Photo by Willie Wheeler

Carlsbad vacation rentals

We found 3,782 vacation rentals — enter your dates for availability

Discover a selection of 362 homes, 89 apartments, and other vacation rentals in Carlsbad that are perfect for your trip. Whether you’re staying in a vacation home with your kids or with friends, you'll find the amenities you need and want, which might include a hot tub and garden. Whatever you're looking for, you're sure to find a rental that has what everyone needs, including accessible or non-smoking choices.
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Find out more about Carlsbad

Find out more about Carlsbad

Why visit Carlsbad

  1. Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy stunning coastal views and relaxing beach outings perfect for families.
  2. Outdoor Activities: Explore urban parks and engage in various outdoor adventures.
  3. Cultural Experiences: Visit local universities and partake in cultural events.
  4. Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy condos, luxurious resorts, and beach rentals to suit your needs.
  5. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Experience a welcoming environment ideal for families and travelers seeking fun.

Popular types of accommodation in Carlsbad

Looking for the perfect getaway in Carlsbad? You’re in the right place! Our top vacation rental options include cozy condos, spacious houses, and modern apartments. Whether you’re interested in luxurious beach rentals, elegant villas, or family-friendly hotels, we have a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Explore our selection of Carlsbad ocean villas and luxury resorts for an unforgettable experience by the coast!

  • Condos: The top choice for vacationers in Carlsbad, offering a blend of comfort and convenience, often with stunning views.
  • Houses: A favorite for families and groups, these homes provide ample space and a home-like atmosphere.
  • Apartments: Ideal for couples or solo travelers, these stylish units offer a compact and practical lodging solution.
  • Cottages: A charming option for those seeking a cozy and inviting retreat near the beach.
  • Villas: Luxurious and spacious, perfect for those wanting an upscale experience during their stay.**

Top attractions in Carlsbad

Carlsbad, California, is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering a mix of beaches, urban parks, and modern attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from fun beach outings to cultural experiences at local universities. Whether you're looking to relax by the ocean or explore the vibrant local scene, Carlsbad has something for everyone to enjoy.

  1. LEGOLAND® California: This vibrant theme park offers a world of imagination, featuring rides, shows, and attractions themed around LEGO. Perfect for families, it's a place where creativity comes to life through interactive exhibits and fun-filled experiences.
  2. Carlsbad State Beach: A beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline, Carlsbad State Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. Its picturesque views and relaxing atmosphere make it a perfect spot for families and beach lovers alike.
  3. Oceanside Pier: Located 3 miles from Carlsbad, this iconic pier offers stunning ocean views, fishing opportunities, and a friendly atmosphere. It's a great place for families to enjoy a leisurely stroll or watch the sunset.

Things to do recommended for couples

Planning a romantic getaway in Carlsbad? Enjoy a live concert at Belly Up for great entertainment, sip wine at Fallbrook Winery amidst a romantic setting, or embark on an adventure together at Eli Howard Surf School for some exciting outdoor fun. Your couple's retreat awaits!

Things to do recommended for families

Your family will love exploring the SoCal Sports Complex for relaxation, splashing around at The Wave Waterpark for thrilling water fun, and enjoying games at Boomers Vista for an action-packed day. Carlsbad offers a perfect blend of adventure and family-friendly activities!

Things to do recommended for groups

In Carlsbad, your group can shop at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, enjoy a round of golf at Aviara Golf Club, and take in a performance at the New Village Arts Theatre, immersing yourselves in the local culture and entertainment.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Carlsbad

When you're planning a trip, whether it’s with a group, family, pets, or for an extended stay, be sure to refine your search based on your specific priorities. Here are some helpful tips for booking on Vrbo.

  • Traveling to Carlsbad with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you'll require, as well as features like a fully equipped kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. The good news is that you can easily filter for these options and more on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Carlsbad with young kids: Traveling with young kids can be quite demanding. It's important to prioritize their comfort and safety, along with suitable amenities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, keep in mind the location of family-friendly attractions to enhance your experience.
  • Taking your pets with you to Carlsbad: For many, a family vacation wouldn't be the same without their furry companions. If that resonates with you, explore Vrbo listings that welcome pets. Many of these pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that every member of your family feels comfortable and at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Carlsbad: If you're in search of vacation rentals that offer discounts for stays of a month or longer, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rental options. Don’t forget to include specific features like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search criteria as well.

Where to stay in Carlsbad

Carlsbad, California, is a vibrant family-friendly destination perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation. Explore stunning beaches with breathtaking views or take a short trip to the colorful city of Palm Springs for a delightful California getaway. With its friendly atmosphere and engaging excursions, Carlsbad offers an unforgettable experience for families and travelers seeking entertainment and adventure in a beautiful coastal setting.

  • Oceanside: Located a mere 3 miles from Carlsbad, Oceanside is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of family-friendly experiences, including recreation parks and local casinos. The beautiful Oceanside Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, while attractions like the nearby theme park offer fun for all ages. With its picturesque harbor and inviting beachfront, Oceanside is ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
  • La Jolla: About 23 miles from Carlsbad, La Jolla is a stunning coastal gem renowned for its breathtaking ocean views and upscale ambiance. This charming city is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering pristine beaches and the scenic La Jolla Cove. Visitors can explore the vibrant shopping centers and enjoy fine dining with a view. The area's educational attractions, including the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, further enrich the experience, making La Jolla a must-visit destination.
  • Temecula: Situated 26 miles from Carlsbad, Temecula is a charming city that offers a romantic and family-friendly getaway. Known for its beautiful vineyards and wineries, Temecula is perfect for a wine-tasting adventure. Visitors can also enjoy exciting activities at local casinos and resorts, as well as explore the scenic campgrounds. The city hosts various events and conferences, making it a lively hub for entertainment, while the nearby racetrack adds an element of thrill for racing enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Carlsbad

If you're planning a trip to Carlsbad, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is August. Peak season runs in March to April and July, while off-peak times, like October to December tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
March57.9°F (14.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.4°F (21.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.5°F (22.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October67.8°F (19.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November61.7°F (16.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
December56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Looking to save on your next vacation? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Moreover, opting for a longer stay can often result in significant savings. To discover the ideal Vrbo property that fits your budget, feel free to utilize our filters to search by price, location, and type of vacation rental.

Save more with One Key

When you reserve a qualifying Vrbo for your group getaway, you'll earn OneKeyCash™ on the full booking amount. Being the organizer really pays off! Join our One Key rewards program to unlock exclusive savings for members and accumulate OneKeyCash™ on eligible stays. Sign up today and begin earning valuable rewards.

Vrbo Trips: Effortless planning

Vrbo’s Trip Board provides a convenient platform for you to create new travel plans, manage your existing arrangements, and review your bookings. All the properties you've saved or reserved are neatly categorized into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To learn more about Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.vrbo.com/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties booked during 2023 and 2024.

Make like the great and the good with a Carlsbad vacation

If you're the sort that loves to live the high life, Carlsbad might just be the vacation spot for you. Just 35 miles from downtown San Diego, this smart beachfront city is one of the wealthiest spots in the state, and a glam Carlsbad vacation rental is an opportunity to see how the other half lives without breaking the bank. You'll come for the gorgeous beaches, surf spots, and family-friendly attractions, but once you're there you'll get to enjoy brewery tours, flower meadows, and fine dining. And with a year-round program of events, there's never a dull day in Carlsbad.

Carlsbad is the coolest kid on the (Lego) block

What's that you can hear? High-pitched voices? The rapid pattering of little feet? A palpable sense of excitement? It can only be Legoland California. This family-friendly theme park is one of Carlsbad's most popular attractions, featuring entertainment, rides, and even its own water park and aquarium. If you're around between March and May, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are a particularly lovely part of the Carlsbad vacation rental experience, with multi colored fields, rose gardens, and special seasonal events. There are museums too, including the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum and the Carlsbad Barrio and Museum.

Activities near Carlsbad vacation homes

With a Carlsbad vacation rental, it's only a matter of time before you find yourself down on the beach. Surfers and sun seekers alike love it round here, and it's a pretty sure bet that you will, too. And if you're not content with seeing the spectacular California coastline from ground level, then of course Carlsbad has a more decadent way to do it, with various companies offering plane and helicopter tours. Another quirk of the area is that it's got a disproportionate number of breweries—so hire yourself a designated driver and get some of the good stuff down you.

Climate for your stay in Carlsbad vacation homes

As weather goes, it doesn't come much better than the climate in this part of California. Summers round here are hot and dry, so you can be fairly certain your Legoland trip isn't going to be a washout. It rarely gets too hot, thanks to those cool breezes blowing in off the Pacific, but if it does, the ocean's right there, after all. Winter is also a decent option for a Carlsbad vacation rental. The weather's still pretty mild, without too much rain, though you might get a bit of fog coming in from time to time.

When a vacationer is tired of beaches, they're tired of life

If the attractions and the upscale vibe make Carlsbad a winner in the vacation destination stakes, then the setting isn't bad either. The city is full of open spaces, including lakes, parks, ranches, and hills. The standout feature of the area, though, is its spectacular Pacific coast. With 7 miles of rocky coastline and sandy beaches, there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a secluded spot to laze in the sun or some serious waves to test your mettle against. Many of the beaches in this part of San Diego County are protected, making them havens for wildlife.

How to get to and around Carlsbad

The nearest airport is in San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN), located 30.7 mi (49.5 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into Carlsbad, CA (CLD-McClellan-Palomar), which is 4.9 mi (7.8 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, make your way to Carlsbad Village Station or Carlsbad Poinsettia Station to see more of the city.

Kid-friendly activities near Carlsbad vacation homes

Carlsbad is one of the best destinations for a family trip. Vacation homes are available near places like Miniland USA, an amusement park with thrill rides, kiddie rides, and games, and Batiquitos Lagoon, an ecological reserve with a nature center and hiking trails. Kids will also like SEA LIFE Aquarium, a family-friendly marine facility with thousands of sea creatures and interactive exhibits.

Romantic vacation homes in Carlsbad

Carlsbad boasts numerous romantic locations for a couple’s retreat. Vacation homes can be found near places like San Elijo Lagoon, a nature reserve with miles of trails through a lagoon teeming with wildlife, and the Flower Fields, a seasonal park with acres of colorful flowers and walking paths. You could also visit Leo Carrillo Ranch History Park, a historic park in a canyon with peacocks, birds of paradise, and other unique flora and fauna.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Carlsbad when booking a vacation rental?
Aviara is one of the most popular neighborhoods to find a vacation rental in Carlsbad. While in the area, get around to big-hitting attractions like Aviara Golf Club and Poinsettia Park.
What is the most popular type of vacation rental accommodation in Carlsbad?
The most popular types of vacation rentals in Carlsbad are condos. Searching for something different? Vrbo has numerous options to match the needs of our guests, so you’ll see vacation properties in lots of shapes and sizes. The ideal home away from home is waiting for you — get hold of yours today.
How much does it cost to rent a vacation rental in Carlsbad?
A number of factors can determine the price of a vacation rental in Carlsbad, such as the time of year, property type and length of stay. Still, all of our vacation homes have one thing in common — incredible value. Just add your travel dates to find your ideal escape.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Carlsbad?
When you travel and the style and size of the property will influence how much you’ll pay for your beachside vacation rental. Enter your Carlsbad travel dates to see all your options on Vrbo. Did someone just say “private pool”? Use our filters to pick the amenities and features you want.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Carlsbad?
With 582 vacation rentals that host pets, your furry buddy can join in on your Carlsbad vacation. Use our filter tool to browse our pet-friendly vacation rentals and find your pawfect vacation home on Vrbo.
Can I rent a house with a pool in Carlsbad?
Check the “pool” box in our filter tool and select from 268 houses with private pools in Carlsbad on Vrbo. Morning swim, afternoon splash or midnight soak? How you spend your leisure time is up to you when your Vrbo vacation home comes with its own pool.
What are popular rental amenities in Carlsbad?
When it comes to rental amenities that people are on the lookout for in Carlsbad, a garden, a barbecue grill and a beach view are at the top of the list. With Vrbo vacation rentals, you’ll discover options to fit your style and taste, whether you’re vacationing with family, friends or even pets.
Are there large group vacation rentals in Carlsbad?
Carlsbad has 34 vacation homes that can cater to 10 or more people. These properties come with enough space to enjoy good times with your nearest and dearest.
Are there vacation rentals in Carlsbad that welcome kids?
With 562 family-friendly vacation rentals to pick from in Carlsbad, now is the perfect time to introduce the little ones to the thrills of travel. Just check our “Properties good for families” filter box to discover stays loaded with amenities perfect for traveling families, like full kitchens, pools, bunk beds and hot tubs.
What are the top attractions for families in Carlsbad?
There are tons of fabulous things to see and do with the family in Carlsbad, including:

  • LEGOLAND® California
  • Carlsbad State Beach
  • Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Are there one-bedroom vacation rentals in Carlsbad?
Yes, Carlsbad has 156 one-bedroom rentals available. Usually located in popular areas because of their smaller size, a one-bedroom vacation property is great if you’re getting away with your partner or a pal. And with comforts like laundry facilities and more privacy than a standard hotel, you’ll be able to relax while discovering this amazing destination.
Can I find two-bedroom vacation rentals in Carlsbad?
Carlsbad has 213 two-bedroom vacation rentals to pick from. Book a vacation home with all the space and comfort you want at a price you’ll love on Vrbo.
Are there vacation rentals with WiFi in Carlsbad?
You can choose from 229 vacation rentals with WiFi in Carlsbad. If you’d like to disconnect from daily life on your escape, but still want to be connected to the web, these properties have just what you need. Narrow your search by applying the WiFi filter on Vrbo.
How can I find vacation rentals with air conditioning in Carlsbad?
Select your dates and then make use of the filters to view vacation rentals with air conditioning in Carlsbad on Vrbo. With 401 air-conditioned properties on offer here, you can look forward to a cool and comfy stay.
How old do you have to be to rent a vacation rental in Carlsbad?
You’ll have to check with the Carlsbad vacation property you’d like on Vrbo as age restrictions vary. However, it’s normally 16, 18 or 21.
How long can I rent a vacation rental in Carlsbad for?
It really depends on the Carlsbad property. To look at a list of options offering extended stays, simply type your travel dates and number of guests into the Vrbo search page. You can look forward to having the whole place to yourself, along with amenities such as a fully-equipped kitchen and a backyard where the kids can play. Be on the lookout for any long-term stays that offer weekly or monthly discounts.
Does Vrbo offer discounts for vacation homes in Carlsbad?
Whether you’ve got your eye on one of our newly listed homes, or one of our weekly or monthly discounts on vacation rentals, you’re sure to score some great deals and discounts on Vrbo. From weekend trips to extended vacations, we’ve got the perfect space for your next Carlsbad escape.

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