Watch CBS News

New Hilton Open in Carlsbad

Long-hailed as the gateway to LEGOLAND, the beach town of Carlsbad is recognized as one of the best family destinations in Southern California. Now it has one of the best luxury accommodations as well, with the opening of the Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa. The premier coastal location of the resort is directly across from Carlsbad State Beach in north San Diego County and offers spectacular views of the Pacific.

This stylish new resort is a shining example of contemporary Craftsman architecture and modern décor, beginning with a stunning lobby and beautiful enlarged photographic prints of the ocean and sea life displayed on the walls throughout.

The new Hilton features 215 spacious guest rooms and suites, an ocean view swimming pool, a full-service Ocean Crest Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center and world-class dining at Chandler's Restaurant & Lounge, which highlights coastal regional cuisine from acclaimed international Chef Pascal Vignau.

Guests will want to spend all day and night at the resort's large pool area with an incredible ocean view, food and drink service and plenty of seating areas. The saline-treated pool has a children's splash pool as well, so little ones can waddle in a few inches of water to cool off. Be sure and head to the pool early to grab a covered, rotating cabana bed (first come/first serve) – my kids loved these! At night, fire pits light up the area giving it a cozy ambiance. It's a great place for relaxing in a comfy lounge chair, with a drink in hand, enjoying the sunset over the ocean and warming your feet by the fire.

The staff at the Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa is especially friendly, professional and always willing to accommodate guests' requests. The rooms and suites are both sophisticated and comfortable, with fine linens and heavenly beds. A refrigerator and microwave come with each room and are nice amenities to have when traveling with children. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and PrinterOn remote printing directly from their room, as well as, use of the open and inviting technology center located near Chandler's, outfitted with both PC and Mac computers and printers.

After breakfast at Chandler's, head across the street for a day at the beach (newly accessible crosswalk, gate and stairway installed) and enjoy the beautiful shore at low or moderate tide – it's best to avoid high tide when the beach becomes a bit narrow. Better yet, take advantage of the resort's complimentary shuttle, which takes guests anywhere within a ten-mile radius of the resort, and covers many beaches, including Ponto Beach for surfing or beach volleyball.
Miles of sandy beach provide a natural playground for fun in the sun. The complimentary shuttle will also take you to the charming town of Carlsbad, just a few miles away. Here you'll find plenty of recreational activities, dining, entertainment, shopping, museums and year-round attractions.

Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort & Spa has announced two overnight packages for summer 2012 that include deluxe accommodations with ocean views. The Family Value Package ($254/night) includes a VIP coupon book at Carlsbad Premium Outlet Mall, complimentary beach rental package and a 15% discount at the gift shop, Chandler's, the spa, and a few local surf shops. Also included is a 15% discount on admission tickets to LEGOLAND, Sea World, the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park. The Golf Escape Package ($289/night) includes one round (18 holes) of golf at The Crossings at Carlsbad and complimentary rental of premium clubs and golf cart (additional rounds of golf can be purchased).


Related posts: Best Theme-Park Day For Little Kids | Field Trip: Carlsbad

Other recommended hotels in the area:





Liz Laing is a writer, web designer and photographer who lives in Los Angeles. Her latest projects may be followed on Liz Laing.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.