Amazing Flower Fields Spring Opening Coming Soon

Each spring, the blooming of dozens of acres of vibrant, colorful Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers at Carlsbad Ranch in San Diego marks the start of the season.
Jess Tucker
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Amazing Flower Fields Spring Opening
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All About the 2024 Flower Fields Spring Opening in Carlsbad, San Diego

Close up of Flowers at the Flower FieldsParks Overlooking the Ocean in Carlsbad

See Southern California’s most famous springtime ritual when you visit the blooming flower field at Carlsbad Ranch in Carlsbad, San Diego.

The fields reopen on March 1, 2024, and remain open throughout the bloom cycle of the flowers. Don’t wait to visit, as by mid-May, the fields will close again.

Like the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park, these flowers only bloom for a limited time during the spring, so you’ll want to hurry over. Check the website to see the current bloom status of the flower field so you can plan your trip.

Entrance to Legoland Ca
Entrance to Legoland Ca

More Exiting Things to Do in Carlsbad

Looking to visit both flower-themed attractions plus plenty of other fun spots around the city?

The Go City San Diego pass will get you discounted admission to attractions including the Japanese Friendship Garden and other Carlsbad favorites like LEGOLAND California and the Museum of Making Music.

Use our discount code, GVSD5OFF, for greater savings!

Local Tips
Giant Tecolote Ranunculus Bloom
If you’re visiting to see these amazing flowers in full bloom, you’ll have a window of about 6-8 weeks, after which the flowers will reach the end of their life cycle. It’s best to come early so you don’t risk missing out!

Attractions & More at the Flower Fields

Come for the flowers, stay for the fun! See what attractions are open at Carlsbad Ranch.

Beautiful Flowers with a Tractor at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad
Beautiful Flowers with a Tractor at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad

Types of Flowers

The main attraction is the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that span 55 acres. These rare flowers bloom in gorgeous shades of red, pink, orange, and yellow.

Alongside the flower fields, other types of flowers you can see at Carlsbad Ranch include the Historic Poinsettia Display; an American Flag of Flowers made entirely of red, white, and blue peonies; and the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse.

Other Attractions at the Ranch

Carlsbad Ranch offers a wagon tour of the field. Sit back as you’re towed by a tractor and snap stunning photos.

The ranch also houses multiple themed gardens. These include the Illusion Garden, which has topiaries and displays that play with optical illusions, and the Butterfly Garden, where you can sit in a gazebo surrounded by blooming flowers and butterfly sculptures.

The ranch really thought about families in 2024 as well! Kids can walk through the sweet pea maze, or head over to the Carlsbad Mining Company’s exhibit to sift for rare gems. There’s also a small Santa-themed playground, which is just as fun for kids no matter the season.

Perch View at Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas
Perch View at Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas

Where to Book Your Hotel

When visiting Carlsbad Ranch, staying at a nearby hotel can cut down on travel time and help you beat the crowds. A nearby hotel I love is the Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas.

With incredible views of the coastline and a classy atmosphere, this adult-centric hotel is a pocket of paradise in Encinitas.

Save on the Go City Pass!
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Meet over 5,000 fish & sea animals at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. The All-Inclusive Go City Pass includes access to marine exhibits, interactive displays and hands-on experiences, like touching a shark!
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Local Tips
Who can use a Go City San Diego pass?

Adults and children (ages 3 to 12) can use the Go City San Diego pass – All-Inclusive or Explorer pass – to visit the area’s top attractions and activities.

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Snacks, Drinks, and Other Dining Options

Once you’ve worked up an appetite strolling through the fields, grab a bite to eat. There are many options conveniently located inside Carlsbad Ranch, whether you’re looking for a full meal or a sweet snack.

Right next to the ranch’s picnic area, you’ll find two food trucks. One is a pizza trolley, while the other serves up tacos.

If you’re craving a sweet treat, stop by Sweet Swirls Ice Cream, or head to the Strawberry Shack for shakes and Dole whip. There are also vendors handing out kettle corn and cotton candy.

Thirsty? Quench your thirst at The Lemonade Stand with fresh-squeezed lemonade, or grab a coffee or tea at Kettle Kernels.

Popular Hotels
Popular Hotels
Price
Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad
$143
Learn More
LEGOLAND California Resort
$249
Learn More
Legoland Castle Hotel
$339
Learn More
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach
$117
Learn More

Helpful Tips When Planning Your Visit

Tickets, parking, directions and more, below are a few important details to consider as you plan your trip.

How to Buy Tickets

Tickets must be purchased in advance online. Prices are:

  • Adult: $23
  • Senior (60+)/Military: $21
  • Children (3-10): $14

Children under 3 may visit for free.

Where to Park

Parking is available right outside the ranch, near the Armstrong Garden Center. Carlsbad Ranch has its own private parking lot, and there is no additional charge.

Back of the Electric Shuttle - PB Beach Bug
Back of the Electric Shuttle - PB Beach Bug

Directions for Carlsbad Ranch

The easiest way to reach Carlsbad Ranch is by following I-5 to its intersection with Palomar Airport Road. From exit 47, the ranch is just half a mile off the highway.

If you’d rather leave the car at home, consider using public transit. San Diego’s buses, trolleys, and rideshare services make getting around easy.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

If you’re coming to see the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers in full bloom, you’ll have a window of about 6-8 weeks, after which the flowers will reach the end of their life cycle. It’s best to come early so you don’t risk missing out!

If you’re hoping to beat the crowds, avoid attending on weekend afternoons. Instead, plan to visit on a weekday, or arrive early!

Featured Hotel
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
Aerial View at Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas
Beachfront
Beachfront
Families
Families
Luxury
Luxury
4 Stars4 Stars4 Stars4 Stars
The Alila Marea Beach Resort offers some of the most stunning ocean views in the San Diego area, as well as luxurious amenities for a relaxing vacation.
Prices Starting at $683
Check Availability

Popular Activities

Carlsbad Local Food Tour
Carlsbad Local Food Tour
$70 per person
Buy Now
Champagne Brunch Cruise
Champagne Brunch Cruise
$114 per person
Buy Now
LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket
LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket
$127 per person
Learn More
Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden
Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden
Discounts Available
Learn More
Looking to Save on Tickets?
Save on Tickets
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Stay Nearby

Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad
Near Legoland
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad
from $143 / night
View Hotel
LEGOLAND California Resort
Near Legoland
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
LEGOLAND California Resort
from $249 / night
View Hotel
Legoland Castle Hotel
Near Legoland
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
Legoland Castle Hotel
from $339 / night
View Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach
Family Friendly
3 Star Rating3 Star Rating3 Star Rating
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach
from $117 / night
View Hotel
Show more San Diego Hotels >>
Tours & Adventures
Carlsbad Local Food Tour
Carlsbad Local Food Tour
$70 per person
Buy Now
Champagne Brunch Cruise
Champagne Brunch Cruise
$114 per person
Buy Now
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