Here’s Where to Dine, Stay and Play in Carlsbad
North County has some of San Diego’s most picturesque corners and also some of its coolest. The gorgeous Pacific coastline speaks for itself, but the charm of the laid-back beach town of Carlsbad doesn’t end with sandy shores and surf cred. This nook of North County is packed with quaint shops, buzzy restaurants, hoppin’ bars and community events, including a weekly farmers market. Ride the Coaster up from downtown and hop off in the heart of it all—here’s how to spend an ideal weekend in Carlsbad! What to Do Carlsbad
10 a.m.
Stay at: The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Set on over fifty lush acres of rolling hills, The Westin Carlsbad offers vacationers a sanctuary of seclusion with its swaying palms and sweeping coastal views. The property itself features an elegant interior filled with natural light along with amenities like an ocean-inspired spa, a resort-style pool, a fitness center with a Pelton bike, several dining outlets, spacious guest rooms and suites and access to popular area attractions such as LEGOLAND California and The Crossings at Carlsbad golf course. And now through Nov. 1, 2022, guests can book that much-needed vacation with The Westin’s Escape! Golf Package! This exclusive offer includes one round of golf per night (for one person), American breakfast for up to two adults and a special discount at StretchLab Carlsbad. Now’s the time to use up that PTO and plan your escape to the coastal city of Carlsbad!
What to Do Carlsbad
11 a.m.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at: The Goods
Cure your cravings with a selection of artisan doughnuts made from scratch! The Goods offers a yummy selection of fresh-baked goods, including doughnuts like the chocolate ganache, Tahitian vanilla, brown butter, s’mores, strawberry cheesecake and more. Our favorite? The Salted Crunch—a yeast-raised doughnut in a chocolate ganache topped with a chip + pretzel chocolate brittle. Oh yeah, and all of “the goods” are oh so ‘Grammable.
Noon
Tee off at: The Crossings at Carlsbad
For those who love their tee time, head to The Crossings at Carlsbad for an epic day on the green. This championship golf course is just a seven-minute walk from The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa and is set on more than 400 acres of Carlsbad’s coastal terrain. The course itself was designed by nationally-recognized course designer/architect Greg Nash and features 18 holes with five bridges, or “crossings.” The Crossings is also home to a spacious clubhouse and golf shop, banquet facilities, a fireplace-lit dining room and an outdoor deck with ocean views. You’ll love every minute you spend at this scenic venue!
What to Do Carlsbad
1:30 p.m.
Stop for Lunch at: Casero Taqueria
Located in Bressi Ranch, Casero Taqueria offers diners a taste of authentic Baja cuisine. With a delectable selection of braised, grilled and wood-fired tacos (served on housemade tortillas), fresh salads, sharable starters and an assortment of soups, burritos and tortas, this local spot is a great place for a marg and a bite. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio and enjoy the balmy SoCal weather!
3 p.m.
Shop at: Wysh San Diego
From home decor and stationery to graphic tees and boho jumpsuits, Wysh San Diego is packed with uber cool interior finds, adorable gifts and on-trend apparel. The store also stocks a number of handmade items from local makers, so you can shop and support small businesses.
4 p.m.
Get Crafty at: Handled Pottery Studio
Get behind the wheel and make something beautiful (memories included) with a private pottery lesson at this artist-run ceramic studio. This workshop space also holds a Coffee & Clay intro class every Saturday and Sunday morning and a springtime Kids Clay Camp for the little ones.
What to Do Carlsbad
6 p.m.
Dine at: Jeune et Jolie
Coral-colored banquettes, globe lanterns and brassy art deco accents make this fledgling French bistro a trip-to-Paris come true. Curated by award-winning interior design studio Bells + Whistles, Jeune et Jolie is sophisticated, elegant and everything you’ve ever dreamed of. Feast on French dishes like the Côte de Boeuf (American Wagyu, sweetbreads, mirepoix, yogurt, streusel) and the Crevette (blue prawn, baby vegetables, peanut, shellfish consommé). Oh and don’t forget to take pics—these entrees are almost too pretty to eat.
8 p.m.
Grab Drinks at: Park 101
A solid menu and sweet views make Park 101’s Tamarack View Deck rooftop lounge a bomb spot for after-dinner drinks. Gaze out over the Carlsbad neighborhood sign while digging into some tri-tip tacos and a craft cocktails. This bi-level, plaza-style complex features an abundance of outdoor seating with a spacious lawn and communal picnic tables.
Keri Bridgwater is a freelance writer covering travel and lifestyle. Her work has been featured in Fodor’s Travel, Marie Claire, Matador Network and InsideHook, among other outlets and publications.
