Your New Year’s Reset Starts in Carlsbad 2025

Start 2026 with a little momentum at an upcoming race and pair the race weekend with a relaxing stay at one of Carlsbad’s top hotels.

There’s no better place to launch your New Year’s goals than in Carlsbad. This January, runners and families can choose from a lineup of feel-good races that will get everyone moving.

Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
Jump-start your New Year’s fitness resolutions by registering for the upcoming Carlsbad Marathon, half marathon or 5K race taking place on Jan. 18, 2026. This scenic race will showcase iconic Carlsbad views of our beautiful coastline and lagoons. Participants receive a variety of swag including technical-fabric apparel, a reusable grocery bag and of course a standout finishers’ medal. Both the half marathon and the 5K are walker-friendly, so if you’re hoping to ease into new fitness goals for this year this is the race for you. Strollers are also welcome, so this can be a whole family event! The number of participants will be capped so be sure to register ahead of time.

Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND
Even the young ones can work on building healthy habits in the new year by joining in for the 1-mile fun run taking place at LEGOLAND California Resort on Jan. 17, 2026. This run is open to all ages and abilities, meaning participants can walk, run, skip or even be pushed along in a stroller to make it to the finish line. The course takes you through LEGOLAND before it’s open to the public to give you an exclusive view of the sights and sounds of the park. Participants will receive a souvenir T-shirt, a complimentary LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE ticket (for kids 12 and under), a finisher’s medal and other perks! Register to join in on this dash!

Whether you’re hoping to turn the race weekend into a coastal getaway or plan a picturesque break at the start of the New Year, Carlsbad has plenty of options for your perfect vacation.

A Break by the Sea at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach
Take some time to relax after the holiday rush and book yourselves a beachside break at Cape Rey Carlsbad. Just across from South Carlsbad State Beach, this popular Crafstman-style resort is a wonderful option for couples and families looking to book a vacation to start off the New Year. Unwind by the heated pool, dine on delicious California coastal cuisine at Chandler’s Oceanfront Dining or take one of the complimentary beach cruiser bicycles for a tour down the picturesque Highway 101. If you’re looking to plan a weekend break why not add on an extra day? Cape Rey is offering 25% off your stay when you book a three-night break before Feb. 28. You will also receive 10% off a pool cabana rental and 15% off select spa treatments so that you can make it a truly luxurious vacation.

Nonstop LEGOLAND Fun
Carlsbad is the ideal vacation spot for families, with its gorgeous beaches, walkable downtown area and fun-filled activities such as LEGOLAND California. If you’re joining in for the Kids Marathon Mile on Jan. 17, take advantage of the ultimate vacation package for a family getaway in 2026 and save up to 30% on rooms and kids’ tickets. The little ones will be ecstatic to spend the night in a LEGO-themed room that is just steps away from LEGOLAND California Resort. Make it a trip to remember and enjoy the hotels’ heated pools, play areas, arcade and more while staying in the LEGOLAND Hotel or LEGOLAND Castle Hotel.

Stay in the Village at the Carlsbad Inn
Be nearby the bustling Carlsbad Village and book a stay at the Carlsbad Inn, a beach resort that puts you near fabulous dining and boutique shopping. From spacious suites to ocean view rooms, there’s something for everyone. The resort even offers parking, beach equipment as well as bikes and jogger strollers to borrow so you can explore all Carlsbad has to offer. Join in the fun at one of their resort activities, jump into the outdoor heated pool and admire a gorgeous sunset from the sprawling lawn of the resort. Check out their incredible offers to stay three nights for the price of two, or if you’re planning a midweek stay you can benefit from their weekday extended stay offer to receive 20% off their best available rate.

A Spa Getaway at Park Hyatt Aviara
Melt away the stress of the holiday season and begin 2026 completely rejuvenated thanks to world-class spa treatments and relaxing views at Park Hyatt Aviara. This luxurious resort is tucked away on 250 lush acres of greenery and offers panoramic views of Batiquitos Lagoon and the Pacific Ocean. Treat yourself to one of their spacious suites, a coastal-view room with a private balcony or a room with a personal firepit for a cozy winter evening. Over the first 12 days of the New Year, the Miraval Spa at the resort is dedicated to a journey of wellbeing and is inviting people to participate in filling out their Renewal Passport which is available at the spa desk. Complete all 12 days and unlock 25% off your next spa package as well as an invite to an exclusive Miraval event.

Be sure to fit in some time by one of their pools and to hike the nearby trails of Batiquitos Lagoon for a dose of calm as you wander among the trees. For the New Year, their offers include a $250 credit for Miraval Spa or an Aviara Golf Club Package, perfect for any golf enthusiast.