Carlsbad hotels

This stunning luxury hotel in Carlsbad sits right on the Batiquitos Lagoon and offers guests zen-like water views. It’s also minutes away from popular attractions like Legoland and the Carlsbad Flower Fields, and is home to a world-class Arnold Palmer golf course.

Whitewashed wood floors and an impressive modern glass chandelier in the lobby give guests a taste of the experience ahead. Meanwhile, amenities include sparkling resort pools and the signature restaurant, Ember & Rye, helmed by Top Chef champ Richard Blais, which serves perfectly cooked steaks and dishes made from fresh California ingredients.

In the summer months, I love sitting by the pool sipping a delicious hand-crafted cocktail while my kids tire themselves out on the waterslide. Cooler weather means spending the evening in the Topgolf Swing Suite followed by s’mores roasting at one of the giant fire pits overlooking the ocean.

For those seeking more space than a standard hotel room and a home-away-from-home-but-make-it-luxe experience, look no further. The serene Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara is located on the same property as the Park Hyatt Aviara and offers guestrooms with kitchenettes, one and two-bedroom “residences”, and even villas with full kitchens and terraces for al fresco dining.

Each room is tastefully decorated in cool California coastal style and a concierge can stock your room’s fridge to your liking before you arrive.

Guests have access to the top-rated Aviara Golf Club, a coffee bar, on-site restaurant, sauna, pool, and kids’ club. I love grabbing a latte and taking a morning walk around the Batiquitos Lagoon while the birds are chirping. If you decide to hit up one of the nearby beaches or parks, they can even prepare a packed lunch for an idyllic picnic outing.

Nestled among swoon-worthy beach cottages, the family-owned Beach Terrace Inn boasts an unbeatable location, right on the sand. The roomy guest accommodations – many with terraces that stretch out right over the sand – are supremely relaxing, making it no surprise that it ranks as one of the best hotels in Carlsbad.

With access to a private beach, guests will be wowed by panoramic ocean views at every turn. The beach is a throwback in time with vintage-inspired beach umbrellas and wood lounge chairs practically begging guests to slow down and enjoy the view. Towels, toys, and boogie boards are also on hand, so you don’t have to pack anything extra.

A complimentary light breakfast is included with your stay and when you want a break from the salty ocean air, you can easily walk to a number of shops, restaurants, and bars in bustling Carlsbad Village.