Carlsbad, California is a picturesque coastal town with miles of pristine beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and perfect waves for surfing. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Carlsbad is the perfect destination for beachgoers looking to unwind, relax, and soak up some sun. But to fully enjoy all that Carlsbad’s beaches have to offer, having the right beach gear is essential. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about renting beach gear in Carlsbad, from the best rental companies to the most essential gear you’ll need for a perfect day on the beach. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to hit the sand!

No matter where you’re at in Carlsbad, we will always come to you. Carlsbad is one of our most popular delivery areas. Carlsbad is home to more than 115,000 people with visitors coming each year to enjoy the endless sunshine, unbeatable sunsets, food, and entertainment.

Travelers ask us all of the time about what it’s like in Carlsbad. We’re going to break this blog into 3 different areas of the Carlsbad Coastline: Carlsbad Village/Tamarack State Beach, North Ponto State Beach, and South Ponto State Beach along with our top six most important criteria when visiting.

Let’s start exploring!

Carlsbad Village

How did we rate it?

Sand: Soft                              

Bathrooms – There are no bathroom facilities in this area, there are portapotties with hand washing stations. There are plenty of walkable shops and Starbucks that will also allow you to use their bathrooms.                 

Lifeguards – Yes, on duty.                            

Distance to water – once you’re on the beach, the distance from the sand to the ocean is close. 

Parking: There is free street parking, but some streets are more crowded than others, the Village also has free parking but is a far walk to the beach. Keep in mind, there are stairs leading down the beach.

Ambiance: This north side of Carlsbad Beach feels like you’re on a private beach. You’re surrounded by large gorgeous homes (that wish could be yours someday). This area is great for families, small gatherings, and quick trips to the beach.

Restaurants within walking distance: 

• 264 Fresco 
• Knockout Burgers
• Knockout Pizza  
• Norte Mexican Food & Cocktail 
• Tio Ernie’s Tortilla Mia 
• Jay’s Gourmet 
• Daily News Cafe 
• Park 101 
• Cafe Elysa 
• Gonzo 
• The Compass 

Places to stay: 

• Ocean Palms Beach Resort 
• Beach Terrace 
• Best Western Inn 
• Ocean Villas 
• Beachwalk Villas

Carlsbad Village Dr.  

Streets that are close to the beach: Ocean St, Pacific Ave, Cypress Ave, Beech Ave, Grand Ave, and Carlsbad Village Dr. 

The City of Carlsbad governs this part of the beach and its surrounded by shops, restaurants, bars, with a European downtown feel. It’s quant and people love to walk, shop, dine, and relax in Downtown Carlsbad. 

Looking for ice cream? Check out Handles, it’s a MUST!  

Pine Ave

The beach between Pine Ave. through South Ponto Beach is governed by California State Parks. There is plenty to do including taking advantage of their Volleyball nets, and beach games, enjoy the waves, and sometimes you can catch a glimpse of dolphins passing by! 

Sand – Soft                             

Bathrooms – There is a large restroom facility down the hill at Pine Ave.                            

Lifeguards – Yes 

Distance – The water is close to the entrance of the sand.                          

Parking: There is a small parking lot that is free next to Offshore Suf Shop, otherwise there is free street parking.   

Ambiance: Great for groups, large and small, sunsets, and taking long walks, especially on the Sea Wall. 

Restaurants within walking distance: 

• Dini’s Bistro 

Places to stay: 

• Best Western 
• Tamarack Beach Resort 
• Pelican Cove Inn 

Tamarack State Beach 

Tamarack Beach is one of Carlsbad most popular beaches as it has a paid parking lot that is close to the shore, and its great for young kids, families, and chilling on the beach. Tamarack paid parking area and beach does get crowded as its a small piece of beach but its quant, convenient, and has an island feel. 

Sand – soft 

Bathrooms – Yes, within walking distance.                           

Lifeguards – Yes                                

Distance – Close from sand to water             

Parking: Off of Tamarack Ave there is a paid parking lot $20 per day. There is street parking available as well. 

Ambiance: Tamarack is the perfect place for large groups, corporate events, small and large parties. 

Between Tamarack Ave and Cannon Rd. offers beach goers a lot of fun opportunities including Volleyball, surfing, Boogie Boarding, Skim Boarding, and much more! Cannon Park has basketball hoops, a large grassy area for events, and a small playground. 

Restaurants within walking distance: 

• Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse 

Places to stay: Vacation Rentals Galore! 

South Carlsbad 

North Ponto State Beach 

North Ponto State Beach is a small quant beach ran by State Parks. South Carlsbad State Beach, also known as North Ponto State Beach, is a stunning stretch of coastline located in northern San Diego County, California. With its crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and picturesque cliffs, this beach is a popular destination for surfers, sunbathers, and families looking to enjoy a day by the sea. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs that provide a sense of seclusion and privacy as there are no surrounding restaurants besides a nearby campground. 

Check out our ratings for South Carlsbad North Ponto State Beach 

Sand – very rocky in the winter, large grainy. Little to no beach.                 

Bathrooms – Yes.                   

Lifeguards – Yes, tower 28                            

Distance – Short walk from the parking lot to the sand and ocean.                          

Parking: Street parking available and its FREE!       

Ambiance: Not great for long walks on the beach. 

South Carlsbad State Beach South Ponto 

South Ponto Beach, also known as South Carlsbad State Beach, is a stunning stretch of coastline located in northern San Diego County, California. With its long and wide sandy beach, clear blue waters, and picturesque cliffs, South Ponto is a popular destination for surfers, swimmers, sunbathers, and families looking to enjoy a day by the sea. The beach is surrounded by natural beauty and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, while the nearby attractions such as the Carlsbad Premium Outlets and Legoland make it a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at all the things that make South Ponto Beach a must-visit destination in California.