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Flower Fields Carlsbad

BEST Weekend Trip in the Spring: Carlsbad

Have you ever wanted to have a family getaway that was actually just easy? Our roadtrip to Carlsbad felt that way. Maybe it was the sunny, spring weather, the proximity to the ocean at all times or our kids being in good moods, but our weekend was absolutely a breeze from start to finish. 

 

WHERE TO STAY

 

The Cassara Carlsbad is a charming, family friendly hotel, with several pools, large suite style rooms and a restaurant on-site. It overlooks the ocean and the flower fields, but feels secluded. Our kids loved the pool that had a splash pad and an arcade next door– very laidback and perfect for a cool down after a morning out. Breakfast on site made it super easy to fuel up before heading out as well, and those we didn’t try it, Karl Stauss Brewpub was literally next door so we had another dining option without getting in car. 

One of the pools at The Cassara Carlsbad

The best part about the hotel might have to be the location. It looks over the flower fields (more on that later), is a 2 minute walk to Legoland and it’s several minutes by car to the Windmill Food Hall. Not to mention the ocean and downtown Carlsbad being under a 10 minute drive.

From March 1 to May 11th, the resort is offering a Stay & See package which includes includes an overnight luxury stay at the resort, free parking, flower fields-inspired welcome beverages, and two tickets to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Highly recommend booking during this season! 

 

THINGS TO DO

 

Legoland

Entrance of LEGOLAND

Entrance of LEGOLAND

The most obvious one can’t be missed– LEGOLAND! It’s a super fun park especially for kids on the younger end. Even though we visited on a weekend, I felt the lines were relatively short and the park didn’t seem too crowded. Both my 3 and 6 year old loved the Dragon Coaster, Ninjago and the Submarine ride. You cannot miss Pirate Reef, where you shoot the other boats with water. Be warned– we were soaked! Legoland food was better than expected and we liked the Sea Life Aquarium that was included in our ticket. Be sure to check out their deals as we got our kids tickets at half price. 

Link: https://www.legoland.com/california/

 

The Flower Fields (only open March to mid May)

Flower Fields Carlsbad

Flower Fields Carlsbad

The Flower Fields Carlsbad is an absolutely stunning experience is only open for 6 weeks so plan your trip wisely! Come for the photo opps in the acres of flowers, all planted by color to create a rainbow effect, or come to enjoy the different garden areas that they’ve created. I loved that they had a scavenger hunt for kids, bird aviaries and a butterfly experience (extra $8). The butterfly experience was worth it though– my kids had dozens of butterflies on them and were able to feed them with a nectar q-tip. There’s also food, ice cream and playground. This is easily a full morning or full afternoon adventure. 

Link: https://www.theflowerfields.com/

 

 

Kids & Coffee

One of the best indoor kids play places ever

Show me a better indoor play gym in Southern California?! I have been to many and this is by far the biggest, cleanest and most interesting play gym for all ages. I am still shocked by how much went into the design and aesthetic. I was shocked that my 6 year old was still just as entertained as my 3 year old! And they serve food, coffee and healthy kid snacks. Win! 

Link: https://www.kidsandcoffee.love/

 

Candle Making

Candle Bar Carlsbad

I think all ages can appreciate make your own candle! My daughter had so much fun designing her own perfect candle in this shop- Candle Bar Carlsbad– from choosing the scent, the wick, the vessel and especially the decorations on top. Plus, we got to bring it home with us!

Link: https://carlsbadcandlebar.com/

 

Beach

I can’t not mention the beach when I am in a SoCal beach town! The big dunes were fun for sliding and my kids searched for shells. I wish we had packed a picnic and wine– next time!

 

DINING

Campfire

Campire Restaurant Carlsbad

Campfire Restaurant is the best!

Quite well known, Campfire is a reputable restaurant books up so be sure to get those reservations in advance. We had a 4:45pm reservation (yes our kids eat early!) which worked out perfectly. We grabbed a drink, played cards at the table and enjoyed one of the best meals we’ve had in a while. I appreciate their healthy take on kids food– grilled proteins with broccoli and pasta. Don’t miss the table s’mores or their amazing broccoli appetizer! 

 

Windmill Food Hall

With so many options under one roof, this lively food hall is perfect for a meal, a snack or even just dessert! I saw everything from lobster rolls to ramen, homemade tortillas to wood fired pizza. Our crew opted for the latter but I need to come back to sample more. 

 

Choice Juicery

Bowls & Smoothies at the Choice in downtown Carlsbad

Bowls & Smoothies at the Choice in downtown Carlsbad

Served out of an airstream, this charming smoothie stop is perfect for kids with the big grassy lawn, adirondack chairs and chalkboard wall that surrounds it. My kids got the blue and pink unicorn smoothie–all made from natural ingredients, while I had a tropical bowl of my dreams!

 

Though we did a lot in a short time, our crew left Carlsbad super happy and refreshed. We had so many memories together and everything felt so seamless. I’d definitely recommend Carlsbad, particularly in the spring to avoid the beach crowds, and be sure to check out those flower fields!

 

The Catalina Island Guide For Everyone

 

My second time visiting Catalina made me fall even more in love with this island just off the Southern California coast. This time around, I was not pregnant and it was one of my first trips away from my infant daughter–meaning MOM WAS OFF DUTY! I was ready to dive into all the experiences on Catalina that I couldn’t do the first time around.

What always gets me is how This island is popular for all types of travelers–from the wee ones to the older set, the luxury seekers to the adrenaline junkies. With 48 hours to enjoy, I chose to do a little bit of everything.

THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURER

Highlights: I enjoyed a whole new perspective of Catalina from the treetops. The Aerial Adventure ropes course has routes for beginners to the experts. The beautifully designed courses subtly blend in with the surrounding nature. Challenge yourself to jump off platforms, maneuver around and balance feet above the ground.

Tips: Work up your confidence by starting with one of the two beginner routes. Once you get the hang of the ropes and clipping/unclipping, you can move on to the intermediate and advanced routes.

Cost: Adults, $49.95, Children/Seniors/Military: $39.95

Also check out: Zipline Eco Tour

THE LUXURY SEEKER

Highlights: The former Wrigley residence, the Mt Ada hotel is only accessible for those staying in one of the 12 guest rooms– unless you have a lunch reservation. Step inside this former Wrigley residence to enjoy a memorable lunch on their wraparound patio, which might be my favorite view of Catalina Island. The three course lunch includes your choice of champagne, wine or beer.

Tips: Take a golf cart up to the hotel for a scenic drive.

Cost: $62 per person

Also check out: the Island Spa Catalina to pamper yourself poolside.

THE WATER BABY

  • Kayaking off of Descanso Beach

Highlights: The waters around Catalina are crystal clear and a stunning turquoise shade of blue. Appreciate their clarity upclose from your own kayak. You can opt for a guided tour or just taking one out on your own and either way, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking coastal views and new appreciation for California’s rugged beauty.

Tips: Take the Journey to Frog Rock tour to be treated to insider knowledge on the island and a stop on a breathtaking beach only accessible by boat.

Cost: $22 Single Kayak, $30 Double Kayak; Frog Rock Tour: $54 Adults, Children 25% off

Kayaks, jet skis and other watercraft are usually docked at a jet ski floating dock in Freeport NY which can be built by the experts from EZ Dock of Long Island.

Also check out: Snorkeling

THE HISTORY BUFF

Highlights: I wouldn’t say I seek out every museum when I travel but I am sure glad that I toured the recently built Catalina Museum. The building itself is a work of art and the exhibits are fascinating. Walk through on your own or take a guided tour to learn about the stories that give this island its unique personality. From Hollywood starlets to presidents, baseball heroes to wartime tales–Catalina’s history is truly unexpected and exciting.

Tips: Come for one of their monthly outdoor movie screenings located on the roof. Do not miss the Bird Park exhibit that shares the quirky history of the exotic bird sanctuary that once existed in town.

Cost: $17 Adults/Children (under 15) Free

Also check out: Wrigley’s Catalina

THE FAMILY TRIP

Highlights: Just under the water, there’s a whole new world of marine life. Dive into it without ever getting wet on the Undersea Expedition. It’s a safe, comfortable way for an up close look at the vivid Garibaldi, the impressive kelp forests and maybe an occasional dolphin if you are lucky.

Photo courtesy of Catalina Undersea Adventure

Tips: Be prepared for lots of photo opportunities both in the submersible and above the water when they sail back on the surface.

Cost: $39.95 Adults/$37.95 Children

Also check out: Glass Bottom Boat Voyage

THE FOOD FOCUSED

Highlights: A circular bar, comfortable booths and water views, the Avalon Grille tastes as good as it looks. Menu signatures include the hangar steak and the pan seared scallops and I particularly loved the tempura green beans.

Tips: This restaurant is popular so definitely book ahead. And order yourself a Wrigley Martini for me.

Cost: Appetizers around $18, Entrées around $35

Also check out: Bluewater Grill

IMPORTANT TRAVEL DETAILS

Where to Stay: The Pavilion Hotel

Personally, I wouldn’t want to stay anywhere else. The waterfront location is an easy walk from the ferry and perfectly situated to access all the main spots in Avalon by foot.

I love the tropical courtyard where you can enjoy their included (hearty) breakfast spread in the cool mornings or toast to a fun day next to the fire pits during the complimentary wine hour. The crisp, nautical rooms are spacious and comfortable and the included bike rental was very helpful for getting around.

Cost:  $180 to $350 per night, dependent on season

Getting There: Catalina Express

The ferry ride is half the fun of going to Catalina, in my opinion. With many departures daily, this hour cruise covers the 22 watery miles in just an hour. Sip on bloody marys in the Commodore’s Lounge or soak up the sun on the outer deck. You might even spot a dolphin or a whale! Cost: $74.50 Adult Roundtrip/ $59 Children Roundtrip/ Under 2 years old Free