Things to Do in the Carlsbad, CA Area (Don’t Forget Your SPF!)

Things to Do in the Carlsbad, CA Area (Don’t Forget Your SPF!)

Carlsbad, California, isn’t just the “Village by the Sea” — it’s also a playground of beaches, hikes, breweries, and sun-drenched adventures that demand one very important thing: sunscreen. Whether you’re a Carlsbad local, hanging out in nearby San Marcos, Encinitas, Del Mar (when in season), or Oceanside, or you’re just here for a little San Diego sunshine, you’ll want to know the best things to do (and how to keep your skin protected while doing them).

Here’s a list of our favorite things to do in Carlsbad and the surrounding San Diego North County area — with a wink, a laugh, and a friendly reminder to stock up on SPF at The Works Skincare in Carlsbad Village. (Text Cheryl at 760-434-5663 and she’ll set you up before your next outing!)

1. Hit the Beaches in Carlsbad (SPF Level: Mandatory)

Carlsbad is basically beach royalty. Tamarack Beach, South Ponto, and Carlsbad State Beach are all packed with surfers, swimmers, and people pretending not to check their email on the sand. The downside? That California sun doesn’t care if you’re local or visiting — you’ll burn if you’re not prepared. Load up on sunscreen from The Works Skincare before you go. Your skin will thank you later.

2. Carlsbad Village Shopping & Dining

Locals know Carlsbad Village is more than tourist boutiques. It’s coffee shops, farm-to-table dining, and the kind of places where you “just came to browse” but end up with three new plants and a ceramic mug you didn’t know you needed. Strolling outdoors all afternoon means your skin is catching rays even when you don’t notice. SPF is your best accessory.

3. The Famous Flower Fields (Springtime)

From March through May, the Carlsbad Flower Fields are a must. Rows of ranunculus in full bloom — perfect for your Instagram feed, terrible if you forgot sunscreen and spend hours squinting at petals. Sunburn + selfies = not the look you’re going for.

4. Hiking in San Marcos & Encinitas

Double Peak in San Marcos, Annie’s Canyon Trail in Encinitas, or Batiquitos Lagoon right here in Carlsbad are perfect for stretching your legs (and convincing your Fitbit you’re athletic). But hiking in Southern California = direct sunlight. You wouldn’t climb without water, so don’t hike without SPF.

5. Surfing & Tide Pools in Oceanside

Whether you’re braving the waves or poking around the tide pools with kids, Oceanside’s beaches are legendary. Just don’t get distracted by starfish and forget that UV rays bounce off the water. Yes, SPF is non-negotiable.

6. Racing at Del Mar - Seasonal

“Where the turf meets the surf” isn’t just a slogan — it’s your chance to enjoy horse racing by the beach. Dress up, place your bets, and remember that a floppy hat isn’t enough sun protection on its own. (SPF > skin regrets.)

7. Legoland California

Yes, technically it’s for kids. But anyone who’s walked 15,000 steps at Legoland in one day knows it’s basically a cardio challenge for adults, too. Endless sun + long lines + water rides = prime conditions for sunburn. Parents, toss sunscreen in your day bag before those little plastic bricks steal your soul.

8. Breweries & Outdoor Patios Everywhere

North County San Diego is a craft beer mecca. Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside — you name it, there’s a patio with tacos and a flight waiting for you. But “just one more IPA” turns into three, and by then you’ve been sitting in the sun for hours. Your skin doesn’t care that it was “accidental.”

9. Carlsbad Lagoon Watersports

Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, jet skis — the lagoon is like Carlsbad’s hidden playground. It’s also where the sun reflects off the water twice as strong. Yes, even your knees need sunscreen.

10. Everyday Errands in San Diego North County

Here’s the sneaky one. Even if you’re just running errands between Carlsbad, Del Mar, and San Marcos, you’re getting hit with sun through your car windows. That’s why locals notice one arm tans darker than the other (hello, driver’s side). SPF isn’t just for “activities” — it’s for daily life here.

Stock Up Locally at The Works Skincare

The San Diego sun isn’t going anywhere, and neither is your to-do list of fun things in Carlsbad, Oceanside, Del Mar, San Marcos, and Encinitas. Protect your skin before the adventure starts.

📍Call to schedule a pickup or a facial, wax or makeup appointment at The Works Skincare in Carlsbad Village or text the spa directly at 760-434-5663. Cheryl will hook you up with sunscreen, skincare, and all the essentials to keep your glow healthy, not fried.

Because the only thing worse than missing out on Carlsbad fun… is doing it with a sunburn.