Carlsbad Flower Fields
I've driven through the area many times over the years, but this was my first time to stop at the Carlsbad Flower Fields. It was fantastic, so I'm confident that this will not be my only visit to the North San Diego attraction.
You can see hillsides covered with colorful ranunculus blooms, when you are on the freeway. However, looking at them from a distance doesn't compare to an up close experience.
This beautiful spot on the California coast has ideal growing conditions, so flowers made a good showing when first cultivated here about a hundred years ago. They thrive with the mild climate, sunshine and ocean breezes, so they have been a favorite crop all these years.
Ranunculus are pretty individually, but are even more spectacular when you are surrounded by them. The blossoms are a bit similar to roses, since there are layers of petals that form each flower. At the Flower Fields, rows are arranged by color for a stunning display.
Photo Gallery
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are only open for a short time each Spring, so you won't want to put it off. This year the fields are open daily 9am to 6pm through Mother's Day Sunday. It was really crowded for my weekend visit, so you may want to plan for a weekday if you can. Actually, it didn't feel crowded once I was in, but it was difficult to find parking. I'm not generally a fan of crowds, but still had a great time.
Following are a few tips for your visit.
- Shoes: My sandals were fine on the dirt paths in the fields, but other areas are covered with fine gravel that hurt my feet. Closed shoes would have been a better choice for me.
- Parking: The free parking at the fields and at the adjacent outlet mall were full the Saturday I was there, but $8 valet was available at the mall. This also makes it convenient to eat and shop before or after you get your fill of flowers.
- Tickets: Show your AAA card to get $1 off the regular admission price of $18.
- Photos: You'll want to take lots of pictures, so make sure your phone or other camera are charged and ready. Stay on the paths and take advantage of the many photo spots they have set up.
I expected to have a nice day, but ended up enjoying it even more than I thought I would. The flowers are gorgeous, and it was a fun family outing for us. It was so nice to spend a day surrounded by beauty. Now, I have pretty pictures to remind me of the day.
The Flower Fields
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Check out my other travel articles, so you can get more travel inspiration.