Carlsbad resident Tony Marcotti
When it comes to summer, surfing and sunshine, California is a travel hero. And with 1,344 kilometres (840 miles) of coastline, the Golden State has dozens of Pacific Ocean-facing cities and beach towns where you can kick off your flip flops and dive into an unforgettable holiday. One such place is Carlsbad.
Located about 55 kilometres (34 miles) north of San Diego, Carlsbad was founded as a cattle station along the Spanish Camino Real and settled by Anglo ranchers in the late 1860s. These days, the sunny city of roughly 115,000 inhabitants embodies a sand-in-toes lifestyle that lures travellers, families, surfers, and seekers of the good life to its beaches, shops, restaurants, surf breaks, golf courses, and waterfront hotels.
Best of all, residents are as warm as the weather and are happy to dish about where to eat, play, surf and more. We caught up with Anthony Marcotti, owner of The Camp Store restaurant and event space at South Carlsbad State Beach, who says his beloved hometown is a must-stop on any good California road trip. We couldn’t agree more.
Here are more insider travel tips from Marcotti in his favourite Village by the Sea.
(Photos courtesy of VisitCarlsbad and The Camp Store)
What makes Carlsbad so special?
The abundance of outdoor activities is unrivaled. In the summer expect not just to enjoy our beaches, but also an expansive network of hiking trails, lagoon activities, world-class golf courses, family friendly parks, outdoor shopping, and of course Legoland. It’s the perfect place to get everyone outside where they should be.
Describe your perfect summer day?
It’s hard to beat a quick morning surf followed by a round of golf at one of our local courses. Being able to play renowned courses like La Costa or Park Hyatt Aviara is on most golfers’ bucket list.
Can you share your favourite surf break or is it top secret?
The far northern end of Carlsbad is fickle but occasionally yields a few surprises and offers a less crowded lineup overall.
What’s your favourite beach to visit with your family?
South Carlsbad State Beach feels like home. We like to walk down the stairs in front of The Camp Store most of the time.
For walkers and hikers, where should they go?
Batiquitos Lagoon (a coastal wetlands with a public walking and hiking trail) at sunrise or sunset never disappoints. The rich history and heritage of Batiquitos makes you feel like you’ve traveled somewhere exotic despite it literally being in our backyard.
The Camp Store serves food, drinks and entertainment by the sea
Do you have a good hotel recommendation?
My “neighbourhood” hotel would be Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach. which is adjacent to the beach and offers a wonderful pool area and endless ocean views.
Where can you go to hear live music?
Besides The Camp Store, which features live music and entertainment 300+ days a year, Le Papagayo in Carlsbad Village has a cool setup with a big emphasis on providing an experience beyond the menu and drinks.
What’s something that would surprise a visitor?
Make sure you catch a sunset overlooking the ocean. We have a sneaky number of green flashes and it’s always a treat to hear the ‘oohs and aahs’ of people seeing one for their first time.
Make sure to watch for the green flash at sunset, says Marcotti
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Be Seeing You: In Carlsbad, California
Good to Know: Warm summers, mild winters and year-round sunshine = holiday magic
WOW! Factor: The city was named after a 19th century spa in the former Czech Republic known as Karlsbad
Tip: Park in the Village, grab some food to go, and venture down to the beach.
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Plan a trip at www.visitcarlsbad.com
Find more travel inspiration at BeSeeingYou
Do you have some travel tips to share for your home town or do you know someone who does? Reach out to editor@beseeingyou.world
