Carlsbad Beaches
South of Oceanside and north of Encinitas, the city of Carlsbad is home to a series of warm, sandy beaches that attract locals and visitors alike. At the northern end, Carlsbad City Beach (including Frazee Beach) spreads from Ocean Street to Elm. Then Carlsbad State Beach (better known as Tamarack Beach) extends from Tamarack to the breakwaters at the mouth of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. Three miles south is South Carlsbad State Beach, popular for camping. The South Ponto Beach day-use area within the state beach is known from its wide, sandy beach.
For several miles, tall bluffs south of Agua Hedionda make access to beaches more difficult than in the north. South, near Batiquitos Lagoon and Ponto Beach, access becomes fairly easy once again.
Tamarack Beach (Carlsbad State Beach)
Carlsbad State Beach
Carlsbad State Beach is often called Tamarack Beach. Parking is available in a lot at the foot of Tamarack or along Carlsbad Boulevard. Several trails lead down to the beach. Restrooms and outdoor showers are available. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer. Surfing is popular near the jetties. Other visitors enjoy jogging, cycling, and strolling along the seawall path along with stand-up paddleboarding, sun bathing, boogie-boarding, and swimming.
Carlsbad City Beach
Carlsbad City Beach has access paths at the bottoms of Ocean Street, Christianson Way, and Grand Avenue. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. The beach is popular for surfing, surf fishing, sun bathing, and swimming. Surfing hours are restricted from May through October.
South Ponto Beach
South Ponto Beach is the southern portion of South Carlsbad State Beach. This day-use area offers parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers. Visitors enjoy sunbathing, boogie-boarding, surfing, and volleyball. Poles are provided; bring your own ball and net. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer.
South Ponto Beach
