6 Secret Carlsbad California Fun Outdoor Activities

The moment you arrive in Carlsbad, you feel the rest of the world magically fading away. It is the beach and the sound of the waves? Is it the gorgeous sunsets over the Pacific Ocean? Is it communing with Mother Nature? There is so much to do in this wonderful village by the sea that we had to work hard to identify the six things that every visitor MUST do before returning home.

1. One of the most beautiful sites on the West Coast, Carlsbad's famous Flower Fields are transformed into fifty acres of visual splendor each spring from March through early May, framed by the magnificent vistas of the sparkling Pacific ocean. Children can run around and blow off steam while adults linger and enjoy the quiet on the color-filled hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

2. Batiquitos Lagoon is a coastal salt marsh with tidal mud flats - one of the few remaining wetlands in California. Many native plants and more than 185 species of birds can be seen at the lagoon. The lagoon is a destination for nature lovers of all types - bird watchers, artists, joggers, naturalists, hikers and plant lovers love the three miles of trails - trails renown as quiet places for exercise, meditation or simply contemplation. Free naturalist-led tours are offered some weekdays and most weekends.

3. Legoland is a world famous family attraction. It's fun, not overly-expensive and actually quite pleasant - for a theme park. If you've got a big day planned with the kids, we recommend getting there early. Head straight to the popular Indiana Jones and Land of Adventure rides, then the Test Track roller coaster. Lines can get long at the most popular attractions the day goes on, but are short first thing in the morning, and are always shorter than Disneyland or Knott's Berry Farm.

4. The tree-lined village of downtown Carlsbad is the perfect place to walk, shop, dine and sight-see. Find a parking spot and set off on foot to explore Carlsbad Village where you will find unusual boutiques, eclectic antique shops, lovely jewelry shops, European toy stores, an amazing array of clothing stores, quaint pubs and architecturally significant historic homes. A well-known landmark is the historic Alt Karlsbad Hanse Hous, site of the first mineral water spa, a mainstay of Carlsbad Village since the 1880s.

5. The Carlsbad Farmer's Market in the Village is a fun and lively bazaar. Visitors and locals alike flock here to buy local fruits and vegetables and other unique and hard-to-find products. The market is open every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon and is located on Roosevelt between Grand and Carlsbad Village Drive.

6. Agua Hedionda Lagoon and its surrounding wetland is an Ecological Reserve under the care of the California Department of Fish and Game. The 3,800 sq. ft. Discovery Center celebrated its Grand Opening on Earth Day, April 22, 2006 and showcases exhibits portraying the wetlands, including the native indians that once inhabited the lagoon. Visitors enjoy spectacular views overlooking the lagoon below and Pacific Ocean. Under the direction of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, the Discovery Center's mission is to promote the environmental protection of the lagoon. Friendly docents are present to answer question and guide you through the exhibit.