Located just 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, Carlsbad is a delightful coastal city renowned for its picturesque beaches, top-notch resorts, and a variety of family-friendly attractions. Often called the “Village by the Sea,” Carlsbad combines the casual vibe of a beach town with the sophistication of a modern vacation destination. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful coastline, play a round of golf on championship courses, or take the family to LEGOLAND or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa serves as a perfect getaway for golf enthusiasts, spa aficionados, families, couples, and anyone looking to indulge in remarkable beaches, ideal weather, and lavish amenities. The resort offers more than 600 guest rooms, suites, and villas. Guests can take advantage of various facilities, which include eight swimming pools, two 18-hole championship golf courses, a Kidtopia kids’ club, a large fitness center, six dining venues, an exceptional spa, and tennis courts. Recently, the resort completed a multi-million dollar renovation that enhances its celebrated charm. This highly anticipated upgrade not only refreshes the resort’s appearance but also revolutionizes the overall guest experience to cater to the expectations of today’s travelers while preserving the essence that has made it popular for years.
The accommodations have been exquisitely remodeled to reflect a modern yet timeless sophistication, inspired by Southern California’s breathtaking landscape with a soft, coastal color palette of light blues, greens, and neutral tones that mirror the nearby Pacific Ocean and its surroundings. The award-winning spa and golf courses have also seen improvements. For younger guests, the resort features thrilling 100-foot waterslides at the Splash Landing pools, a sandy beach pool, Kidtopia kids’ club, outdoor evening movies by the pool, s’mores activities, and an entertaining game lounge. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is located at 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad. To book a reservation, visit www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa or call 760.438.9111.
Nestled in the picturesque San Pasqual Valley, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, formerly known as the Wild Animal Park, offers an exhilarating and immersive wildlife experience that transcends the traditional zoo format. Spanning over 1,800 acres, this reserve is home to a multitude of animals from around the globe, many of which live in open habitats that replicate their natural environments. Visitors can participate in various safaris for an up-close encounter with giraffes, rhinos, antelopes, and more. The park’s signature Africa Tram provides a guided tour of the African Plains, offering sweeping views of the diverse wildlife.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, consider the Caravan Safari, where you can hand-feed giraffes, or the Flightline Safari, which includes a zip line that traverses over animal exhibits. The park also offers engaging experiences such as Walkabout Australia, where guests can stroll alongside kangaroos and wallabies, and Tiger Trail, a lush route that allows close encounters with Sumatran tigers. Located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, the park welcomes visitors daily from 9 am to 6 pm, with adult tickets priced at $74 and children aged 3 to 11 at $64, available at https://sdzsafaripark.org/.
LEGOLAND California is a must-visit for families and LEGO enthusiasts. This enchanting theme park targets kids aged 2-12, featuring over 60 rides, shows, and attractions that bring the beloved LEGO bricks to life. With exciting roller coasters, water rides, hands-on building zones, and interactive experiences, LEGOLAND offers endless fun for young adventurers. Highlights include Miniland USA, which showcases miniature replicas of famous cities, along with the LEGO Movie World. Additionally, a water park and SEA LIFE Aquarium are located on-site, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone. Situated at One Legoland Drive, LEGOLAND operates daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with tickets available for $79 at https://www.legoland.com/california/.
Breakfast Republic in San Diego is well-known for its creative interpretations of traditional breakfast dishes. The menu features delightful options like cinnamon roll pancakes and s’mores French toast, along with savory items such as breakfast burritos and omelets. Their bacon flights and Bloody Marys are especially popular for brunch. The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, adorned with eclectic decor, making it the ideal venue for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. Located at 251 North El Camino Real in Encinitas.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company in Carlsbad combines craft beer with delicious pub-style dishes. The restaurant boasts a diverse selection of beverages, including hoppy IPAs, smooth lagers, and seasonal brews. The atmosphere is laid-back, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options. The menu presents a fantastic array of elevated pub favorites, such as beer-infused pretzels, burgers, and fish tacos, all perfectly accompanied by their brews. It’s situated at 5801 Armada Drive.
Image Source: Kyle Sprague / Shutterstock
