Bury your toes in the warm sand of Carlsbad State Beach while a crisp ocean breeze blows through your hair. Pack the kids in the car and enjoy a beautiful scenic drive down the San Diego coast. Whether you're coming to Carlsbad for a romantic getaway or are looking for a vacation that is enjoyable for the whole family, Carlsbad's resorts, world-class dining options and array of local and near-by attractions equals the perfect Southern California experience.

For family dining, there's no place quite like Carlsbad! Watch the sunset over the sea while enjoying dinner on the patio of Dini's Bistro. Have an affordable and tasty Prime Rib Dinner at Koko Beach. Vigilucci's offers two locations in Carlsbad; an authentic Italian restaurant with outdoor dining in Downtown Carlsbad and a seafood restaurant overlooking the ocean off of Highway 101. Or grab a microbrewed beer in a fun and casual atmosphere at Pizza Port on Carlsbad Village Drive!

A visit to the city's majestic and colorful Flower Fields is a must for any visitor to Carlsbad. Kids and couples alike will enjoy wandering through the nearly 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that blanket the rolling hills of Carlsbad Ranch, overlooking the ocean. The best time to visit is from early March through early May, when the flowers are in full bloom.

The king of all Carlsbad family attractions is Legoland California. This 128-acre theme park is geared toward families with tots ages two through 12. With over 50 rides, shows and attractions, it is a must-do for those visiting Carlsbad with children. Carlsbad is also in very close proximity to other renowned family attractions, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo, San Diego Wild Animal Park and the beautiful and spacious Balboa Park, with its kid-friendly museums and playgrounds. Disneyland, Universal Studios and other popular Southern California family attractions are within a couple hours drive.

Enjoy the beach as you walk along the sea wall in downtown Carlsbad, which allows you to walk down by the ocean without having to walk in the sand. Ideal for families with strollers. Wednesdays there is a local farmer's market with fresh fruits and vegetables. In March and November, downtown is filled with local artists, musicians and merchants for the largest one day street fair in the US!

For a relaxing Carlsbad experience, try Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa or Bell D'ora. And don't underestimate the legendary Carlsbad golf courses. The La Costa PGA Championship Golf Courses and the award-winning Four Seasons Resort Aviara Golf Club are both good bets and favorites of local Carlsbad golfers. Carlsbad's newest golf course, The Crossings at Carlsbad, is an 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Nash and features stunning fairways and perfectly manicured greens.

For the romantic Carlsbad visitor, California Dreamin' Hot Air Balloon Rides provides a fantastic bird's eye view of Carlsbad and neighboring towns, as well as beautiful sunset views of the Pacific Ocean. Balloons launch from nearby Del Mar, just a few miles south of Carlsbad. California Dreamin' also specializes in rides over the beautiful wine country of Temecula Valley, about an hour's drive east of Carlsbad. Couples may want to purchase a package that includes wine tasting and winery tours.

An authentic Carlsbad dining experience means Mexican food and, in Carlsbad, Mexican food means Norte's. This Carlsbad favorite is located in the quaint Village by the Sea and serves great food in a fun atmosphere. Enjoy a margarita or two on the patio while enjoying the perfect Carlsbad weather. Another Carlsbad favorite is the Coyote Grill, which features live music on weekends, open fire pits and great casual dining.

And of course, excellent seafood restaurants abound in Carlsbad. Restaurants that specialize in ocean fare include the Fish House Veracruz, featuring a fun and casual atmosphere that is perfect for Carlsbad's family visitors, as well as couples on a date, and the very casual Carlsbad family-friendly favorite Harbor Fish.

The Daily News Café, a diner-style restaurant is a favorite in Carlsbad for breakfast. Or enjoy an outdoor brunch at mid-range priced Bellefleur Winery & Restaurant, which many claim serves the best Mediterranean food in town.