Book on our site
for up to 10% off
than to Booking.com!
Check rooms and rates
From109US$ /night
Check-in
11Dec2025Select date
Check-out
12Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Details

850 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, California, United States, 92011
-
Close to the beach
Perfect
7.5
7.2
/10
3.3
/5

Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel - A Garden Courtyard Property with Heated Pool Near Premium Outlets

Located across from Carlsbad Premium Outlets and The Flower Fields, this 3-star Carlsbad hotel features 145 rooms arranged across six buildings. The property includes garden courtyards, gazebos, and a heated outdoor pool with spa. Each guest room comes with a private balcony or patio, mini-refrigerator, LCD HDTV, and WiFi access. Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel accommodates pets up to 50 pounds for a fee of USD 75 per stay. A business center, cardio room, and snack pantry serve guests' practical needs. The property provides a complimentary shuttle to LEGOLAND California, Carlsbad Village, and Tamarack Beach. Positioned 1 mile from Sea Life Aquarium and 2 miles from Carlsbad State Beach, the hotel sits 3 miles from McClellan-Palomar Airport.

Pros

Free shuttle service to local attractions including LEGOLAND and beaches

Pet-friendly rooms available for dogs up to 50 pounds

Garden courtyards with gazebos provide outdoor relaxation spaces

Year-round heated pool and spa

Cons

2 miles distance to Carlsbad State Beach

Cash payments not accepted

“The Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel strikes me as a practical choice for families drawn to the area's attractions. I imagine the garden courtyards offer a serene respite, while perks like the Legoland shuttle add definite value. It seems a reliable base for those prioritizing convenience and access to local destinations.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Hotelsdowntown
View all

Select room type

Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive 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
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Check Availability & Prices

Find the best rates for your travel dates now!

Facilities

Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Paid Wi-Fi
  • 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
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel, the Windmill Food Hall offers a delightful culinary experience featuring an eclectic mix of American, Korean, Mexican, and more. This inviting venue combines a family-friendly atmosphere with modern touches, making it perfect for travelers in search of diverse, satisfying meals throughout the day.
Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel Restaurant photo

Windmill Food Hall

American, Korean, Mexican, Pizza, Seafood, Sushi, Thai, Local, Asian
Ambiance
Family-friendly, modern setting perfect for gatherings and casual dining.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a range of options from fresh sushi to hearty Mexican tacos and gluten-free vegetarian selections, catering to a wide array of dietary preferences. The venue is ideal for everything from breakfast to late-night cocktails, ensuring guests have a satisfying dining experience all day long.
Reservation
Yes
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
Explore Carlsbad
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
9 minutes' walk
Vibrant seasonal blooms set against the backdrop of rolling hills; July features a Festival with live music and tours.
Legoland Theme Park
10 minutes' walk
Family-friendly park with interactive rides and attractions; perfect for children and Lego enthusiasts of all ages.
Museum of Making Music
Museum of Making Music
5 minutes' drive
Interactive exhibits showcasing the history of music-making; hosts concerts and educational workshops for all ages.
Carlsbad Village
Carlsbad Village
10 minutes' drive
Charming coastal village featuring shops, eateries, and beach access; ideal for leisurely strolls and local dining.
South Ponto Beach
10 minutes' drive
Relaxed surf spot with gorgeous sunset views; perfect for swimming, beach games, and dolphin watching.
Batiquitos Lagoon
10 minutes' drive
Scenic ecological reserve with walking trails; great for birdwatching and peaceful nature walks.
Carlsbad State Beach
10 minutes' drive
Popular beach area for swimming and surfing; lifeguards on duty ensure safety for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Calavera Hills Community Park
15 minutes' drive
Community park with hiking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds; perfect for an active day outdoors.
Blaze
Blaze
9 minutes' walk
Casual eatery specializing in artisanal pizzas; fresh ingredients and customizable options, ideal for families.
San Sai
San Sai
11 minutes' walk
Japanese cuisine with sushi and teriyaki; inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed dinner or takeout.
In-N-Out Burger
In-N-Out Burger
15 minutes' walk
Beloved fast-food chain known for fresh burgers and fries; a must-try for casual and quick dining.
Panda Express
Panda Express
10 minutes' walk
Fast-casual Chinese restaurant offering signature wok-fired dishes; family-friendly and quick service.
Carlsbad Village Theatre
10 minutes' drive
Intimate venue hosting live performances and movies; offers a variety of events appealing to all ages.
Legoland Theatre
10 minutes' walk
Live shows and entertainment themed around Lego; fun for families and kids, featuring popular characters.
The Compass at Carlsbad
10 minutes' drive
Modern bar with a relaxed vibe; serves craft cocktails and hosts regular events for a lively night out.
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 1 review
7.5
7.5/10 based on 1219 reviews
Frank
United States, November  2024
6.0/10

The hotel has a great location close to the outlets and Lego Land, which is a big plus for family travelers. However, the rooms felt cramped for five people and had a musty smell upon check-in. I encountered some inconsistency with the service, as the shuttle took a long time to arrive and didn't seem well-monitored. Overall, while it offers some good amenities, the stay could definitely be improved with better room conditions and more attentive service.

Rooms
5.0
The room was cramped and had a musty smell, which made it less comfortable for our family of five.
Service
5.0
Although some staff were helpful, there were moments of rudeness and lack of knowledge about hotel accommodations, which made the overall experience frustrating.
Location
9.0
The hotel is ideally located close to the shopping outlets and Lego Land, making it convenient for families visiting those attractions.
Dining
Facilities
6.0
The facilities include a decent pool, but the overall condition could use some attention to detail.
Unlock Exclusive Early Booking Rates
Plan ahead and get special discounts now!
Check Rates
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 for Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel from LEGOLAND California Resort?
The hotel is 3 km from LEGOLAND California Resort.
Is there 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 are the facilities available at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, heated pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, business center, and snack bar.
What room amenities do guests find at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Rooms include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, refrigerator, private balcony or patio, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Are there any nearby restaurants to Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Nearby restaurants include King's Fish House (0.5 km), P.F. Chang's (0.5 km), and Miguel's Cocina (1 km).
What outdoor activities can guests enjoy while staying at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Guests can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding in the surrounding area.
What entertainment options are available for children at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
The hotel offers family suites accommodating up to 8 guests and is close to attractions like LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE Aquarium.
Is there a business center at Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel?
Yes, there is a business center equipped with computers and workspaces.
How close is Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel to Carlsbad Premium Outlet Mall?
The outlet mall is located just 0.3 km away from the hotel.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
11Dec2025Select date
Check-out
12Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Need more options?
Check Top hotels near Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel
Marbrisa Carlsbad Resort Swimming Pool photo
Mobile-only price

Marbrisa Carlsbad Resort

9.1
Perfect54 reviews
1234m from property
USD 405USD 364
per night
Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa Room photo
Mobile-only price

Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa

7.5
Very good63 reviews
1258m from property
USD 225USD 202
per night
Studio 6 Carlsbad Ca Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

Studio 6 Carlsbad Ca

5.0
Guest rating350 reviews
1332m from property
USD 112USD 100
per night