The Best Hotels to Book Near Flower Fields, Carlsbad
The Cassara Carlsbad offers a tranquil base from which to explore this charming town | Courtesy of The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton / Expedia
Since 1965, this southern Californian town between San Diego and Los Angeles has seen an influx of visitors each spring, who come to witness 70 million blooms between March and May. Join in the fun with a stay in one of these top Carlsbad hotels, all bookable with Culture Trip.
Celebrating this annual burst of flowers is a springtime ritual in Carlsbad, with special events throughout the season that include photography workshops and Mother’s Day Celebrations – alongside impromptu photoshoots of visitors posing among the rainbow hues of giant ranunculus flowers in vibrant purples, reds and yellows. It doesn’t hurt that the fields are close to LEGOLAND, beaches, outlet malls, golf courses, and some great restaurants.
This clean hotel is within walking distance to the Flower Fields and less than a mile from the beach. It has 145 refreshed rooms in beachy tones across six buildings, and manicured grounds that include a spacious terrace and firepit, and a heated outdoor pool and spa. There’s a shuttle to any destination within a three-mile radius, including LEGOLAND and Palomar Airport. Ask for guest perks, like discounts on SUP yoga courses, and borrow beach chairs, yoga mats, and bodyboards. There’s no restaurant on site but the Carlsbad Windmill Food Hall is a walk away, with lobster rolls and Korean bibimbap rice bowls to dig into. Rooms include mini-fridges, and microwaves are available upon request.
This Mediterranean-style hotel is part of the Hilton brand and sits on a ridge above the Flower Fields for those who want easy access – and views. It’s walking distance from LEGOLAND, while a free shuttle provides access to outlet shopping and beaches in the area. The property has two resort size pools, a family splash pad, and a 24-hour fitness center. There are 90 fully renovated rooms with light, modern décor, as well as Keurig coffee makers and mini-fridges. The bright lobby is the centerpiece, especially at the Cassara Kitchen & Bar that showcases southern Californian fare like Baja Fish Tacos, plus seasonal cocktails (try the Hibiscus Sour).
For travelers who want a little more space, this large one- or two-bedroom comfortable condos – many with ocean views – come with living rooms, dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies. Outside there are two pools, one for kids and one for adults, as well as a playground and mini-golf course. It’s best to have a car here for anything other than the beach across the street, but it’s just a short drive to the Flower Fields and LEGOLAND, as well as Carlsbad’s local grocery stores, shopping, and restaurants.
This upper-mid-range resort has 250 rooms and attracts mostly families who make use of the hotel’s private pedestrian entrance to LEGOLAND. Recently refreshed rooms have earth tones, mini-fridges and Starbucks coffee (microwaves are available for a fee), plus balconies with either garden views or distant glimpses of the sea. There’s also an attractive lagoon-style pool with palm trees, games, a water slide, and all-day poolside dining for burgers, pizzas, gelato, and a full bar. Other amenities include access to The Crossings golf course, as well as a spa and fitness center with updated equipment. There’s a shuttle to the beach in the summer months and continental breakfast is available to buy in the morning.
This Mariott is a bit more upscale than its sister property, the Sheraton, and both are within walking distance of LEGOLAND and The Crossings golf course. Elegant rooms have contemporary furnishings, bathrobes, and Westin Heavenly Beds. Dining options include a pricey breakfast buffet or guests can opt for grab-and-go items and Starbucks Coffee instead. There’s also a poolside restaurant, and coastal restaurant, which provides ocean views and sophisticated plates like beet and burrata salad and prime cuts of chophouse steak. Wellness travelers can use the spa, 24-hour pool, and fitness center with high-end equipment including a Peloton bike – or go for a jog using the running maps available at the front desk.
This timeshare property next to the Sheraton and Westin offers 208 units, which are either studios with kitchenettes or fully equipped condos to fit large families, in up to three bedrooms. The location, like others on this list, boasts a private entrance to LEGOLAND and easy access to golf, shops, and restaurants, accessed on foot. Two big pools and whirlpools are open year-round, and you can dry off after your swim around the large fire pit. The cushy seating areas have plenty of games to keep you busy, or there’s the fitness center, wine tastings, and access to Westin’s restaurant, Twenty/20 Grill, next door. Parking is free and there are complimentary laundry facilities in each building.
This renovated, former apartment building attracts couples, families, and surfers keen to be located directly on a private slice of beach. Family-owned and operated, the hotel has modern rooms with spacious work desks that either face the courtyard or the ocean – and private balconies for a higher price tag. Relax at the beachside pool or ask staff to borrow beach chairs and umbrellas. Start the day with a free continental breakfast in the pretty indoor/outdoor dining space, and for other meals, a range of great restaurants can be recommended just a short drive away. Parking is free.
This Hilton is across the street from the beach, via Highway 101, and a short drive from the area’s main attractions. Simplistic rooms offer mini-fridges, microwaves, and Keurig coffee makers — some with ocean views. There’s an outdoor pool, indoor/outdoor communal seating areas with fireplaces, plus a fitness center and bicycles for rent. Parking comes with a fee but you can take the free shuttle to places within a five-mile radius, including LEGOLAND and the Flower Fields. Check out the newly renovated all-day restaurant and bar, for pulled pork sliders and grilled veggie wraps, or there’s a convenience shop for takeaway meals.
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