Our favorite local hiking spot. Beautiful views, low intensity, and can walk the beach on the way back! A San Diego must.
The San Diego Zoo absolutely lives up to its hype. Plan on being here for 3-5 hours as its massive. In fact, it doubles as the largest botanical garden in all of Southern California. Tickets cost $72 for adults, $62 for kids and includes a skytram with your admission.
*They sell alcohol and food but you can bring these things in too if you want to avoid overpriced items inside.
The zoo is inside of Balboa Park, so we recommend stopping by before or after to enjoy the beauty, gardens, and museums.
Larger than New York’s Central Park, Balboa boasts a variety of gardens, museums, and street performers all encompassed by Spanish-style buildings. You’ll also find San Diego’s world famous zoo in balboa park.
An iconic hotel that rests on the water, this hotel inspired the Emerald City from The Wizard of Oz. The hotel includes several restaurants, bars, and shops.
It’s a trek to get to from Carlsbad but you won’t regret the views and vacation vibes.
Our second date location! Great for lunch, dinner, and/or a drink. This location (headquarters) is only 10 minutes from the wedding venue.
The Safari Park, closer to the hotels and wedding venue than the zoo, includes vast plains and rolling hills filled with African animals. Your ticket includes a free tram around the enclosure and you have the option to purchase tickets to additional experiences (tethered hot air balloon, safari experience, feeding animals, etc.). There are other animal exhibits here as well, including an Australian stroll with kangaroos and a platypus.
Andrew prefers the zoo, while Natalie enjoys the Safari park more. Its a great debate!
Golf at this famous course overlooking the Pacific Ocean!
Every SATURDAY from 8:00 AM to 2:00PM. Grab coffee, breakfast, or lunch at one of the market food trucks! Browse specialty foods and local artists' work. The farmer's market is a fun experience and one of our favorite weekend activities even if you just plan on strolling around.
For those staying in Carlsbad, this is a great outlet mall shopping opportunity ;)