South Carlsbad State Beach

South Carlsbad State Beach is a three-mile long beach on the waterfront of Carlsbad, California. Most of this state beach is in front of the linear South Carlsbad Campground that fills the void between the sand and the asphalt of Carlsbad Boulevard (Highway 101). The highly desirable campground that boasts more than 200 camp spots sits high above the beach on a bluff that is slowly eroding away. If you want to camp here, book well in advance, especially in the summer months (book through ReserveCalifornia.com).

From the camping areas there are several long stairs to access the beach which can be narrow depending on tides. Walking on the beach is wonderful, especially if the tide has receded and exposed the hard wet sand. Smooth rocks are naturally piled at the base of the cliffs in many places. Lifeguards are on hand at several fixed towers during the summer months.

At the center of the campground you’ll find The Camp Store which is open every day during the summer (varies during the off-season). They serve meals in the evenings and lunch on the weekends along with live music on most nights. See their website for hours and the music schedule.

There are no day-use parking spaces in the campground but there are lots at both ends. At the south end of the campground the beach widens next to the entrance to Batiquitos Lagoon where free day-use parking can be found for shoreline access (near South Ponto Beach). At the north end of the campground there is a similar day-use parking area that is known as North Ponto Beach.

Address

Poinsettia Ln & Carlsbad Blvd
Carlsbad, CA 92011

Phone

760-438-3143

Park Name

South Carlsbad State Beach, Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Preserve

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Fees

Fee for camping, free day-use parking south of campground

Activities

Camping, Surfing, Swimming, Scuba Diving, Hiking, Fishing, Birdwatching, Beach Walking

Amenities

Campground, Fire Pits, Restrooms, Showers, Lifeguard, Camp Store

Links

Water Quality
Water Temps
Tide Chart
Surf Report