Looking to spice it up on your vacation to the Ocean Palms? Well, for starters you’ve picked the most romantic hotel in Carlsbad, so you’re off to a good start. While you’re at the Ocean Palms, take advantage of the Hawaiian-like tropical grounds, relaxing pool area with lounge chairs, fire pits, and gazebo lounge. Many of our guests will pick up a bottle (or two) of wine or a local craft beer and enjoy these hotel amenities with a drink in hand. What a way to relax and set the romantic mood! Now onto things to do around town to make it even more romantic! At the Ocean Palms, we want you to experience our resort to its fullest with your significant other! Here is our Top 5 list of romantic things to do in Carlsbad. We’ve made a point to include some free activities to fit your budget. Still want more suggestions on things to do or can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to contact us and let us know what would make your vacation to Carlsbad and the Ocean Palms unforgettable, and we will gladly provide you with suggestions on things to do on your trip!
Top 5 Romantic Things to do in Carlsbad
1. Beach
Miles from Ocean Palms: Steps away!
Time of Year: Year Round
Cost: Free!
Carlsbad is known for its small beach town feel with a sprinkle of charm. Our clean and relaxing beaches are covered in soft white sand and with a 7.5 mile stretch, there’s room for you and your loved one to have the perfect beach day experience. The Ocean Palms is conveniently located just steps away, provides complimentary beach towels, boogie boards, surf boards, beach chairs, and umbrellas (subject to availability of course). Whether you want a bit of exercise with a sunset stroll with your loved one, or some exciting water adventures, or simply a picturesque landscape to relax, nothing beats the free beach! Oh, did we mention Ocean Palms is only steps away with a new beach access right in front of the hotel? Yup! We’ve got you covered!
2. Cruise the Village
Miles from Ocean Palms: Steps away (we’re located in the Village)
Time of Year: Year Round
Cost: Free
Sometimes it’s best to not have any plans and just cruise! The Carlsbad Village is great for that AND Ocean Palms is located in the heart of the Village! So put on some comfy shoes (or rent beach cruisers nearby) and go for an easy walk (or ride) through the village. There’s a little bit of everything for you to enjoy. There’s quaint shops, delicious restaurants, a winery, irish pub, coffee shops, chocolate shop, ice cream, art galleries, spas, and parks. Or better yet, visit the Farmer’s Market which is every Wednesday starting at 3pm!
A local tip, get some ice cream, coffee, or a burrito in the village, and head down to the beach for an ocean view!
3. Batiquitos Lagoon
Miles from Ocean Palms: 6 miles
Time of Year: Year Round
Cost: Free!
This is our favorite lagoon out of all the lagoons in Carlsbad. This lagoon has the ideal “romantic nature walk” written all over it! With an easy dirt trail, take a walk alongside the beautiful lagoon with the glistening water, a faint sound of native birds in the trees and marsh, with the smell of floral folliage and salt in the air. Along the entire trail, there are covered benches perfectly situated with a gorgeous view to enjoy. Bring your walking shoes and a hand in yours to take a romantic trek! What’s also nice about this nature walk is that even though it feels like you are miles and miles away, you’re so close to everything! Need a glass of wine while you’re at it?
A local secret is the Argyle Steakhouse is connected on the trail (about halfway on the trail) and you can stop in for a cocktail or a little bite to eat!
4. Couple’s Massage
Miles from Ocean Palms: 2 blocks
Time of Year: Year Round
Cost: Varies
When you’re on a romantic vacation, one of the first things that comes to mind, is a couple’s massage! Luckily, the Ocean Palms is located next to several spas within the village that all offer massage services! One of our favorites is the Carlsbad Mineral Spa located just up the street!
5. Romantic Meal
Miles from Ocean Palms: 1 block
Time of Year: Year Round
Cost: Varies on Restaurant
So we mentioned the great outdoors, now it’s time to appeal to the senses with your taste buds! There are several local restaurants in or near the village that will be a great addition to your romantic stay. Carlsbad is known for its Italian restaurants, and there’s several to choose from. There are also some restaurants that provide an ocean view. Our top suggestions for a romantic meal are Paon, Vigilucci’s, Blue Ocean Sushi, and Bluewater Grille.
Another romantic option for meals if making a delicious meal in the comfort of your hotel room! All of our hotel rooms include a fully equipped kitchen and we also have BBQs located throughout the property. So whether you want to cozy up in your room with a homemade meal or take it outdoors to the outdoor patio furniture or fire pit tables for a tropical scenery.
