A 7-Stop Itinerary for an Epic Weekend in Carlsbad

Swing Into Spring With a Family Weekend in San Diego’s “The Village by the Sea”

With its seven miles of scenic coastline, stunning beaches and small-town charm, Carlsbad, known as “The Village by the Sea,” is an ideal destination for a springtime family getaway. Must-see attractions include a world-famous theme park, hiking and biking trails and a saltwater lagoon to explore—plus craft breweries and stellar dining and shopping options only add to Carlsbad’s appeal as a family-friendly destination. And when it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, look no further than The Cassara Carlsbad. This buzzy, boutique retreat on the coast not only sits next door to Carlsbad’s famous flower fields but it also comes with a slew of amenities and perks that are perfect for all ages, such as 29 stylish two-bedroom family suites and direct access to LEGOLAND California. Here’s your 101 guide to a family weekend spent in Carlsbad. Carlsbad activities

Coastal Vibes at The Cassara Carlsbad

From its Mediterranean-inspired interiors to its Instagram-worthy Pacific Ocean views, everything about The Cassara Carlsbad, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, whispers contemporary coastal cool. With decor details paying homage to seasonal ranunculus in The Carlsbad Ranch Flower Fields below, stylish interiors––including the spacious two-room Karlsbad Family Suite––will appeal to design-minded parents, but there are plenty of fantastic amenities for the little ones too. Besides the family swimming pool and splash pad, kids can also keep busy with craft classes, making everything from loom bracelets to candy sushi at the activities center.

While mom and dad might enjoy a morning of me-time at the nearby Greg Nash-designed golf course The Crossings at Carlsbad and the Ocean Pearl Spa, the rest of the fam can get together for an afternoon of adventure on the water with activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or pontooning on the saltwater lagoon. Back on the property, there are bikes to rent and coastline walking trails to stroll. Families who don’t feel like going out at night can finish off the day at The Cassara Carlsbad by cooking dinner together at one of the outdoor barbecue grills or roasting s’mores around one of the fire pits.

Carlsbad activities

In Full Bloom

Surrounded by natural beauty, The Cassara Carlsbad overlooks the seasonal Carlsbad Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Enjoy looking at over 50 acres of magnificent ranunculus flowers. These fields are in full bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year––from early March through early May. This annual burst of color is one of nature’s ways of announcing the arrival of spring. Guests of The Cassara can enjoy free shuttle service to The Flower Fields to witness this beautiful bloom!

Local Insight: For a full experience, guests can also book The Cassara’s Stay & See Flower Fields Package, which includes overnight accommodations in one of their new family suites or modern hotel rooms, two admission tickets to the famous Flower Fields, waived nightly parking fees and free shuttle service to and from the fields. And don’t miss out on The Cassara Kitchen & Bar’s Flower Fields-inspired cocktail, the Hibiscus Sour!

Like a (LEGOLAND) VIP

The Cassara Carlsbad is conveniently located just steps from one of the country’s most famous theme parks. Guests can enjoy direct access to LEGOLAND® California Resort thanks to a handy private pedestrian entrance. Play at the LEGO® Ferrari Build & Race, which allows park guests to build, test and race their own LEGO Ferrari! Build & Race puts you in the driver’s seat. Make your way through the “garage” to the “racetrack” using your creativity and imagination. Don’t miss this new attraction opening this spring!

Carlsbad activities

Sun, Sand and Sea

Surfing, swimming, and seashell hunting are top family vacation must-dos during a Southern California summer. Parking near the beach can be tough, but The Cassara Carlsbad takes the stress out of getting there. The hotel offers a complimentary Ride the Tide trolley that runs daily to nearby Tamarack Beach.

Local tip: Walk up to the northern bluff near Carlsbad Village—it’s the perfect spot to catch a stunning sunset. No gear? No problem! Boogie boards, umbrellas, beach chairs and towels are also available to rent for free from Cassara’s onsite activities center.

3/15

Fit for Foodies

Who doesn’t love to get dressed up and people-watch over expertly handcrafted drinks and tasty appetizers in a swanky lobby bar? Swing by The Cassara Kitchen & Bar for pre-dinner cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired small plates with a side of sunset views before popping next door to the Karl Strauss Brew Company for award-winning ales and dinner with the kids. The Cassara Carlsbad can also provide a complimentary shuttle service to and from notable offsite restaurants, including the all-day 7 Mile Kitchen and upscale coastal eatery 20|Twenty. In addition, Michelin’s Bib Gourmand picks Jeune et Jolie and sister restaurant Campfire are both around 10 minutes away by car in downtown Carlsbad. The hotel’s complimentary shuttle also makes runs to the Carlsbad downtown area.

Carlsbad activities

Furry Friends Welcome

Credit: The Cassara Carlsbad

Because fur babies deserve a stylish getaway too, The Cassara Carlsbad rolls out the red carpet for pups traveling with their humans. The pet-friendly hotel welcomes up to two dogs with a combined weight of 25 pounds for an $85 stay fee. Designated rooms are conveniently located on the first floor with quick access to resort grounds, trails, and waste stations. It’s comfort and convenience for both you and your four-legged travel companions—all in one easygoing, dog-loving stay.

A Shopper’s Paradise

Photograph By: Matt Doheny

With over 85 stores, Carlsbad Premium Outlets is a prime place to shop coveted designer brands. Shop labels like Marc Jacobs, Vince and Salvatore Ferragamo. Hop over on one of the resort’s complimentary shuttles for a morning or afternoon of retail therapy. Be sure to factor in a refuel stop at one of the center’s several restaurants. Options include Mot’to Japanese Grill or Blaze Pizza.

The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
5805 Armada Dr
Carlsbad, CA 92008
760.827.3232
Reservations: 833.447.9195
@thecassaracarlsbad

Keri Bridgwater

+ posts

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.