RESERVATIONS NOW OPEN FOR SUMMER 2026
Yes. As with most San Diego County beaches, Carlsbad beaches are a popular destination for tourists during the summer months. We suggest getting your spot in the sand early (before 10AM) if you are visiting late June through Labor Day and wish to avoid crowds.
Yes. From Spring through October, lifeguards are on duty at a handful of locations along Carlsbad beaches. One of these towers just happens to be situated at the end of Grand Ave. (talk about convenient!)
Before you head to the water, check out the city's resource for beach safety. Here you'll also see
Yes. However, if you're visiting in the late fall or winter months, check the forecast for "king tides." King tides typically occur a few times per year and coincide with a full or new moon. When at their highest these extreme tides bring the ocean all the way to the seawall, covering virtually all walkable sand. The beaches are not closed during this time.
For 2025, forecasters predict the first weeks of November, December, and January (2026) to have king tides.
No. It is the same law throughout San Diego County beaches. You'll probably witness several people ignoring this ordinance, but citations are issued, and there are regular patrols. Nothing screams, "I'm a tourist!" more than flouting this law. If you must consume, be discreet... and respectful. (And no glass)
Yes. Most beaches in San Diego are prone to the occasional rip current. Though it is true that rip currents are far deadlier than any threat from sea life in the Pacific, lifeguards spend the majority of their day peering into the water, watching for signs of rip current potential. Always swim near a lifeguard and learn how to identify the conditions that favor the development of a rip current. Know what to look for by checking out the City of Carlsbad's Beach Safety page. Once you know what to look for—and what to do if you are caught in one—you are generally safe.
Children should not swim in areas where a strong rip advisory has been issued. Lifeguards typically mark these with a red flag as soon as they are identified.
Yes. While shark sightings are fairly common along the California coast, incidents are EXTREMELY rare, with attacks even less likely. The uptick in shark encounters in recent years pales by comparison to the increase in human activity in the water. An important statistic to consider: You are 91% LESS likely to be bitten by a shark than you were 60 years ago.
This supports the accepted theory that sharks have no desire to hunt humans. You're far more likely to see a dolphin or seal than a shark of any type off the Carlsbad coast. Relax. And don't forget to use the "stingray shuffle."
