A Breath of Fresh Air in Carlsbad this Winter

Now is the time of year where we’re making goals and planning for the year ahead. Wintertime will be around for awhile, but in Carlsbad winter doesn’t mean staying inside and waiting for the sun to come out. With year-round sun, Carlsbad’s amazing beaches, hiking trails, stunning resorts and hotels, and fantastic dining and culinary delights are all open and ready to dive into, no matter what time of year it is. Spending time outside is especially important this winter. Luckily, in Carlsbad you can breath in the fresh ocean air and get some exercise outdoors throughout the winter months. If you’re in Carlsbad this winter, be sure to check out any of these beautiful outdoor activities as you jump into 2021.

Carlsbad Beaches

Carlsbad is home to seven miles of coastal bliss. The coastline has beaches for every activity. Whether you want to take a stroll down the boardwalk to soak in the views, try your hand at tackling the surf, or want to camp out to bask in a Pacific Coast sunset, Carlsbad beaches have something for everyone.

North Carlsbad Beaches stretch upwards from Carlsbad Village to the Oceanside border. They are jointly owned by the state and property owners, making them a quiet place to take a walk and enjoy the views. A little further down the coast, Tamarack State Beach is a quintessential Southern California stretch of sand that offers swimming, surfing, fishing, and relaxation. The beach is located just south of Tamarack Avenue and features the Carlsbad Seawall, a paved 4-mile walking path along the coast. With restrooms, picnic areas and parking, Tamarack State Beach is a great beach for families.

For surfers, Terramar Beach is a somewhat hidden and private beach just south of the Carlsbad Power plant. The break is a perfect challenge for novices and experts alike.  If you move south towards San Diego, South Carlsbad State Beach extends from Palomar Airport Road to La Costa Avenue and gives visitors a place to pitch a tent and set up camp.

Carlsbad Village

The Carlsbad Village is the heart and soul of the city. Its downtown area sprawls along the coast and is accurately referred to as ‘downtown by the sea’. What makes the Carlsbad Village unique is its sprawling outdoor layout and wide array of shops, activities, and attractions. You can take a walk through the Village and soak up the sun while having everything from food to shopping and a farmers market all at an arm’s reach. The stores have everything from gifts to local art. Shopping local supports the community and gives visitors a great chance to take part in the joy of Carlsbad. The State Street Farmers Market is open every Wednesday and guests can stock up on fresh produce while interacting with local farmers.

From coffee shops to theaters, juiceries, and fine dining, the Carlsbad Village is a fantastic place to get your steps in while absorbing everything Carlsbad has to offer.

Trails & Hiking

Southern California is home to a wide array of different landscapes. From sandy beaches to snow capped mountains and everything in between, Southern California is a nature lover’s dream. Carlsbad has the most outdoor trails in all of San Diego. There are hikes along the water, trails for mountain bikers, and historic landmarks to explore.

The Buena Vista Lagoon is the only freshwater lagoon in California. With over 350 acres of land and water, the Lagoon attracts all sorts of different types of wildlife. It has a Nature Center and two trails that branch off and stretch around the ecological reserve. Slightly south of the Lagoon is Aviara Trails. Aviara Trails  is an expansive system of trails with hikes for every skill set. The Black Sage Trail features the native sage plant that has found its home along the trail and the canyons alongside it. The Eucalyptus Trail runs through groves of eucalyptus trees and has a steep topography with breathtaking views. At Aviara, there is a hike for everyone. If you’re looking for a short hike, the Calavera Hills Village H North Trail is a great choice. Just north of Carlsbad VIllage Drive, this .5 mile hike runs along a long narrow canyon with hilltops and eucalyptus trees scattered throughout.

Wintertime is anything but dark and gloomy in Southern California. Hit the beaches, visit the Carlsbad Village, or explore new trails this winter for a breath of fresh air and a chance to experience the great outdoors.