Carlsbad California Vacation

Roughly halfway between San Clemente and San Diego is the beach community of Carlsbad California. Amtrak stops here and can take you north to San Clemente or south to San Diego for a day trip.

Carlsbad Beaches
The entrance to Carlsbad State Beach is at Tamarack Ave., west of Carlsbad Boulevard. The beach is sandy and rocky with bluffs along the back. You can fish, swim and surf here. There are also restrooms.

A ways to the south is South Carlsbad State Beach, where there are blufftop campsites.

Carlsbad Village
This redeveloped shopping district lies in the area between the freeway and the beach, with Carlsbad Village Drive going right down the middle. Here, you can browse antique shops, art galleries, gift shops or surf shops. There are restaurants and a Starbucks as well.

Legoland
This amusement park is a major draw to the area for families with little ones. More about Legoland Carlsbad.

Agua Hedionda Lagoon
Located at 4215 Harrison Street, this lagoon features the Snug Harbor Marina where you can enjoy fishing, boating and water skiing. A boat ramp, restrooms, food and bait is available at the marina.

Batiquitos Lagoon
These freshwater wetlands have been restored. It's just south of Carlsbad and features trails and birdwatching.

The Flower Fields
Take a little stroll through the Carlsbad Flower Field.

Museum Of Making Music
Located at 5790 Armada Drive, not far from Legoland, this museum is a must for music lovers. There are interactive displays ranging through the history of music, with hundreds of vintage instruments. A special room allows teens and adults to try out some instruments with headphones on. Find out all you need to know at www.museumofmakingmusic.org.

Lodging
To find a hotel in the area, see the deals atTripAdvisor's Carlsbad hotels page.

For an extended stay, check out the current listings for Carlsbad California Vacation Rentals.