Things to do in Carlsbad

Activities, attractions and tours

Legoland California featuring rides
Legoland California featuring a garden and rides
Legoland California showing rides as well as a small group of people
Legoland California which includes rides
Legoland California which includes a park and rides

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Most popular experiences in Carlsbad

Tours & day trips

See all 25 activities
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
6.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 689 per traveler*
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving TourOpens in new tab

Water activities

See all 9 activities
Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is P 6,896 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 5 activities
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
6.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 689 per traveler*
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving TourOpens in new tab

What to do in Carlsbad

Popular places to visit

Legoland California featuring rides

LEGOLAND® California

Ride on a pirate ship, see famous people and wild animals in yellow-block form, or simply enjoy the scenery at this huge resort which brings LEGO® to life.

LEGOLAND® California
Carlsbad State Beach

Carlsbad State Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Carlsbad State Beach during your travels in Carlsbad? Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.

Carlsbad State Beach
South Carlsbad State Beach

South Carlsbad State Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at South Carlsbad State Beach during your trip to Carlsbad?

South Carlsbad State Beach
Tamarack Beach

Tamarack Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Tamarack Beach during your trip to Carlsbad? Stroll along the seaside or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Tamarack Beach

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Carlsbad Premium Outlets during your visit to Carlsbad. Stroll along the seaside in this family-friendly area, or seek out the surfing spots.

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Flower Fields of Carlsbad

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Flower Fields of Carlsbad, a lovely green space in Carlsbad. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the surfing spots.

Flower Fields of Carlsbad

Aviara Golf Club

Play a round of golf in Carlsbad at Aviara Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

Aviara Golf Club

Carlsbad Lagoon

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Carlsbad Lagoon might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Carlsbad.

Carlsbad Lagoon

The Crossings at Carlsbad

Play a round of golf in Carlsbad at The Crossings at Carlsbad, and enjoy other activities such as surfing. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches or experience its great live music.

The Crossings at Carlsbad

Areas of Carlsbad

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Carlsbad Village

While visiting Carlsbad Village, you might make a stop by sights like Carlsbad State Beach and Tamarack Beach.

Carlsbad Village
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North Beach

If you're spending some time in North Beach, Tamarack Beach and Carlsbad State Beach are top sights worth seeing.

North Beach
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Aviara

While visiting Aviara, you might make a stop by sights like Batiquitos Lagoon and Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation Nature Center.

Aviara
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South Beach

While visiting South Beach, you might make a stop by sights like South Carlsbad State Beach and Tamarack Beach.

South Beach
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Olde Carlsbad

If you're spending some time in Olde Carlsbad, The Shoppes at Carlsbad Mall and Hosp Grove Trails are top sights worth seeing.

Olde Carlsbad
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Barrio

Barrio might not have many top sights, but Carlsbad State Beach and Tamarack Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Barrio
San Diego Botanic Garden which includes a garden and a pond

Encinitas

Oceanside

Oceanside

Frequently asked questions

Is Carlsbad worth visiting?
Carlsbad offers a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or regional cuisine, there are many things to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Carlsbad?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to LEGOLAND® California and Oceanside Beach. Then, explore other parts of Carlsbad for local dining and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Carlsbad?
LEGOLAND® California is one of the top tourist attractions in Carlsbad and deserves a spot on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Carlsbad?
Three days will be enough time to check out some popular city sights, like LEGOLAND® California, Oceanside Beach and Carlsbad State Beach. The average stay in Carlsbad is three days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Temecula isn't far away.
Is Carlsbad a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Carlsbad. Several key sights, including LEGOLAND® California and Oceanside Beach, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Carlsbad's best neighborhoods, Townsite is 5 kilometers away from downtown, while Olde Carlsbad is 2 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Carlsbad with kids?
If you're searching for attractions and activities for all ages, take a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Carlsbad with kids.

What to do in Carlsbad for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Carlsbad, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Buena Vista Audubon Society & Nature Center or Rancho Guajome Adobe.
Are there free things to do in Carlsbad?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Carlsbad. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Oceanside Beach is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.