Take a weekend getaway in the beautiful, hidden gem of Southern California: Carlsbad. Just north of San Diego, Carlsbad is a comfortable beach town known by the locals as “The Village by the Sea.” Carlsbad is a perfect place for everyone to take a weekend getaway with your family. There is something for everyone, from top kid-friendly attractions, relaxing spas, and of course, the stunning beach.
A must-see family attraction for your family in Carlsbad is Legoland, which is exactly how it sounds. It is a land of Legos, and is one of the first of its kind in the United States. In its 15th year of existence, Legoland offers a variety of attractions, including several roller coasters and water rides. And if you are feeling the force, you can even visit Legoland’s “Mini Star Wars” exhibit.
Carlsbad is also home to affluent beach communities known for their relaxation. Choose from a day at the spa and shopping at the outlets, or spend the day with the kids at the beach, golfing, stand up paddle boarding, hiking, surfing, or all of the above.
If you should choose to venture down the Interstate-5 or take the Coaster to San Diego for the day, you won’t run out of things to do. If you want to stay true to the beach theme, you can explore the tide pools in La Jolla Shores, or explore the wonders of the ocean at Birch Aquarium followed by a kayak trip to visit the sea lions at La Jolla Cove. Still staying true to the beach theme, a great family atmosphere is Mission Beach, where you can ride the rollercoaster at Belmont Park and other carnival-like rides.
While you’re in San Diego, you can’t forget to pay a visit to the world famous San Diego Zoo and check out the playful pandas and cuddly koalas. Another thing to put on your list is Sea World, which is very close in proximity to Mission Beach and is appropriate for all ages. If you’re in the mood for an interactive animal experience, driving east from Carlsbad to Escondido to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a necessity. Feed the giraffes and rhinos and watch the cheetahs run at this spacious animal haven.
If you are in Carlsbad in the summer, going just south to the Del Mar Fairgrounds is truly fun for all ages. In early summer, the San Diego County Fair is an outstanding option for a family outing, as well as the Del Mar races, which occurs twice a year in the summer and fall.
Round out your experience with a relaxing nights’ sleep in one of our many Carlsbad resorts perfect for a family, including Carlsbad Inn Beach Hotel, Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort, Carlsbad Seapointe Resort, Grand Pacific Marbrisa Resort, Grand Pacific Palisades Hotel, Grand Pacific Palisades Resort, Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa, and Tamarack Beach Resort.
