Itineraries for Your Trip to Carlsbad
3 Days in Carlsbad for Foodies
In the not-too-distant past, there was a time when my family's Carlsbad dinner plan didn't progress further than an In-N-Out burger and Granny's Apple Fries at Legoland. But once my kids surpassed meltdown age, we began to explore the wonderful world of food offerings in San Diego's "North County" region. There are craft beers to chase on the Hops Highway, a world of post-surfing taco bliss, and restaurants specializing in superb plant-based meals—all in and around the Carlsbad coast. That's a lot to fit in between the ethnic diversity of the Orange County scene and the fresh, relaxed cuisine of San Diego, where even more is to be discovered.
Here's how to eat your way through three days in Carlsbad.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a bike ride along the North County beaches with stops for food.
Expect warm and sunny weather much of the year, but a lightweight jacket is good for cooler mornings and evenings.
Getting out on the water to see the plentiful marine life is a great way to start your stay in Carlsbad. Not only will you see gorgeous views of the coastline, but you will likely be able to see dolphins, seals, and whales that migrate through the area.
Check out the food scene in Carlsbad Village for a wide range of delicious options. Try Campfire, complete with tipis and fire pits, or try Windmill Food Hall to sample several different local food vendors, including Cross Street Chicken and Beer, where Korean food meets Southern fried chicken.
Encinitas is a surfer's paradise south of Carlsbad and a fun place to explore. Along with taco shops serving enormous California burritos, you'll find yoga studios and health-focused eateries doling out delicious plant-based dishes and vegan alternatives.
The craft beer scene has a long history in San Diego County and is steadily growing. Check out the scene in Oceanside, just north of Carlsbad. The city has set up O'side Sips passport program (found online) to get you to all the local drink makers, including South O Brewing Company.
Temecula Valley is an up-and-coming wine region that is well worth a visit. Try out the valley's syrah and Sangiovese, which have both earned top awards. Wilson Creek Winery and Frangipani Estate Winery are two favorites.
An alternative to a trip to Temecula is to bike San Diego’s North County beach towns, including Cardiff, Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Del Mar. Each has charms and attractions, such as Swami’s Beach in Encinitas. Biking from town to town is a great way to nibble through the SoCal beach life.
