Best Beach Hotels in Carlsbad, California

The Beach Terrace Inn is a boutique-style hotel whose stated mission is to create a climate of relaxation for its guests, which the family-owned establishment calls getting "slow." It's only a few minutes off Interstate 5, providing easy access to popular attractions in the area, such as the inimitable Legoland. The rooms are large by any standard, and many have excellent ocean views. The hotel accommodates families, including young children, but is much more suited to couples seeking a relaxing holiday.

The Carlsbad Seapointe Resort's large, modern condos are convenient for families, with full kitchens and (in most) ocean views. It's across the street from the beach and has lots of kid-friendly activities, including a family pool with a water play area, a playground, fire pits for marshmallow roasting, and miniature golf. But it's a 10-minute drive to the restaurants and shops in downtown Carlsbad, and the beach could be nicer.

The 52-room Ocean Palms Beach Resort offers suites and studios with tropical style and sea-washed furnishings. This mid-range hotel in the Carlsbad Village is situated across the street from the beach and provides beach towels, boogie boards, surf boards, and lounge chairs for guests to borrow. Guests typically appreciate the beautiful, peaceful grounds -- including a lovely outdoor pool and hot tub area, putting green, fire pits, and barbecue grills. There’s no restaurant on-site, but all rooms are equipped with dining areas and full kitchens for in-room cooking, plus a free continental breakfast is served daily. Other conveniences include laundry facilities, a small (but dated) fitness center, and a snack and gift shop. Wi-Fi is free throughout but parking can be an issue as the lot is small. Travelers might also want to consider the comparable Tamarack Beach Resort.

This 400-acre, 611-room megaresort near Legoland is packed with family features, including large rooms, six pools with waterslides, and an impressive kids club. The spa, golf courses, tennis courts, and on-site shopping help ensure adults have fun as well, but there are extra fees for almost everything.

The 161-room Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach is a mid-range property across the street from the beach. It has an outdoor pool and hot tub, a small fitness center, and tiny business center. Guest rooms are comfortable and functional, and have Keurig coffeemakers, iPod docking stations, mini-fridges, and microwaves; some rooms have ocean views. There's free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and the on-site Carlsbad Beach Bistro gets excellent reviews. On-site parking comes with a daily fee. The hotel offers a free shuttle service to anywhere within a five-mile radius, but a car is best for getting around.