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From109US$ /night
Check-in
20Dec2025Select date
Check-out
21Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About Resort

850 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, California, United States, 92011
-
Near The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Very good
7.5
7.2
/10
3.3
/5

Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel, a family-friendly 3-star hotel, features a free-form outdoor heated pool and garden courtyards framed by Southern California's sky. With 146 guest rooms offering views of the pool or gardens, this hotel provides convenient access to Carlsbad Premium Outlets and LEGOLAND California.

Rooms & Amenities

Each guest room at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel is equipped with a private balcony or patio, mini refrigerator, ample desk space, and an LCD HDTV. Accommodations are arranged in six buildings surrounded by tranquil garden courtyards and gazebos, enhancing the comfort of guests.

Dining & Leisure

The Windmill Food Hall, located adjacent to the hotel, offers a variety of dining options from coffee and desserts to tacos and burgers, making it an easy choice for satisfying diverse tastes. Guests can also enjoy the hotel's outdoor heated pool and spa nestled in serene courtyards.

Services & Local Area

Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service to nearby LEGOLAND California and the beach. The hotel is situated just 2.5 miles from the Batiquitos Lagoon and 1 miles from the Museum of Making Music, making it accessible to several local attractions.

Business & Services

The hotel includes a well-equipped business center and complimentary high-speed wireless Internet, ensuring guests stay connected. A friendly Front Desk team is available to assist with local recommendations and assistance throughout your stay.

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the flower fields at the Carlsbad Flower Fields in spring.
  • Savor a delicious breakfast burrito at The Daily News Cafe downtown.
  • Catch stunning ocean views at the Carlsbad State Beach before sunset.
  • Explore the art at the Museum of Making Music, just a short drive away.
  • Visit the historic Carlsbad Village to find unique shops and eateries.
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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
King Room Disability Access
2 persons
33 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
King Room
2 persons
33 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Queen Room Pool View
2 persons
33 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Deluxe Double Room Balcony
2 persons
33 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Paid Wi-Fi
  • On-site car park
  • Handicap parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Luggage storage
  • Allergy-free rooms
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Shops/Commercial services

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Heated swimming pool
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Garden area
  • Jacuzzi
  • Pool with view

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel, dining options at Windmill Food Hall invite guests to explore a delightful array of culinary influences. From the vibrant flavors of Korean and Mexican dishes to fresh local seafood and classic American fare, there's something to please every palate in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel Restaurant photo

Windmill Food Hall

American, Korean, Mexican, Sushi, Seafood, Thai, Local, Asian
Ambiance
Modern and family-friendly setting that fosters a relaxed and inviting vibe, perfect for both casual meals and lively gatherings.
Key Offerings
Discover a range of meal types including vegetarian and gluten-free options, complemented by lively brunches and dinner selections that highlight local and seasonal ingredients.
Reservation
Not required.
Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktail hour; hours may vary.

Location

850 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, California, United States, 92011
Map view
850 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, California, United States, 92011
Nearby
Windmill Banquet and Catering
380 m
Restaurants
Blaze
680 m
5620 Paseo Del Norte Carlsbad Premium Outlets
Panda Express
780 m
5630 Paseo Del Norte
Wetzel's Pretzels
970 m
5620 Paseo Del Norte C#122
San Sai
860 m
5600 Paseo Del Norte Ste 115A
In-N-Out Burger
1.2 km
5950 Avenida Encinas
Taco Bell
590 m
6017 Paseo Del Norte
Carl's Jr
670 m
925 Palomar Airport Rd
Subway
570 m
5620 Paseo Del Norte Ste 127
Corner Bakery Cafe
750 m
5617 Paseo Del Norte Ste 110
Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
760 m
5617 Paseo Del Norte
Explore Carlsbad
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
9 minutes walking
A stunning 50-acre flower garden featuring vibrant ranunculus, open mid-March through early May for seasonal blooms.
Legoland Theme Park
10 minutes walking
Family-friendly amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions geared toward children ages 2-12, ideal for fun-filled days.
Museum of Making Music
Museum of Making Music
5 minutes driving
Celebrates the history of musical instruments and innovation, offering interactive exhibits and guided tours for all ages.
Carlsbad Village
Carlsbad Village
10 minutes driving
Charming coastal community with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, perfect for leisurely strolls and local dining.
Water Sports at South Ponto Beach
10 minutes driving
Beach activities like surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. Rentals available nearby for a fun-filled day on the water.
Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Walks
10 minutes driving
Scenic nature reserve with walking trails and birdwatching opportunities for tranquility seekers and nature lovers.
Legoland Driving School
10 minutes walking
Kids can experience driving on a mini road course, combining fun education and excitement in a safe environment.
Blaze Pizza
9 minutes walking
Casual eatery offering custom-built pizzas with fresh ingredients, perfect for quick meals with a vibrant atmosphere.
San Sai Japanese Grill
11 minutes walking
Tempting Japanese dishes, including sushi and teriyaki, served in a casual environment, ideal for sushi lovers.
Panda Express
Panda Express
10 minutes walking
Fast-casual chain specializing in American Chinese cuisine, perfect for a quick bite with family-friendly options.
Carlsbad Village Theatre
10 minutes driving
Local theater showcasing films and live performances, featuring family-friendly screenings and events throughout the year.
The Curbside Bar
10 minutes driving
Lively bar with a casual vibe, known for its live music and themed nights, great for socializing and evening fun.
Getting around
City Centre
Carlsbad24 min  ·  2.0 km
Airports
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)8 min  ·  4.8 km
San Diego International Airport (SAN)78 min  ·  51.4 km
Train
Coaster Carlsbad Poinsettia Station20 min  ·  1.6 km
Coaster Carlsbad Village Station8 min  ·  5.1 km
Bus
Bus stop3 min  ·  200 m

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
7.5
7.5/10 based on 1213 reviews
Nicholas
United Kingdom, March  2025
7.0/10

I recently stayed at this hotel and had a mixed experience. While the staff was genuinely warm and accommodating, the rooms left much to be desired with cleanliness issues and an overall outdated feel. The price was reasonable considering the location, but the condition of the facilities was a notable concern. If you're looking for a quick getaway, it might work, but I'd suggest weighing your options carefully.

Rooms
5.0
The rooms were quite outdated and had some cleanliness issues, like a hole in the screen door, a stained curtain, and not-so-great air conditioning. Also, the constant drain sound from the HVAC made it hard to sleep. With kids in tow, I was worried about spider bites that I found in both rooms.
Service
7.0
The service was not bad overall. The staff tried their best to help, quickly assigning us another room after we reported issues with the first one. However, I did feel the check-in process took a bit long.
Location
9.0
The hotel is in a great location, with easy access to the Carlsbad Outlet Stores and plenty of restaurants. It's perfect for those who want to shop and enjoy meals nearby, plus it's not too far from LEGOLAND.
Dining
5.0
Dining was pretty basic, and I really missed having a proper breakfast option. There wasn't much variety, and it's a shame given the potential this place has for offering more.
Facilities
5.0
The facilities felt neglected, and it was noticeable. The state of repair for the doors and the outdoor areas made me question safety.
Keith
United Kingdom, February  2025
6.0/10

We had a mixed experience at this hotel during our Legoland trip. While there were a few positives, such as clean rooms and an excellent shuttle driver, there were also significant drawbacks. The service was lacking, especially with room cleaning and staff attitude. Overall, it felt overpriced for the quality of service we received.

Rooms
6.0
The rooms were mostly clean but felt a bit tired and in need of updates.
Service
5.0
Service was not ideal; the front desk staff were grumpy and unhelpful, and room cleaning was infrequent.
Location
6.0
The location is decent for visiting Legoland, but not much else.
Dining
5.0
The breakfast options were limited, and it was hard to find a place to sit, especially during peak times.
Facilities
7.0
The hotel had a nice pool area and gardens, but overall felt neglected.
Arthur
United Kingdom, January  2025
6.8/10

The hotel is conveniently located near Legoland, making it great for families visiting the park. While the staff was friendly and the free shuttle was appreciated, the rooms left much to be desired in terms of comfort and maintenance. The breakfast was standard but got crowded quickly. I wouldn't say it lived up to the 'resort' name, especially regarding the pool area.

Rooms
5.0
The rooms were clean but quite outdated, lacking essentials like a coffee table. The bed felt overly firm, and we had issues with the microwave.
Service
7.0
The staff was very friendly and helpful, but the check-in took longer than expected due to unavailability of our room.
Location
9.0
The hotel is close to Legoland and convenient for families, with easy access to shops nearby.
Dining
6.0
Breakfast included a decent variety but was often overcrowded, making it tough to find a place to sit.
Facilities
5.0
The pool area was in poor condition with sharp edges and uncleanliness, and I wouldn't recommend using the jacuzzi.
Liam
United Kingdom, December  2024
6.6/10

The hotel has an ideal location near shopping outlets and restaurants, making it convenient for travelers. However, the rooms feel outdated and could use some significant improvements, especially regarding cleanliness and amenities. While the staff is friendly, the overall experience was marred by issues with the facilities and services provided.

Rooms
5.0
The rooms were outdated and lacked essential amenities like a microwave and lock box. I found some pests in my room, which was disappointing, especially for the price paid.
Service
5.0
The front desk staff was friendly, but I encountered issues with housekeeping trying to enter my room too early despite a late checkout.
Location
9.0
The hotel is perfectly located just across the street from shopping outlets and very close to Legoland, which was great for our trip.
Dining
6.0
The breakfast was decent but very basic. It could definitely use more variety to enhance the experience.
Facilities
5.0
The pool area is not well-maintained, with safety issues and cleanliness concerns. The jacuzzi was in particularly disgusting condition.
Jack
United Kingdom, December  2024
8.0/10

I had a mixed experience at this hotel. On the upside, the friendly staff made our stay feel warm and welcoming, especially the shuttle drivers to Legoland. However, the rooms left much to be desired with stale smells and some maintenance issues; the pool area was particularly disappointing and felt unsafe. The location is quite convenient as it's close to Legoland, but overall, the hotel really feels more like a motel than a resort.

Rooms
5.0
Our rooms smelled of mildew and were quite dated. There were maintenance issues like drawers that wouldn't stay closed and a clogged sink. Not the cleanest either.
Service
9.0
The service provided by the staff was excellent. They were accommodating and friendly, especially a lovely lady at the front desk who was super helpful.
Location
8.0
The hotel is ideally located near Legoland and various dining options, which was convenient for our family trip.
Dining
7.0
The breakfast was basic but adequate, though I preferred the continental style over the restaurant vouchers.
Facilities
5.0
The pool area was not well-maintained; the jacuzzi looked dirty and uninviting, and several safety concerns made it uncomfortable to use.
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site at USD 12 per day.
Internet
is available in for additional charge.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2011
Number of rooms:
15
Former name
Holiday Inn Carlsbad by the Sea
FAQs
About Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 5 km from McClellan-Palomar Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive.
What are some attractions near Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Nearby attractions include LEGOLAND California Resort (3 km) and The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch (0.5 km).
Are there any dining options available at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant, and nearby dining includes King's Fish House (0.5 km) and P.F. Chang's (0.5 km).
What amenities are offered at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
The hotel features an outdoor heated swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a business center.
Is parking available at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Public parking is available on-site for 12 USD per day, and a reservation is not needed.
What room amenities can guests expect at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, a coffee machine, and a private balcony or patio.
Is there a fitness center at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Yes, there is a fitness center available for guests.
How far is Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel from the beach?
The hotel is approximately 2 km from the nearest beach.
What recreational activities does Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel offer?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and golf.

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