Carlsbad, California, for Families

If you’re headed to Carlsbad, California, with the family, you’ll find a lot of resort options when looking for accommodations. One of the most attractive for many families, though, is the relatively new Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa. The resort comes with access to The Crossings at Carlsbad (a golf course with ocean views) and its own spa, so both mom and dad can have a little time to themselves, but there’s also a private entrance to LEGOLAND for resort guests, giving your stay added convenience.

LEGOLAND isn’t the only great attraction families can explore during their visit to Carlsbad. The destination is home to seven miles of coastline, perfect for those with a love of the water. Beyond the ocean, though, Carlsbad also has some lagoons that might not be as familiar to travelers. The Carlsbad Lagoon is a great place to rent a wave runner, power boat, kayak or canoe. There are also paddle boards, paddle boats and aqua cycles available.

The Leo Carrillo Ranch & Historic Park is an outdoor attraction away from the water. Over the property’s 27 acres, families can explore the handcrafted adobe buildings, hacienda, stable, barn, foundry and more. If you visit on a Saturday, you can catch a 90-minute walking tour or choose to just explore on your own.

Leo Carrillo Horse Stable, State Park. Photo: Beszeditz | Dreamstime.com

If you’re lucky enough to visit in the spring, March through mid-May, you have to stop by The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch to see the 50 acres of gorgeous flowers in every direction. Take a tractor ride, explore the famous floral varieties within the greenhouse, wind your way through the sweet pea maze and just enjoy the plethora of themed gardens. It’s a great spot to bring a packed picnic lunch and parking is free.

For something indoors, visit the SEA LIFE Aquarium within LEGOLAND. You can purchase ticket bundles that get you into both attractions for a reduced cost.

When your crew gets hungry, there are lots of fantastic restaurants to choose from, as Carlsbad has begun catering more and more to traveling foodies over the last few years. There’s Jeuen et Jolie, a new French restaurant in Carlsbad Village that offers a limited menu with such mouthwatering options as steak frites and beignets for brunch and dark chocolate mousse with banana jam for dessert. Campfire Restaurant is a local favorite with its great cocktail list and smoky flavors. They even have a grown-up version of s’mores on the menu! For fine dining, Argyle Steakhouse fits the bill. The restaurant boasts its own steak knife concierge, so you know it’s fancy. And if your group is of drinking age, don’t miss out on Carlsbad’s many breweries.