Carlsbad, California
Whether you're after family fun, foodie finds, or romantic adventures, Carlsbad, California has something for everyone. Known as the “Village by the Sea,” this laid-back yet luxurious coastal town offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Ready to plan your day in paradise? Here are some of the best things to do in Carlsbad right now.
The Ultimate Family Destination: LEGOLAND California Resort
LEGOLAND California continues to reign supreme for families. In 2025, it’s better than ever with the addition of LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race, where kids can design their own Ferrari and test it on a virtual racetrack. The LEGOLAND Water Park remains a favorite for beating the heat, and Sea Life Aquarium still offers interactive marine exhibits that educate and entertain.
New this year? The LEGOLAND Hotel and the Castle Hotel now feature themed rooms with immersive experiences, character dining, and scavenger hunts throughout your stay.
Date Night in the Sky: Compass Balloons
While Sky’s the Limit has since closed, Carlsbad’s hot air balloon experiences have been taken over by the experts at Compass Balloons. Offering sunrise and sunset flights over coastal North County, their private tours are perfect for proposals or just toasting to a spontaneous adventure. FAA-certified pilots and impeccable safety records ensure your ride is as smooth as it is scenic.
Springtime Romance: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
From March through early May, 55 acres of technicolor ranunculus flowers bloom across the rolling hills of Carlsbad Ranch. The Flower Fields offer more than just a photo op—they now include sunset wine tastings, yoga classes among the blooms, and a brand-new butterfly garden experience.
It’s also still one of Southern California’s most charming wedding venues. If you’re planning a celebration, this is the place to bloom with beauty.
Eat Like a Local: Where to Brunch, Snack and Savor
Cafe Topes
Still one of Carlsbad’s top breakfast spots, Cafe Topes now offers expanded outdoor seating and seasonal specials. Their legendary cinnamon rolls haven’t gone anywhere, and they’ve recently added oat milk horchata lattes to the menu. Don’t miss the Crack Bomb 2.0—now topped with caramelized onions and jalapeño crema.
Jeune et Jolie
For something truly elevated, Jeune et Jolie continues to earn national acclaim with its modern French tasting menus and romantic ambiance. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a seasonal menu that changes nightly and features locally sourced produce and sustainable seafood.
Pure Taco
A fresh addition to the Carlsbad food scene, Pure Taco is a street food-inspired eatery offering globally influenced tacos—from Korean BBQ to Moroccan lamb. The cocktails are equally adventurous (hibiscus mezcal margarita, anyone?).
Sip and Savor: For the Craft Beer and Wine Lovers
Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Karl Strauss has expanded its beer garden, now with fire pits, live music on weekends, and new seasonal brews. Their Red Trolley Ale is a classic, but don’t miss their small-batch limited releases rotating every few weeks.
Carruth Cellars
San Diego’s largest urban winery now has a Carlsbad tasting room in the heart of the village. With wine flights, cheese boards, and a chic coastal patio, Carruth is ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
Explore Carlsbad Village: The Carlsbad Food Tour
The Carlsbad Food Tour remains one of the best ways to get a true taste of the town—both literally and historically. In 2025, tours include up to 9 tasting stops, from artisanal ice cream to local olive oil and wine. Your guide shares rich stories of Carlsbad’s founders, historic architecture, and even a few ghost tales for good measure.
There are now three tour options: the Classic Food Tour, a Booze & Bites Tour (21+), and the new Sunday Brunch Crawl. All tours are kid-friendly and accommodate dietary preferences when booked in advance.
Bonus: Relaxation & Wellness in Carlsbad
Don't leave without dipping into wellness. The Carlsbad Mineral Spa offers natural mineral water baths that attract health seekers from around the world, while the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa features a world-class spa, championship golf, and yoga under the palms.
Whether you’re visiting with kids, planning a date, or simply in search of fresh sea air and a better breakfast, Carlsbad delivers. With so much to discover—from flower fields to fine wines—this charming coastal town is calling. Trust us: one day won’t be enough.
For Related Articles Try:
(0) comments
We welcome your comments
Log In
Post a comment as Guest
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.