Known as “The Village by the Sea,” the city of Carlsbad offers the charm of a European town with the conveniences of a large city. As you wander streets lined with antique stores, boutique shops, and sidewalk cafes, you’ll soon discover much more, including miles of coastline, beautiful flower gardens and world-class resorts. Carlsbad offers homes that vary from townhomes to planned communities with large single family homes. And for those looking for something closer to an urban experience, there are condos and apartments in the buzz of downtown.

With a perfectly mild climate, each season offers a variety of unique events and activities, from street fairs to art walks. Steps away sit clean, uncrowded beaches for swimming, sunbathing and surfing as well as beautiful lagoons for fishing, bird-watching and nature trail hikes. Venture further to discover the unique destinations of LEGOLAND® California and Sea Life Aquarium or the nearby attractions of San Diego and Los Angeles. Come spring, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch make for a lovely afternoon for all ages, with 50 acres of colorful ranunculus blooms.

And what about those mineral springs? The site where that farmer uncovered the alkaline waters is now the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa. The Spanish Colonial–style getaway sits on 400 rolling acres outfitted with 17 tennis courts, eight separate pools, a stunning spa, and two legendary golf courses. A few miles away, the Park Hyatt Aviara has its own golf course (designed by Arnold Palmer) plus a huge spa, fine dining, and a kids’ club. For a back-to-nature getaway, stay at South Carlsbad State Beach Campgrounds: Tucked among the bluffs, the seaside campsites offer ocean and sunset views.

Also close to the water, Carlsbad Village has more than 100 unique shops packed within a few walkable blocks. It’s not all relaxation and culinary pleasures though, this city holds a special place in the hearts of serious runners. The oceanfront Carlsbad 5000, held at the end of March, is a flat-and-fast all-day event that can include everyone from toddlers to Olympians. January’s Carlsbad Marathon and Half-Marathon are equally popular, thanks to a breezy course and ocean views.