South Carlsbad State Beach Weekend Itinerary
This South Carlsbad State Beach Weekend Itinerary provides an overview of the best things to do and explore while camping here. It also includes how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, and how to get around.
I camped at South Carlsbad State Beach a couple of times earlier this year and it was such a hidden gem! This is a great spot to get away for the weekend, spend time outdoors, and enjoy the ocean view! Read below to see details about my tips for what to do while camping at South Carlsbad State Beach.
Overview
How to get a reservation:
How to Get There:
South Carlsbad State Beach is located on the coast between LA and San Diego. Map your route so you can see how long it will take you to drive there. Keep in mind your route time may change depending on traffic. If possible I recommend leaving earlier in the day. Even on Saturdays, I’ve seen 1 hour + backups on the I-5. I do recommend stopping at the grocery store before you get there to pick up any groceries, ice, and firewood. The campground was renovating its store during my stay in Spring 2021 so they did not have firewood.
When to Visit:
California’s summer is a late one, typically July through October. However, I camped at South Carlsbad State Beach in March and in May and it was nice weather both times. We did get a light rain shower from the marine layer one night, but we didn’t mind.
Where to Stay:
In the campground of course! I recommend getting a campground on the ocean side of the road. The camp spots are all dirt grounds so it is easy to set up a tent and also easy to car camp. I enjoyed car camping both times here because sometimes it’s nice to not set up a tent. I also enjoyed the mornings opening up the jeep hatchback and watching the waves.
How to Get Around:
If you pick up groceries and firewood on the way in, you won’t need to drive throughout the weekend! I’d recommend bringing bicycles, skateboards, carvers, rollerblades, etc. Anything that is fun to ride along the paved campground road. You’ll see a lot of people doing this throughout your stay and I have to admit, it’s a ton of fun!
Things to Do
After you arrive and check-in, it’s time to set up camp and enjoy the view! The first day’s sunset and a nice drink always help start the weekend off right. After getting set up, you have the entire weekend to enjoy your campground. Here are my favorite things to do there:
- Go surfing! there are multiple walking paths down to the water
- Enjoy a fire
- Relax and take in the ocean view
- Watch sunset
- Enjoy some yard games, like Can Jam
- Use the camping road as your path to go biking, skate-boarding, or roller-blading
I hope this South Carlsbad State Beach itinerary helps plan your trip! Feel free to reach out on my Contact page if you have any questions!