Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside village ideally located 30 miles north of San Diego. Here you will find irresistible sandy beaches, three unique lagoons, two luxurious resorts and more than two dozen fine hotels. Visitors love walking around the “village center” that offers outstanding shopping and dozens of great restaurants for every taste and pocketbook. There is a never-ending array of things to do in Carlsbad – this report shares six things every outdoor-loving visitor MUST do.

1. The Flower Fields are one of Carlsbad’s most beloved and famous traditions. Fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers are in a full bloom for six or seven weeks each year – from early March through early May. The yearly color burst of red, orange, yellow, green and purple blossoms is part of Carlsbad’s heritage – and nature’s method of announcing the official arrival of spring. Telephone: (760) 431-0352.

2. Batiquitos Lagoon is a coastal salt marsh with tidal mud flats – one of the few remaining wetlands in California. Many native plants and more than 185 species of birds can be seen at the lagoon. The lagoon is a destination for nature lovers of all types – bird watchers, artists, joggers, naturalists, hikers and plant lovers love the three miles of trails – trails renown as quiet places for exercise, meditation or simply contemplation. Free naturalist-led tours are offered some weekdays and most weekends.

3. Legoland is a world famous family attraction. It’s fun, not overly-expensive and actually quite pleasant – for a theme park. If you’ve got a big day planned with the kids, we recommend getting there early. Head straight to the popular Indiana Jones and Land of Adventure rides, then the Test Track roller coaster. Lines can get long at the most popular attractions the day goes on, but are short first thing in the morning, and are always shorter than Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm.

4. Downtown Carlsbad has the charm of a European village. Its wide tree-lined streets and sidewalks make it a great place for walking and exploring. Visitors will find cute boutiques, rare antique shops, unusual gift stores, delightful restaurants and cafes, picturesque hotels, stunning art galleries, quaint pubs and architecturally significant historic homes. A well-known landmark is the Alt Karlsbad House, site of the first mineral water spa in Carlsbad, built in the 1880s.

5. Carlsbad Village offers many dining choices from inexpensive cafes to upscale fine dining. Jay’s Gourmet is a favorite, as is Dini’s by the Sea (awesome views of the Pacific Ocean). Vigilucci’s (Italian) also enjoys ocean views. If you like Mexican, Fidel’s Norte is a fiesta for all the senses. Tucked away behind the Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort, Fidel’s has been a local favorite for 30 years.

6. Agua Hedionda Lagoon and its surrounding wetland is an Ecological Reserve under the care of the California Department of Fish and Game. The 3,800 sq. ft. Discovery Center celebrated its Grand Opening on Earth Day, April 22, 2006 and showcases exhibits portraying the wetlands, including the native indians that once inhabited the lagoon. Visitors enjoy spectacular views overlooking the lagoon below and Pacific Ocean. Under the direction of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation, the Discovery Center’s mission is to promote the environmental protection of the lagoon. Friendly docents are present to answer question and guide you through the exhibit.

If you’re visiting Carlsbad or other surrounding communities in North County San Diego, here are some links to hotels and bed and breakfasts: Carlsbad Hotels, Carlsbad B&B and Del Mar California Hotels.