Best Things To Do In Carlsbad

There are a lot of wonderful attractions and interesting activities in Carlsbad for both visitors and residents. So take a look at our eclectic list of the best places to go and the best things to do in Carlsbad. Some of these unique locations you might not find anywhere else, while others are activities that locals participate in regularly and may have even moved here for.

Criteria: Total experience, uniqueness, fun factor, appeal, safety, access

Enjoy A Beautiful Beach

Neighborhood: Multiple

The beaches of Carlsbad are magnets year-round. In Winter, they’re gathering places for picnics, volleyball or a serene place to read and unwind. In summer, the warmer water lures us all to get in, get wet and stay all day long.

Why We Recommend: A day at the beach can be one of the most enjoyable human experiences if you plan it right. Rule #1 – bring something to wear in case it’s colder than you thought, something to drink and snack on and grab the sunscreen.

Hints: You need folding beach chairs, towels, food, something to drink and an umbrella. Rent them or head to Costco to buy.

Best Time To Go: Anytime of year, but July – Sept. the water is warmer

Carlsbad Weather

Various – See below

Click To See Our Best Beaches List

Visit Legoland

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

If you have children aged 3 – 12, this may be your #1 reason for visiting Carlsbad. Legoland is a large resort featuring a lego theme park, waterpark and aquarium (these require separate tickets). For those that love legos, the park caters to kids with hands-on exhibits, rides including 4 short rollercoasters, 100s of amazing lego builds and their famous cities and buildings.

Why We Recommend: Unique experience for those of us that love lego blocks – especially kids. There are only 2 of these parks in the United States, and only 8 worldwide. Fun explorations!

Hints: Plan to spend time letting the kids build, dig for fossils and explore. Bring swimsuits in the summer for the waterpark or just get wet in the fountain parks. Our favorite is Emmet’s Flying Adventure and don’t forget to add the worth-while aquarium ticket.

Best Time To Go: Open 10am – 6pm most days.

Carlsbad Weather

One Legoland Drive 888-690-5346

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Hike Along The Batiquitos Lagoon

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

The lagoons of Carlsbad have been here for thousands of year. This large public 610 acre lagoon features a long wide trail along its northern border. This flat easy trail hugs the wetlands while winding through eucalyptus forests sprinkled with large canary palm trees and multiple bird species.

Why We Recommend: Frequent signs with Q codes allow anyone with a phone to learn about each location in the park. Lots of beautiful trees, flowers, animals and a wonderful nature center.

Hints: You might see soaring birds of prey, or glimpse golfers on the exquisite Aviara Golf Course nearby. Trail dead ends into private property at 1.6 miles from the start.

Best Time To Go: Visitor Center Open 9am – 3pm 760-931-08009

Carlsbad Weather

7380 Gabbiano Lane

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Watch The Sun Set

Neighborhood: Multiple Places

Watching a sunset is a Carlsbad tradition – so make sure you check the weather and head down to one of our recommended viewing areas. If there isn’t a fog bank (common in May & June) and there is some sun breaking through the clouds – grab your camera, check the sunset time, and then choose where to go.

Why We Recommend: When it’s sunny, it’s golden. Sometimes magic happens and blazing reds, purples and gold turn the skies into an awe-inspiring show.

Hints: If the sun doesn’t sink into a fog bank, stay after the sun goes down as colors can expand for up to 30 minutes.

Best Time To Go: Every day at sunset unless it’s cloudy or foggy

Carlsbad Weather Sunset

Anywhere near the ocean

Where To See The Sunset

Pick Fresh Strawberries (Mar. - Aug.)

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

If you have never picked big red sweet California strawberries before, heading to the local favorite Carlsbad Strawberry Company farm is a fun outing for everyone – especially families.

Why We Recommend: Pick only the perfect strawberries for your bucket and enjoy a delicious California tradition afterwards. Sunflower maze and Bounceland are kid favorites.

Hints: Berry quality suffers for a couple of weeks after rain. Bring a hat – picking can be hot and hard work, so dress accordingly. It costs more than buying strawberries elsewhere, but worth it.

Best Time To Go: 9am – 6pm January – July

Carlsbad Weather

1050 Cannon Road – right off the 5 Freeway. 760-603-9608

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See The Flower Fields (March - May)

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

These 55 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers are world famous and put on a spectacular show of color during the spring – usually March through May.

Why We Recommend: Walking among so much color is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a photographer’s dream. Get up close and fill your frame with color.

Hints: During the season, the parking is crowded so come early. If paying $12 – $26 to walk among the flowers seems high, you can view and get some photos from Armada drive above.

Best Time To Go: 9am – 6pm During The Season.

Carlsbad Weather

5704 Paseo Del Norte. 760-431-0352

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Go To The Wednesday Farmers Market

Neighborhood: Carlsbad Village

Besides getting some healthy things to eat, going to the weekly market gets you some exercise, an opportunity to people watch (and dogs), or a reason to stop in at the shops around State street. Always a pleasant weekly trip.

Why We Recommend: Fresh California produce from local farms and hand-crafted food. Support local growers and businesses.

Hints: Free public bathrooms are at Choice Juicery at the southern end of the market – walk in and to the back wall.

Best Time To Go: Open Wed. 2:30pm to 7pm until November

Carlsbad Weather

2900 Block of State Street – Downtown

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Kart Racing At K1 Speed

Neighborhood: Carlsbad North

Looking to get your adrenaline pumping after a relaxing day at the beach? High-speed electric Kart racing at F1 is a close-by location to take a group to race in a safe, fun environment.

Why We Recommend: Great night-time activity and modern electric Karts are much quieter and don’t smell like to older gas versions. This is modern, high-speed racing for teens and adults (min. height is 4’10”).

Hints: This isn’t the least expensive activity – expect to pay a minimum of $60 per person for 2 – 3 races. They have a lounge with food and drinks (you can’t drive after you have a beer – so you race first). Very modern facility. Junior racing ends at 8pm. Gets crowded on weekend nights.

Best Time To Go: Noon – 10pm weekdays, 10am – Midnight Fri/Sat

Carlsbad Weather

6212 Corte Del Abeto 760-929-2225

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Visit The Miniature Craftsmanship Museum

Neighborhood: Carlsbad East

Joe Martin’s Foundation has preserved miniature engineering and craftsman models from history and put them on display at this one-of-a-kind experience in Carlsbad. Most of these are working models made up of hand-made machined parts and tools.

Why We Recommend: Incredible, diverse collection of miniature locomotives, fire trucks, engines, motors, doll houses, sailing ships, airplanes, rollercoasters, circus wagons, toys, erector sets, race cars, rockets, boats & carousels. Something for everyone.

Hints: Many of the working models here are electrically, gas or steam powered and can be turned on by any docents – just ask.

Best Time To Go: Open TH – SA, 9am – 4pm.

Carlsbad Weather

3190 Lionshed Ave. 760-727-9492

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Hike To A Dormant Volcano

Neighborhood: Carlsbad East

A hidden treasure of Carlsbad is the Lake Loop Trail around Lake Calavera. From there you can also hike to the top of the volcano.

Why We Recommend: This nature preserve is full of wild plants and birds, and provides one of the best views from the top. Trail is perfect for kids and dogs while enjoying California nature.

Hints: Like all California trails, watch for rattlesnakes on the trail and mountain lions in the remote areas. Parking is easy and use the only bathroom at the trailhead. Avoid midday heat if possible.

Best Time To Go: Sunrise – Sunset – Spring/Fall

Carlsbad Weather

Tamarack Ave. Trailhead

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Visit Leo Carillo Ranch Historic Park

Neighborhood: Carlsbad South

Famous broadway and Hollywood actor Leo Carrillo purchased and rebuilt this adobe home and ranch – which is now a State Park. Learn about the history of this famous person and this unique, traditional ranch. Free tours.

Why We Recommend: Gorgeous property with Carlsbad history intertwined make this trip a walk back in time and very informative. Spend an hour or two – worth the effort.

Hints: Avoid midday sun in the summer as it gets hot, and the Ranch closes early on Fri – Sun for weddings.

Best Time To Go: Open 9am – 5pm daily.

Carlsbad Weather

6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane 442-339-5042

Website Map

Take The Oyster Farm Tour

Neighborhood: Carlsbad North

Oysters and mussels are farmed in the Agua Hedionda Lagoon just south of the village. Carlsbad Aquafarm offers tours that culminate in shucking and eating fresh oysters.

Why We Recommend: If you enjoy eating oysters, there are very few places in the world that will explain how they are farmed, how to shuck your own, and then let you eat a half dozen afterwards.

Hints: Shucking can get a splash or two of oyster juice on your clothes, so dress accordingly. Small parking lot is only accessible from the northbound side of the street. Kids under 10 are free.

Best Time To Go: Multiple times available on weekdays and weekends.

Carlsbad Weather

4522 Carlsbad Blvd. 760-908-2744

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See A Show At The New Village Arts Center

Neighborhood: Carlsbad Village

Yes, Carlsbad has its own small intimate theatre right down town that hosts different types of entertainment year round, including annual “season” of plays featuring its talented stable of actors. Village improv, comedy and music are also regular events.

Why We Recommend: Beautifully decorated and operated by extremely nice helpful people, great performances, no bad seats and very reasonable priced for a great evening of entertainment.

Hints: Try to buy in advance as many shows sell out before the date – they serve some drinks including cocktails

Best Time To Go: Anytime, but most events are in the evening

Carlsbad Weather

2787 State St. 760-284-4393

Website Map

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Neighborhood: Carlsbad East

Large indoor Trampoline park for toddlers and younger kids. This is a great indoor/evening activity with lots of different activities. It’s large enough for large parties and hundreds of kids.

Why We Recommend: It’s a large modern facility built to let kids run and have fun doing all types of trampoline and tumbling activities – they even have a climbing wall. You pay by the hour.

Hints: Requires kids to wear socks (they sell them if you need them), and they have good seating areas and snack bar where parents can keep an eye on all the action.

Best Time To Go: 10am – 8pm, 10PM Fri/Sat

Carlsbad Weather

6133 Innovation Way. 858-400-4550

Website Map

Visit The Museum Of Music

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

This museum is a one-of-kind experience supported by the companies that make and sell musical instruments. The non-profit organization keeps the history of musical instruments here, and helps promote music to kids.

Why We Recommend: Renovation now provides digital resources to learn, listen and watch about the history of music and musical instruments in each of the 6 areas.

Hints: There is a playing room at the end, so plan on laying down some tracks with museum owned instruments.

Best Time To Go: Open TU – SU, 10am – 5pm

Carlsbad Weather

5790 Armada Dr. 760-438-5996

Website Map

Get Wet At California Watersports

Neighborhood: Carlsbad Village

Rent a speedboat, kayak, WaveRunner, paddle board, pontoon boat, paddleboat, or a swan paddleboat and have some fun at Carlsbad Lagoon (part of Agua Hedionda Lagoon).

Why We Recommend: If your group is large or has a hard time making a decision what to do, there is something for everyone here when the urge to get wet strikes. Lessons available.

Hints: For paddeboarding or kayaking, go early in the day before the afternoon winds pick up – as wind makes those sports a little less enjoyable than beautiful calm mornings.

Best Time To Go: 9am – 6pm

Carlsbad Weather

4215 Harrison St. 760-434-3089

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Try The Famous Carlsbad Water

Neighborhood: Carlsbad Village

Carlsbad’s name came from the similarity of its well water to a famous bohemian spa called Karlsbad in the Czech Republic. The water has a high PH (8.6)and is called Carlsbad Alkaline water, with supposed restorative effects. It also played a significant role in the founding of the city.

Why We Recommend: The machines are nothing to see, but the statue of John Frazier and the original hotel building are worth seeing and reading about. Plus the water is good.

Hints: Take a few empty water bottles with you as you get 1 gallon for $1. Take a drink and see if you don’t feel better.

Best Time To Go: Open 9am – 6pm 760-434-1887

Carlsbad Weather

2802 Carlsbad Blvd. – In Carlsbad Village

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Catch A Movie at Cinépolis

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

Catch the latest movies in Carlsbad’s most luxurious theatre featuring spacious reclining seating, modern audio system, restaurant quality food, cocktails, wine, craft beer, popcorn, candy and more.

Why We Recommend: When you want your movie experience to be the most enjoyable possible – come to Cinepolis and immerse yourself. It costs extra but worth it.

Hints: Buy tickets online, walk right in without a line and then order your from the wait staff right from your seat – no waiting.

Showtimes: 10:45am – 10:15pm

Currently Showing

6941 El Camino Real 760-827-6700

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Swim At Alga Norte Aquatic Center

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

If the ocean is too cold for the kids, or you just want to get some laps in to work off those delicious Carlsbad dinners, head over to our fabulous Aquatic Center at the Alga Norte Park.

Why We Recommend: Multiple well-maintained pools, lap pool, shallow warmer pool, diving boards, splash pool for kids, hot tub, and full shower rooms. Reasonable entry fee and park also features skatepark and dog park.

Hints: Check the website before going as there are some periodic maintenance which may close part of the park.

Open: 6am – 7pm Weekdays, 8/9:30am – 4pm Weekends

Carlsbad Weather

6565 Alicante Rd. 442-339-5777

Website Map

Seasonal Activities (Currently Not Available)

Tide Pools at Terra Mar (Oct. - Mar.)

Neighborhood: Carlsbad West

When the tide goes really low Click Here For Dates and Times – you can literally walk on the rocky reefy at Terra Mar beach and see a lot of sea life in the exposed tidal pools. Sometimes called the Carlsbad Tide Pools, these pockets and crevasses are oppotunities to find something amazing learn about the ocean.

Why We Recommend: Fun family event, especially if low-tide is right before sunset. Who doesn’t have fun looking for an octopus?

Hints: Look for the clearer pools and check under shelves, or in the shadowy corners to find crabs, clams and maybe an octopus. Only a negative tide and small waves make this magic happen.

Best Time To Go: Check our Daily Tide Page Here

Carlsbad Weather

5399 Carlsbad Blvd. – Down The Stairs to The Right

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About Best Carlsbad

Best Carlsbad was designed to help visitors and local residents find the best experiences using informative, curated lists based on research and on-site visits.

All recommendations and information presented are opinions of bestcarlsbad.com.

If you have a suggestion on how we can improve our website, please send us your comments to: editor@bestcarlsbad.com

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