CARLSBAD’S SUMMER BUCKET LIST
You think you know Carlsbad? Well, try again. Whether you’re a local, a transplant or tourist, we’ve got 10 things you should do at least once this summer. Get ready, set, go!
- AWESOME IS BACK
After shutting down for a year, LEGOLAND® California Resort opened its doors again in April. And on May 27, 2021, kids and families will be able to enjoy its newest attraction with the opening of THE LEGO® MOVIE™ WORLD, which brings the blockbuster films THE LEGO® MOVIE™ and THE LEGO® MOVIE™ 2: The Second Part, to life.
- DISCOVER OUR LOCAL WILDLIFE
Located on Faraday Avenue and Cannon Road, the Agua Hedionda Discovery Center offers exhibits including archeological digs, aquariums, a live observation bee hive, aquaponics, butterfly corner and hiking trails for everyone to explore. A little bit further south, you will find the Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Center with exhibits of local wildlife 
as well as many artifacts from the local Indian tribes, 1.6 miles of walking trails and many nice views.
- SNAP A PHOTO OF THE LATEST ART MURAL
The Carlsbad Art Wall (CAW) project invites a different artist every two months to paint a colorful mural on the east facing wall of Señor Grubby’s in Carlsbad Village. The mural has become a city staple.
- TAKE A BIKE RIDE ALONG THE 101
Hop on your bike or e-bike for an epic ride. Feel the sea breeze in your face and look at the shimmering ocean, while checking out Carlsbad’s beautiful beaches. Awake all senses at once, while you enjoy the amazing view. Don’t have a bike of your own? Head over to Pedego Electric Bikes Carlsbad to get you started.
- SUNBATHE AT SOUTH PONTO BEACH
In case you didn’t know, South Ponto Beach is one of the widest beaches in the county. Coast Highway 101 hugs the shoreline here, with Batiquitos Lagoon on the other side of the highway. You can swim, surf, sunbathe or play beach volleyball.
- FUN AT THE AGUA HEDIONDA LAGOON
There’s no shortage of fun in Carlsbad. Relax on the water while enjoying the nice ocean breeze. The lagoon is open for boating, sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. But kayaking is one of the most popular activities.
Check out California Water Sports for motorized and non-motorized rentals.
- SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP…
…at any or all of Carlsbad’s three shopping hubs: Carlsbad Premium Outlets, the newly renovated The Shoppes at Carlsbad, The Forum Carlsbad and the Village. Find the latest trends on fashion and the perfect gift to take back home.
- TAKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME
Celebrate our country’s heritage and reconnect with our founders. Focused on colonial-American history, the Green Dragon Tavern & Museum showcases authentic original documents and features still prevalent innovations and perspectives of those who shaped our country. Enjoy dinner or a drink at the restaurant next door to make it a complete adventure.
- ATTENTION MUSIC LOVERS
Need a break from the sun? After a year of renovations, the Museum of Making Music is opening their doors again on Tuesday, June 15th. The re-envisioned Carlsbad-based cultural institution will reveal a vibrant, dynamic, and immersive experience across four new galleries.
- TEE TIME ANYONE?
Carlsbad is home to 4 great golf courses, including former PGA and current LPGA venues. Two of them are located at beautiful resorts: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa and Omni La Costa Resort & Spa. But check out The Crossings at Carlsbad for scenic views and Rancho Carlsbad Golf Course for a shorter course.