South Carlsbad State Beach
Tom H.
Reviewed Dec. 14, 2019

Peaceful and still close to cool places

The good. 

Pick a spot - $75 gets you on the bluff with hookups $50 gets you on the bluff but no hookups $35 gets you on the other side Trash, recycling, and sewage disposal ($10) nearby. Water quality at the hookup sites smell fresh.

The not as good. 

Although ocean bluff spots cost you the elevation angle of the site lot or vegetation may impede or restrict your view. There’s also a metal fence. Unlike San Elijo State Park to the south most of the ocean sites do have an actual ocean view.

The bathrooms Bring soap. No dispensers near the sinks. Toilets are cleaned but not necessarily clean.

Noise. Far enough away from the train tracks to not have train noise issues but alongside US101 so there may be road noise.

Stuff to know- 

If you’re towing a vehicle it has to be literally towed onto the property. Don’t disconnect and go get groceries prior to entering or you’ll have to pay $15 a night for the vehicle once you enter (Or take your rig back out back out and tow it in)

Recommendations - 

There is a train station not too far away (short drive long walk) Take the “Coaster” south to Encinitas, Solana or all the way down to Old Town in San Diego and enjoy one of the most toured cities in the US. Taking the train north one stop puts you at downtown Carlsbad- also a worthy venture.

Local cuisine- I like Sushi Cuchi (excuse the name) Half off menu on Sunday night.

Got Gas? - Costco is close and about 30 cents per gallon cheaper than any other gas station. Get there early to avoid the mayhem. Pumps open 5:30-6:00am depending upon the day.