Shopping and dining are also major draws in Carlsbad. The city features a diverse range of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants serving farm-to-table cuisine. The popular Carlsbad Village area is home to many local boutiques and shops, as well as a weekly farmers market featuring fresh produce and artisanal goods. For more extensive shopping needs, the Westfield Carlsbad mall has over 90 stores and restaurants, including major retailers like Nordstrom and Macy’s. 

Carlsbad is also a hub for entertainment, with many community events throughout the year, including the annual Carlsbad Music Festival, the Carlsbad Village Faire, and the Carlsbad Marathon. The city is also home to several theaters and concert venues, including the New Village Arts Theatre and the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park.

Carlsbad is known for its excellent schools, which are part of the highly rated Carlsbad Unified School District. The district includes a number of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as alternative and charter schools. The district’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its high graduation rates and strong college acceptance rates.