The Best Hotels to Book Near Legoland California

If youre looking for a sophisticated oasis after a trip to Legoland, opt for the Spanish-inspired Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa
If you're looking for a sophisticated oasis after a trip to Legoland, opt for the Spanish-inspired Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa | Courtesy of Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa / Expedia.com
Sadie Whitelocks

Legoland California promises fun for the whole family, with dozens of rides and attractions and more than 30,000 Lego models to keep you busy for days. Opened in 1999, this location was the third Legoland in the world and the first outside of Europe. Get there early and beat the lines by basing yourself close to the park. Here, we reveal some of the most conveniently located hotels, bookable on Culture Trip.

1. The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Luxury, Spa Hotel

The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Courtesy of the Lodge at Torrey Pines / Expedia.com

Lap up old-school luxury at this upscale lodge, which boasts a wonderful setting atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla. The property has 170 rooms, including larger suites that are perfect for larger parties or families. A refined, country-lodge feel runs throughout with Tiffany-style lamps, comfy armchairs and dark-wood detailing. Many of the rooms have fireplaces and private terrace spaces. In terms of facilities, the hotel includes two restaurants and lounges, a full-service spa and fitness center, extensive banquet and meeting facilities and an ample outdoor recreation area with a pool and cabanas. There are lots of attractions in the area, with Legoland making for one of the most popular day trips. The park is around a 20-minute drive away, with great views from the coastal road along the way.

2. MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort

Resort

MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort
Courtesy of MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort / Expedia.com

Roll straight out of bed and onto your favorite rides and attractions at this smart hotel, which is conveniently located around the corner from Legoland. The expansive Mediterranean villa-style property has a range of condos and spacious suites, which are perfect for longer-term stays. The larger condos include full kitchens. On the facility side of things, the large swimming pool, fringed by palm trees and lounge chairs, is worth a visit.

3. The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Chain Hotel

The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Courtesy of the Cassara Carlsbad / Expedia.com

Park yourself on the doorstep of Legoland and the Sea Life aquarium at this upscale Hilton-operated hotel. The property offers 119 contemporary-styled rooms, with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding patio doors allowing for plenty of natural light. The grounds are also worth exploring, with one large lap pool and a whirlpool along with a children’s splash area and smaller pool. For fitness fanatics, there is a sports court, a gym and a golf course in the area with a free shuttle to get there. Or, if you fancy taking things easy, there are cabanas where you can recline with a cocktail while soaking up sublime coastal views.

5. Carlsbad by the Sea Hotel

Hotel

Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel
Courtesy of Carlsbad by the Sea Hotel / Expedia.com

As the name suggests, this hotel is less than 1mi (1.6km) from the beach and is also within walking distance of Legoland and dozens of other attractions including the Carlsbad Flower Fields and the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, with more than 80 stores and restaurants. A calm atmosphere runs throughout the property, with sandy hues and shades of ocean blue making for an attractive mix. Many of the rooms serve up views of either the serene courtyard areas or the central outdoor pool.

6. Inn at Moonlight Beach

Eco Hotel

Inn at Moonlight Beach
Courtesy of Inn at Moonlight Beach / Expedia.com

If you’re looking for a standout hotel experience, then this eco-friendly wellness spot promises to leave a lasting impression. There are just five suites, all with unique furnishings. The place has an exotic feel, with natural wood furnishings, Buddhist statues and lush gardens brimming with bamboo and banana plants. This place makes for a dreamy retreat after a day of park-going; it is around a 15-minute drive from Legoland and just set back from the beach. All of the suites have terrace spaces with ocean views; you can further your state of zen by dipping into the specialty tea menu, which features a wide array of Ayurvedic and Chinese medicinal herbal options.

7. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

Boutique Hotel

A luxurious guest casita with high exposed-beam ceilings at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa
Courtesy of Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa / Expedia
Amid 45 acres (18ha) of lush foliage, this Spanish-inspired resort serves as a tropical oasis where relaxation is the word of the day. Everything about this hotel – which is Southern California’s only Relais & Châteaux property – exudes effortless sophistication, from the spa to the resplendent suites. Other highlights include the on-site restaurant, which is a popular spot among locals, with Californian produce fashioned into Instagrammable dishes and an award-winning wine list. In terms of location, this hotel benefits from a more sedate setting in the upscale Rancho Santa Fe neighborhood, but Legoland and many other attractions are around a 30-minute drive away. Staff will be happy to help you devise an itinerary.

8. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Spa and Golf Club

Resort, Spa Hotel, Golf Hotel

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Spa & Golf Club
Courtesy of Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Spa and Golf Club / Expedia.com

Relax in luxury at this exquisite Hyatt spa and golf resort. The property, set amid 200 acres (80ha) of manicured parkland overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon, promises to keep you on your toes with an impressive spread of amenities, from tennis courts to fine-dining restaurants. One of the highlights, especially for children, is the two-story waterslide. For those who fancy a more serene swim, there is a photogenic pool deck overlooking the coast. If you can pry yourself away from the resort, Legoland makes for a great day trip and is just 10 minutes away by car.

9. Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara

Villa, Luxury

Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego
Courtesy of Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara / Expedia.com

For a true taste of the California high life, splurge on a stay here. This Four Seasons Residence Club offers sublime villa rentals, which look like something from an interior design magazine. In true Four Seasons style, the rooms feature elegant modern furnishings in bright neutral tones. The units can sleep up to six adults; the bigger villas include full kitchens and laundry facilities. Spacious lounge areas compete with fireplaces, and terraces make these mini-apartments the perfect places to entertain. Here, you’re well placed to explore all of the area’s attractions – including Legoland, which is less than a 15-minute ride away.

Extend your California vacation by exploring San Diego; it’s only a 30-minute drive from Legoland. Check out how to spend a weekend in the city, and don’t miss the must-see landmarks. For a romantic stay, read great date ideas for when you’re in San Diego.

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