Situated just 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, Carlsbad stands out as a charming coastal city celebrated for its stunning beaches, premier resorts, and family-friendly activities. Often referred to as the “Village by the Sea,” Carlsbad merges the relaxed atmosphere of a beach town with the elegance of a contemporary vacation spot. Visitors can savor the beautiful shoreline, tackle a round of golf at its championship courses, or take the family to LEGOLAND or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is an ideal retreat for golf fans, spa lovers, families, couples, and anyone seeking remarkable beaches, perfect climate, and luxurious amenities. This resort boasts over 600 guest rooms, suites, and villas. Guests can enjoy multiple amenities, including eight swimming pools, two 18-hole championship golf courses, a Kidtopia kids’ club, a spacious fitness center, six dining options, an outstanding spa, and tennis courts. Recently, the resort finished a multi-million dollar renovation that elevates its renowned charm to new levels. This eagerly awaited update not only refreshes the resort’s look but also reimagines the overall guest experience to meet the needs of today’s travelers while retaining the essence that has made it a favorite for many years.
The accommodations have been beautifully redesigned to embody a modern yet timeless elegance, drawing inspiration from Southern California’s stunning landscape with a soft, coastal color scheme of light blues, greens, and neutral shades that reflect the nearby Pacific Ocean and its surroundings. The award-winning spa and the golf courses have also received enhancements. For kids, the resort features two 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 a fun game lounge. You can find Omni La Costa Resort & Spa at 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad. To make a reservation, visit www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa or call 760.438.9111.
Set in the beautiful San Pasqual Valley, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, previously known as the Wild Animal Park, provides an exciting, immersive wildlife encounter that goes beyond a typical zoo experience. Covering over 1,800 acres, this reserve is home to countless animals from across the globe, many of which roam freely in expansive habitats that mimic their natural settings. Visitors have the opportunity to partake in various safaris to get up close with giraffes, rhinos, antelopes, and more. The park’s defining Africa Tram offers a guided tour of the African Plains with sweeping views of the diverse wildlife.
For a more adventurous outing, consider the Caravan Safari, where you can hand-feed giraffes, or the Flightline Safari, which features a zip line traversing over animal exhibits. The park also includes engaging experiences like Walkabout Australia, where guests can walk alongside kangaroos and wallabies, and Tiger Trail, a lush path that provides close encounters with Sumatran tigers. Located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, the park welcomes guests daily from 9am to 6pm, with adult tickets priced at $74 and children aged 3 to 11 at $64, available at https://sdzsafaripark.org/.
LEGOLAND California is an essential stop for families and LEGO fans. This enchanting theme park caters to kids aged 2-12, boasting over 60 rides, shows, and attractions that breathe life into the beloved LEGO bricks. With thrilling roller coasters, water rides, hands-on building zones, and interactive experiences, LEGOLAND offers boundless enjoyment for young explorers. Must-see attractions include Miniland USA, showcasing mini replicas of famous cities, along with the LEGO Movie World. With a water park and SEA LIFE Aquarium located on-site, LEGOLAND guarantees a fun-filled day for all. Situated at One Legoland Drive, LEGOLAND operates daily from 10am to 5pm, with tickets costing $79 at https://www.legoland.com/california/.
Breakfast Republic in San Diego is famed for its innovative takes on classic breakfast fare. The menu presents delightful options like cinnamon roll pancakes and s’mores French toast, alongside savory choices such as breakfast burritos and omelets. Their bacon flights and Bloody Mary’s are popular picks for brunch. The ambiance is relaxed and vibrant, featuring eclectic decor and a lively atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual, enjoyable meal. You can find it at 251 North El Camino Real in Encinitas.
Karl Strauss Brewing Company in Carlsbad merges craft beer with tasty pub-style cuisine. The restaurant serves a variety of tastes, including hoppy IPAs, smooth lagers, and seasonal brews. The vibe is laid-back, with options for both indoor and outdoor seating. Its menu features a fantastic selection of elevated pub favorites, such as beer-infused pretzels, burgers, and fish tacos, all perfectly paired with their brews. It’s located at 5801 Armada Drive.
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