care for the coastline, but are a fun social activity for individuals, families and groups. Volunteers can comb the sands for trash and debris that threaten marine life all while enjoying the views of the ocean.

So far in 2025, volunteers have removed over 71,900 pounds of trash from the San Diego coastline! Be a part of this community effort and join in one of their upcoming events. Volunteers of all ages are welcome and will be provided with all necessary supplies.

Tucked between Carlsbad and Encinitas, the Batiquitos Lagoon is a peaceful wetland with trails, scenic overlooks and abundant wildlife. If you’re looking to escape to nature during your visit to Carlsbad, pay a visit to the lagoon and check out the volunteer event opportunities hosted by the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation. The Foundation is responsible for protecting, preserving and enhancing the Batiquitos Lagoon and as a volunteer-led organization they rely on the help of volunteers like you!

Join them on June 16, 2025 from 9:00 am - 11:30 am for their Community Volunteer Event and be ready to remove invasive plants from along the trail. Plan to meet at the Nature Center and be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and sunscreen. You’ll be provided with tools and a training so you know exactly what to remove. Check back on their main page to see other upcoming volunteer opportunities.

Whether you’re visiting for sunshine, surf or small-town charm, Carlsbad offers numerous meaningful ways to give back while you explore. From restoring the precious habitat of lagoons to picking up litter along the beach, these voluntourism opportunities are a great way to contribute to local causes and initiatives. As you plan your upcoming visit, consider adding in a few hours of feel-good fun to your itinerary.