Many of Carlsbad’s beaches are known for being great surfing spots, and South Carlsbad State Beach is no exception. It’s a little off the beaten path, but between the beach itself and its attached campground, there’s a lot that I love.
I’m a surfer myself and a huge fan of all of San Diego’s beaches! I recently took my family to South Carlsbad State Beach for a few nights of camping so I’m personally familiar with this beach.
Unlike some of San Diego’s best beaches for sunbathing, most of the beach is on the narrow side, though there are wider and sandier parts. There’s still enough space to set up some chairs and towels though.
When I visited with my family for our night of family camping, we were there to see the high tide come in, when parts of the beach by the campgrounds were almost entirely swallowed up by the ocean.
While there aren’t any rules against it, South Carlsbad State Beach isn’t the best swimming beach either. The ocean floor just off the shoreline is mostly sandy, but there are little rocks that get kicked up by the waves.
Tent with a View at South Carlsbad State Beach Campground
Camping by the Beach
Don’t make the mistake of writing this beach off as just another of San Diego’s more than 75 beautiful beaches!
When it comes to surfing beaches that also offer camping by the ocean, South Carlsbad Beach is among the best, not just within Carlsbad but throughout San Diego!
Thanks to San Diego’s warm climate and sunny weather, the campground is open all year. It’s set a little ways back from the beach up by the bluffs, which helps protect campers from winds and riding tides without compromising on the incredible view of the Pacific Ocean at sunset.
Most of the beach’s visitors are drawn in by the camping, but the wave conditions attract surfers too. Don’t forget to grab a Go City San Diego pass using our discount code GVSD5OFF for additional savings when renting a surfboard or other beach gear!
More Waves at South Carlsbad State Beach
Surrounding Beaches
South Carlsbad State Beach spans about 5 miles. It sits right between North Ponto and South Ponto Beach on Carlsbad’s coastline.
A little further north, you’ll find Carlsbad State Beach and the surf breaks of Terramar Beach.
The Cliffs and Surf at South Carlsbad State Beach
What’s Nearby: Attractions and Things to Do
While a day or two or even a week at the beach can make for a fantastic family vacation, staycation or weekend getaway, I know that it’s good to have some nearby options for fun and entertaining things to do.
Heading north from South Carlsbad State Beach, the attractions nearby are especially great for families. You’ll have great shopping options like the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, one of San Diego’s best malls, or treat the kids to a day at LEGOLAND California, which is part of the All-inclusive Go City San Diego pass.
There’s also the flower fields at Carlsbad Ranch in the spring, plus some great golf courses like The Crossings at Carlsbad.
The Cliffs and the Beach at South Carlsbad State Beach
My Favorite Places to Stay Near the Beach
I love a good night of camping but I also understand that it’s not for everyone. If you’d rather stay in a Carlsbad hotel than the campsite, it’s helpful to know the best places to stay near the beach!
Booking a hotel near the beach is a great way to arrive early and beat the crowds. While there are lots of excellent hotels by LEGOLAND, if you’re looking for something beachside, one of the best is Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa.
The walk to the beach is just a short half mile trek, and once you’ve had your fill, you can kick back at the hotel’s pool deck and enjoy views of the sea.