Carlsbad California is a Town Worth Exploring

Welcome to Carlsbad California Photo by Kathy Condon

Admittedly, with three road trips to the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, one might think that is the only reason I go. However, this town, located 45 miles from San Diego, 86 miles from Los Angeles, and 117 miles from Palm Springs, has many other attributes.

Reasons Why People Visit Carlsbad

If you ask visitors they they chose Carlsbad, California to visit, you will get answers such as these:

Succulents Thrive in the Ocean Air Photo by Kathy Condon

• I wanted to breathe some fresh ocean air.

  
  

• The food scene is growing and constantly changing, so there is always something new to try.

  
  

• ·Outdoor activities are fun for hiking, surfing, bicycling, kayaking, and bird watching.

  
  

• We are thrilled to be able to camp right on the ocean shore.

  
  

• ·It is a family-friendly town.

  
  

• Great place for retreats, and spas are plentiful.

  
  

• Shopping is interesting downtown because there are many independent retail stores.

  
  

• Carlsbad has seven miles of pristine beaches, a section of the 22-mile cyclist and pedestrian trail called the Coastal Trail, The Strand, Beach Bike Path, or South Bay Bicycle Trail. Depending on your point of view, the trail starts in Torrance, California, or ends at Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles.

The official name of the path is Marvin Braude, and it is named after a Los Angeles City Council Member.

My Additional Reasons for Visiting Carlsbad

• Something is refreshing about walking down a tree-lined Main Street. I always look forward to sitting in the downtown park, which is often used as a gathering place. feel like the surrounding trees embrace me with a sense of peace.

• ·If you ask, the friendly store owners are eager to share information about their chosen city. Since the stores are independently owned, their merchandise is unique and often created locally.

  

  Marie Bartley in Front of Barrio Glassworks Photo by Kathy Condon

• A recent discovery was the Barrio Glassworks. My friend and I spent a great deal of time there. To encourage viewers to stay, barista-style stools are set up along the edge of the studio.

We talked to the glassmakers as they created beautiful objects. Next to the studio is a gallery with gorgeous glassware completed by them and colleagues throughout the United States.

Consignment Shop Downtown Carlsbad California Photo by Kathy Condon

• I’ve always loved visiting consignment Shops. However, many are picked over by resellers who snatch up the quality items. It was a delight to find shops with quality garments hanging there, waiting for me to recognize their value and purchase them to add to my closet.

  
  

• Many restaurants have patios, setting the stage for a great place to sit, people watch, and enjoy your favorite beverage.

  

  Water Distribution Kiosk in Carlsbad California Photo by Kathy Condon

• Each time I go, I learn more about its history and the water's role in developing the area. For example, Carlsbad has the largest water distillery in the world. Its success is being replicated in the building of distilleries.

  
  

• The Museum of Making Music also the Headquarters of NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants), is a delight and provides opportunities for families to explore various musical instruments.

  
  

• The Carlsbad Village Farmer’s Market is enormous and offers opportunities to try unique organic foods prepared with local produce. Of course, you can also purchase local produce.

Walks on the Beach in Carlsbad California

I would be remiss if I didn’t focus more on the beautiful, pristine beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Nothing is better than removing your shoes, walking, and feeling the white sand squishing between your toes.

Sunset in Carlsbad California Photo by Kathy Condon

Stunning Sunsets

Be outside on your hotel’s patio or on the beach to watch the sun slowly set beyond the horizon. You will marvel at the colors and realize that those movies made on the West Coast are real sunsets, not enhanced with technology. They are breathtaking, particularly if there are clouds scattered throughout the sky.

If you are planning a trip to the West Coast, I cannot encourage you enough to make Carlsbad, California, a stop on your itinerary.

Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities living in the shadows of large cities.  760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com   kathy@kathycondon.net