A One-Day Itinerary for the Perfect Carlsbad Day Trip
Start the Day with a Culinary Adventure on Carlsbad Food Tours
Begin your day by indulging in the flavors of Carlsbad with a guided Carlsbad Food Tour. This 3-hour walking tour takes you through the heart of Carlsbad Village, where you’ll taste delicious dishes and meet passionate chefs. Not only will you sample incredible food from local restaurants, but you’ll also learn about Carlsbad’s history, culture, and hidden gems along the way.
Carlsbad Food Tours is perfect for foodies and anyone looking to dive deeper into the local flavor. It’s a great way to kick off your visit, leaving you with a full belly and a wealth of insider tips for the rest of your trip.
Bike or Stroll Along Carlsbad State Beach
After your culinary adventure, explore Carlsbad’s stunning coastline. Rent an electric bike from Carlsbad E-Bikes & More and ride along Carlsbad Boulevard for breathtaking ocean views. Don’t miss South Carlsbad State Beach and Terramar Point, where you can take in the beauty of the coastal bluffs.
Prefer a slower pace? Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Carlsbad Beach Boardwalk, which stretches less than a mile and offers a relaxing way to soak up the scenery.
Explore Carlsbad Village
Carlsbad Village
Take some time to wander through the lively streets of Carlsbad Village. From charming boutiques to antique shops, there’s plenty to discover. Be sure to check out:
- Twin Inns: This historic Queen Anne-style building dates back to 1887.
- Carlsbad Alkaline Water Well: Fill a jug with mineral-rich water from this famous local spot.
- Gelato Love or Strawberry Shack: Perfect for a mid-afternoon treat.
- Barrio Glassworks: For something truly unique, visit Barrio Glassworks, a working hot glass studio and gallery. You can shop stunning handmade glass art or even sign up for a glassblowing workshop to create your own masterpiece.
- Sun Diego Boardshop: A staple in Carlsbad since 1981, Sun Diego Boardshop is the go-to spot for surfboards, skateboards, beachwear, and accessories. Whether you’re a surfer or just love the beach aesthetic, this shop has you covered.
- Aranelle, a beloved boutique located in the heart of Carlsbad Village. Since 2001. Aranelle has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a curated selection of clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, gifts, and home décor.
Visit a Historical Site or Park
Choose between two unique destinations:
- Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park: A serene 27-acre property with peacocks, natural landscapes, and a hacienda dating back to the 19th century.
- Shipley-Magee House and Park: A quaint museum detailing the lives of Carlsbad’s early settlers, surrounded by a beautiful park and rose garden.
- Carlsbad Village Train Station: The 1887-built Carlsbad station, which was used by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway until 1960.
Sample Local Brews
No trip to Carlsbad is complete without visiting its craft breweries. Two top picks:
- Pure Project Carlsbad: Located in Carlsbad Village, Pure Project is a standout in the craft beer world. Inspired by sustainability and the founders’ experiences in Costa Rica, the brewery offers a modern, tropical-inspired taproom that’s both welcoming and stylish. Their beers focus on organic ingredients and creativity, featuring everything from hazy IPAs and crisp lagers to barrel-aged sours.
- Pizza Port Brewing CompanyA cornerstone of San Diego’s beer scene, Pizza Port has been crafting exceptional beers since the 1990s. Their Carlsbad location combines their signature relaxed vibe with award-winning brews and delicious pizza. The brewery is family-friendly and great for casual outings.
Dinner at Jeune et Jolie
Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at Jeune et Jolie, one of Carlsbad’s most celebrated restaurants. This modern French-inspired eatery has earned a stellar reputation for its creative cuisine, chic ambiance, and exceptional service, making it a must-visit for food lovers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a luxurious evening, Jeune et Jolie is the perfect choice.
Another great option for dinner is Cicciotti’s Italian: pasta or gnocchi and Lemoncello.
Wine Tasting in the Village
Carlsbad Village is a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts, offering a variety of cozy tasting rooms and boutique wineries. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just exploring the world of wine, the Village is home to exceptional spots where you can sip and savor unique flavors. Here’s a guide to some must-visit locations for wine tasting in Carlsbad Village:
- Witch Creek Winery: As Carlsbad’s oldest urban winery, Witch Creek Winery is a local favorite known for its small-batch, handcrafted wines. They source grapes from top California vineyards, creating bold reds, smooth blends, and refreshing whites. The rustic tasting room in the heart of the Village provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying their signature varietals.
- Carruth Cellars Urban Winery: Brings the vineyard to the city with its industrial-chic tasting room and a commitment to crafting high-quality wines. Using premium grapes sourced from Napa, Sonoma, and Paso Robles, their wines reflect California’s rich winemaking heritage. The welcoming ambiance and knowledgeable staff make this a great spot to learn about and enjoy wine..
- Napatini Wine Bar: If you’re looking for an elegant and modern wine bar experience, Napatini Wine Bar is the place to be. This stylish spot offers an extensive menu of wines from Napa Valley and other prestigious regions, served by the glass or bottle. Their menu also includes expertly crafted wine cocktails, making it a unique stop for those seeking something a little different.
- Costa Azul Winery: Is a family-run boutique winery that reflects Carlsbad’s laid-back coastal lifestyle. Their wines are approachable, well-balanced, and perfect for enjoying in their relaxed tasting room. Costa Azul’s friendly atmosphere makes it a great stop for both wine enthusiasts and casual sippers.
- Carlsbad Urban Wine Tasting Tour: Wine tastings at Witch Creek Winery, Carruth Cellars, and Costa Azul Winery. A knowledgeable guide to lead you through the wine experience. Insight into each winery’s history, winemaking process, and signature wines.
Why Take the Carlsbad Urban Wine Tasting Tour?
- Convenient & Fun: Located in the heart of Carlsbad Village, all three wineries are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the area at a relaxed pace.
- Expert Guides: Your tour will be led by knowledgeable guides who will share insights into the winemaking process, the history of each winery, and the local wine scene.
- Discover Local Gems: You’ll be introduced to some of the best wines in Carlsbad, from boutique creations to award-winning selections.
- Perfect for Groups or Couples: Whether you’re exploring with friends, a partner, or solo, this tour offers a fun and educational experience for everyone.
Book Your Carlsbad Urban Wine Tasting Tour Today
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting your wine journey, the Carlsbad Urban Wine Tasting Tour is the perfect way to explore the vibrant local wine scene. Indulge in exceptional wines, enjoy beautiful surroundings, and discover why Carlsbad is quickly becoming a wine lover’s destination. Cheers! 🍷
Cocktails in the Village
- Same Same: “Thai Basil Smash“
- Campfire: “Smoky Paloma”
- The Plot Express: “Spicy Margarita”
- The Flower Fields Wine Bar: “Lavender Lemonade”
- Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: Includes a Mixology Class (Old Fashion cocktail), Wine Tasting, Beer or Margarita
Additional Things to Do in Carlsbad
If you have extra time, consider adding these activities to your itinerary:
- Legoland California: Perfect for families, with rides, interactive performances, and Lego-themed attractions.
- The Carlsbad Flower Fields: A must-see in spring, featuring 50 acres of vibrant ranunculus flowers.
- Carlsbad Strawberry Company: Pick fresh strawberries or grab a bucket from the farm stand.
- State Street Farmers Market: Held every Wednesday evening, this market is a great place to shop for local produce and artisan goods.
- Making Music Museum: Discover and play musical instruments at a unique museum that tells the story of how instruments were made, used, and sold.
FAQs About Visiting Carlsbad
Is Carlsbad Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Carlsbad, California, is a hidden gem along the Southern California coast, offering a delightful mix of natural beauty, rich history, outdoor activities, and a thriving culinary scene. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, a family-friendly destination, or a foodie’s paradise, Carlsbad has something for everyone.
Where to Stay in Carlsbad
- The Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort: Offers relaxing boutique accommodations just steps from the beach in the vibrant epicenter of downtown Carlsbad. The resort provides a laid-back coastal vibe with the convenience of an incredible location, delivering the comfort and ease you expect from a California getaway.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott: Steps from the beach and local attractions.
- Omni La Costa Resort & Spa: A luxury resort perfect for a relaxing getaway.
- Park Hyatt Aviara: A 5-star resort with world-class amenities.
How to Get to Carlsbad
Carlsbad Village is easily accessible by car via 5 Freeway. Alternatively, the Coaster Commuter Rail stops at the Carlsbad Village Station, right in the heart of town.
Carlsbad is a vibrant destination that combines coastal beauty, rich history, and incredible food. Whether you’re exploring on foot, savoring local flavors with Carlsbad Food Tours, or soaking in the sunset by the beach, this day trip promises unforgettable memories. Cheers to discovering Carlsbad! 🌊🍷
This post was published by Cherimarie Poulos aka Mrs. Carlsbad is the owner and founder of Carlsbad Food Tours!
A Party on the Move!
We plan it, you enjoy! A 3-Hour guided walking tour with 6 tasting locations for food, wine and or beer! Come learn about Carlsbad’s history, culture and architecture while eating your way through our seaside village. Corporate Private Group Experiences are also available upon request for team building events! Gift Cards for our food tours make great experience gifts for the holidays!
Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Podcast: Carlsbad Food Tours
Woman-Veteran-owned business!
Cherimarie loves showcasing the delicious food, deep-rooted history, and unique culture Carlsbad has to offer!
And guess what? By taking a tour with us, you’re helping support local Carlsbad businesses and charities.
Let us break bread together!
Food is the ingredient that binds us together. It is the constant that unites all people. It’s the nourishment of the soul that helps to connect us to our own cultures and beliefs as well as others, bridging gaps in society.