A LEGOLAND and Family Beach Adventure at The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Perched above the Pacific, The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is a Southern California escape where coastal views and luxury amenities meet family-friendly comfort.
Why You'll Love It
As a mom of three and a lifestyle writer, I’m always looking for that rare getaway that combines upscale accommodations with true kid-friendliness.
When I received an invitation to visit The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa, I had high hopes—and this spot exceeded them all.
With walkable access to LEGOLAND, indulgent spa experiences, and coastal charm, it struck the perfect balance between luxury and laid-back family fun.
Waking up to coastal sunshine and winding down with sunset views—it’s the little luxuries that make a stay memorable.
Accommodations
Our guestroom was beautifully appointed and spacious enough for our family. The kids loved the layout, and I appreciated the peaceful touches, like the Westin Heavenly Bed—a signature for good reason.
The private balcony was a personal favorite, ideal for enjoying a warm morning drink to start the day off on the right foot. Coastal sunrises and salty ocean air made even the quiet moments memorable.
The interior design was chic and serene with soft neutrals, wood accents, and subtle coastal influences that elevated the space without overwhelming it. Details like plush bathrobes, a soaking tub, and Westin’s luxe Heavenly Bath products made it feel like a true escape.
Bathrooms include soaking tubs, spacious showers, plush bathrobes, and luxe Heavenly Bath products.
Amenities
The Westin Carlsbad shares its sprawling grounds with the adjacent Sheraton Carlsbad, giving guests access to two resort pools including a family-friendly pool with a waterslide. Our crew spent hours splashing, lounging, and enjoying the Southern California sunshine.
The Sheraton’s Kids Club was a delightful surprise—an air-conditioned break with books, toys, crafts, and games that gave my kids a mid-day creative outlet (and gave us parents a moment to regroup!).
The property also features a modern fitness center, bike rentals, and a business-friendly lobby space with cozy seating and views.
Another major plus? It’s a pet-friendly property, so furry family members are welcome too.
The Westin Carlsbad’s resort-style pool offers ocean views, ample lounge seating, and a relaxing spot for families to cool off.
Cuisine
Each morning, we walked over to the Sheraton Carlsbad’s 7 Mile Kitchen for a casual but delicious breakfast. The chocolate chip pancakes were a hit with my kids, while I savored the flavorful huevos rancheros.
The Westin Carlsbad offers spacious outdoor seating with beautiful coastal views—perfect for relaxed al fresco dining just steps from LEGOLAND and the spa.
At dinner, we headed to 20|TWENTY, The Westin’s signature restaurant, which delivered elevated California cuisine with a relaxed coastal vibe.
Think ocean views, seafood-forward plates, and a menu designed to please both grown-ups and little ones.
Family-friendly meets refined dining at 20|TWENTY, where the kids are happy and so are we.
Spa & Wellness
I slipped away to the newly renovated Ocean Pearl Spa for a "Journey to Remember" ritual and it truly lived up to its name. I wrote all about my time at the spa here.
The marine-inspired body mask and soothing massage left me recharged and glowing. It was the perfect self-care moment nestled within a fun-filled family trip.
From soothing massages to marine-infused rituals, Ocean Pearl Spa offers pure relaxation from head to toe.
Activities
The Westin Carlsbad's prime location makes it easy to explore Southern California’s best attractions. Our stay included beach visits, pool time, and of course—a full day at LEGOLAND California.
Channeling rock star energy with this life-size LEGO legend—because every great theme park moment deserves a standing ovation.
LEGOLAND Highlights:
Having private access from the hotel directly into the park was a total game changer. No shuttles, no parking stress—just a few steps and you’re in.
Cruisin' in style—my boys on a wild ride together, full of laughs and adventure!
What’s more: the apple fries topped with whipped cream (a must-try treat!), freestyle drink stations with refillable options, and the gift shop where the kids each picked out souvenirs—LEGO sets and even a bubble-blowing toy camera.
Crispy, cinnamon-y, dipped in whipped cream—these apple fries are the real ride.
We also loved walking through LEGO Miniland USA, a section of the park that features intricate models of prominent U.S. cities like New York, Las Vegas, and San Francisco—all made entirely from LEGO bricks.
It was surprisingly impressive and fun for both kids and adults to admire the creativity and detail.
What happens in LEGO Vegas...is absolutely magical!
From immersive rides to larger-than-life LEGO builds, the park was a dream for our kids (ages 2 to 7). It wasn’t crowded, which made it easier to enjoy the details—like creative playgrounds, roaming LEGO characters, and shady spots for downtime.
We also popped into the SEA LIFE Aquarium, which is located right on-site and included with admission. It took about an hour to explore and offered a refreshing change of scenery with its interactive exhibits, touch pools, and walk-through tunnel.
It was the perfect slower-paced break from the rides and crowds—and still kept the kids fully engaged.
The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is the ultimate luxury coastal retreat nestled along the Carlsbad coastline.
Insider Tips
Private LEGOLAND entrance. Skip the crowds and enter the park directly from the hotel.
Split your pool time. Take advantage of both The Westin and Sheraton pools—kids will especially love the Sheraton’s waterslide and Kids Club.
Book the spa early. Ocean Pearl Spa is popular for a reason; schedule treatments in advance to secure your spot.
Arrive early or stay late. Give yourself plenty of time to unwind and make the most of the spa’s amenities, like the steam room and relaxation lounge—it's all part of the experience.
Plan a balanced itinerary. LEGOLAND is best for ages 2 to 10, and the park's 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. hours make it manageable without burnout.
Local beaches. Carlsbad beaches are just a short drive away and far less crowded than San Diego’s busier stretches.
The resort has cozy outdoor spaces with fire pits and comfortable seating where guests can relax.
Final Thoughts
For families looking for an elevated Southern California escape, The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa delivers a standout experience. With spa serenity, beachy bliss, and LEGOLAND magic all in one spot, it’s where relaxation meets adventure—and where memories are built brick by brick.
For more information and to book a stay at The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa, call (760) 827-2800 or visit their website. Follow on Instagram: @westincarlsbad
5480 Grand Pacific Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008
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[Photos courtesy of The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa/Alisha Racker]
Alisha Racker’s beauty career has spanned over a decade as she's worked as a master esthetician, skin care PR-pro, and freelance writer.
She lives in the beautiful mountains of Salt Lake City with her husband and children. Follow her on Instagram: @slcbeautybabe.