Are the Colorful Carlsbad Flower Fields Worth It? (2023)
Every year, thousands of people flock to the Carlsbad Flower Fields in Southern California, eager to get a glimpse of the spectacular, colorful display. But is it worth all the hype?
As someone who has recently visited this popular annual event, I’m here to tell you everything you need to know about my experience and all that you can expect. This way, you can decide if spending your hard-earned money on the colorful Carlsbad Flower Fields is worth it.
Table of Contents
- Are the Carlsbad Flower Fields Worth It?
- 5 Things to Do at Carlsbad Flower Fields
- Best Time to Visit Carlsbad Flower Fields
- How Much Does It Cost to Go to Carlsbad Flower Fields?
- What Attractions Are Near the Flower Fields?
- Where to Stay in San Diego
- Carlsbad Flower Fields: FAQ
- Wrap-Up: Are the Carlsbad Flower Fields Worth It? (2023)
Are the Carlsbad Flower Fields Worth It?
I’ll be honest, for me, it was a fun experience and activity to do with my friend. But, I’m not particularly in a rush to go back every year.
Obviously, I can say this with 20/20 hindsight, but that’s genuinely how I felt leaving the flower fields.
And to give you some more insight — that’s hopefully more helpful than a flat-out “you should absolutely go,” or “you should not”… Here are a few scenarios in which I think the Carlsbad Flower Fields are worth visiting versus not.
The Carlsbad Flower Fields Are Worth It If…
You want to spend a day out in nature, enjoying some fresh air and taking in beautiful natural visuals.
Yes, you can catch beautiful visuals pretty much anywhere in San Diego and the Greater San Diego area, but it’s not often you get to see 50 acres of color-coordinated blooming Ranunculus flowers at once!
If you are looking for that perfect, aesthetic Instagram photo then a visit to Carlsbad Flower Fields is probably worth it for you. They have designated areas where you can take pictures amongst the flowers.
This is much better for the environment than pulling over on the side of the road and trampling over/killing wildflowers to get your ideal shot.
Lastly, I would say it’s worth it if you’re looking for a super easy and laid-back activity to do for a few hours. Aside from ensuring you show up at the correct time, there’s not a lot of stress involved, so it could be a fun experience to do with friends or family.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity to give back and support a small local family business!
The Carlsbad Flower Fields Are NOT Worth It If…
Now, aside from the previously described cases not really applying to you, here are a couple of cases in which I would reconsider going.
The first case is if you’re on a tight budget and/or limited on time. I’ll be honest, the tickets can be on the more expensive side in comparison to other activities. Once the service fee is factored in, an adult ticket is $25+.
Thus, if you only have hardly any time or just end up spending an hour or less at the flower fields, you may walk away feeling like it really wasn’t worth it.
Another case to reconsider is if you want to see more than flowers. This seems obvious, but I always find it funny when people who love thrilling activities complain about doing ones that are more casual.
For example, I love getting an adrenaline rush, whether it’s paragliding within the Swiss alps or surfing the waves of San Diego — I enjoy a lot of mental and physical stimulation. That said, I also value leisurely strolls, so I had a good time at the Flower Fields.
So, if you’re looking for something that’ll get your heart racing or need more than just seeing tons of vibrant flowers to get your money’s worth, it may be best to look for a different activity to do in Carlsbad.
And just as a friendly reminder, these are just my opinions — so take everything with a healthy grain of salt!
🌷 NOTE: If you decide that the flower fields aren’t for you or are looking for other things to do in Carlsbad, I’ve included some other activities to check out here.
5 Things to Do at Carlsbad Flower Fields
If you end up deciding to go, here are a few activities you can partake in!
1. Wander Through the Flower Fields
This is pretty straightforward and what you’ll likely spend most of your time doing anyways. But in case you forgot within the last 5 seconds…
During the springtime, the fields of Ranunculus are in full bloom, transforming the landscape into a living rainbow of colors. For those who have never seen this sight before, it can be quite a magical experience.
And, with rows and rows of vibrant blooms stretching as far as the eye can see, there are plenty of opportunities to take dreamy pictures! As I mentioned earlier, they have little designated areas set up every few rows of flowers.
At these stations, you’ll find a bench that’s surrounded by flowers. Whether you choose to sit or stand is your prerogative.
Just please be respectful of the tape they have set up to protect the flowers.
When I visited, I saw so many people sidestep the tape and knowingly walk into the flower fields just to get their shot. It was quite frustrating, and you could see where flowers had been sat or stepped on.
After you get your pictures, you can easily spend a good 45 minutes to an hour just walking along the perimeter of the flower field. My guess is that it would probably take 1.5 – 2 hours if you walked up and down every row for a few acres.
Either way, it’s lovely to admire the flowers up close and just stroll along at your own pace.
🌻 NOTE: They also have a brand new 5-acre plot of sunflowers. This wasn’t available when I visited, but it might be nice to see! Just try not to lose track of small people, because as a “5 foot nothing” individual, it’s quite prone to happening lol! 😅
2. Ride in Style With a Wagon Tour
To catch a higher perspective of the flower field, hop on board the wagon tour. This is a great option for those with mobility issues, as you’ll be sitting comfy in a wagon that’s being towed by a tractor.
It’s also a fun activity for little ones and can help them see a good portion of the flower fields before they get tired or lose patience.
Tickets are usually around $8 per adult, and $4 for children (3-10), free for kids under 3. You can purchase tickets on-site, via card.
🌷 NOTE: Other kid-friendly activities include the Sweet Pea Maze and Santa’s Playground
3. Pick Fresh Blueberries
Depending on when you visit, you may have the opportunity to pick fresh blueberries from the ranch’s seasonal blueberry patch.
When you arrive, there will be a sign posted indicating if there are blueberries available for picking.
If there are, you can follow signs to the blueberry stand. There, you’ll be able to purchase a 1-pint (think Ben & Jerry’s Ice cream size) basket for $5.
Then you’ll be able to pick your own farm-fresh blueberries to take home with you until your basket is full!
Just know that the plot is only 2 acres, so there’s a good chance they’ll be all picked if you go later in the season!
4. Explore the Different Gardens
Alongside the main flower field attraction, you’ll also find several gardens! Some of these include the Demonstration Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Illusion Garden.
The Demonstration Garden is a great spot for those looking for inspiration and helpful advice for growing a successful garden. They have little signs that explain eco-friendly practices and how you can create your own sustainable garden in limited space.
And of course, they also actually grow plants in this area. So, you can see how they’ve done it as you read about it.
In the Butterfly Garden, which is admittedly small, you’ll find a bright little landscape that’s packed with flowers, butterfly statues, and colorful butterfly benches.
Meanwhile, the Illusion Garden is meant to make you feel a bit like you’ve been transported into an Alice in Wonderland setting. Once again, it’s fairly tiny, but they do have some oversized chairs.
Both the Butterfly Garden and Illusion Garden are cute spots to spend a few minutes walking through and snapping pictures.
🌷 NOTE: The other gardens available include the Mediterranean Garden and Fountain Garden.
5. Admire the Orchids
The last place I’ll mention stopping by is the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse. Inside this greenhouse, you will find so many gorgeous cymbidium orchids!
I know at some point, most people likely get tired of looking at flowers. But, even after spending the better part of an hour and a half in the flower fields, this was still one of my favorite things to do.
All the orchids are absolutely beautiful to look at, and I honestly enjoyed taking photos of their unique patterns — but that just might be a ‘me’ thing lol.
Anyways, if you like them as much as I did, you can even purchase a plant child at the Armstrong Garden Center, which you’ll pass through as you exit the venue.
🌷 NOTE: They are also known to host events throughout the year. This means yoga sessions, gardening classes, making flower crown workshops, wine tasting, and more. You can view their activity calendar here.
Best Time to Visit Carlsbad Flower Fields
The Carlsbad Flower Fields are open to the public from Wednesday, March 1 to Sunday, May 14. And while, you’re certainly free to go whenever works best for you, there are definitely better times to go.
For example, the first couple of weeks of March is the least busy time to go. This is because the flowers are not fully blooming yet and it’s still pretty cold out. You may even experience a bit of rain and gloom.
Similarly, you can avoid crowds during May as the peak flower season is over. Therefore, people most enthusiastic about visiting the flower fields have most likely already done so.
And what’s nice is that you may even be able to score discounted tickets. The ranch is known to release additional tickets if there’s still a good amount of demand, and the flowers still look attractive!
But, if you want to see when the flower fields truly come alive with vibrant colors, then your best bet is to go during late March or during the month of April.
I personally went the second week of April and it was a stunning sight to see. Everything was flourishing, the weather was pleasant, and it was a delightful day.
That said, it gets pretty crowded during this time of the season, especially if you decide to go during a holiday weekend. So, just keep that in mind when selecting dates.
What is the Best Time of Day to Visit Flower Fields?
As you probably guessed it, if you want to avoid throngs of people, you should try and go during the week. My friend and I went on a Thursday around 2:30 PM and there was hardly anyone — it was amazing.
But, if you can’t visit during the week, my advice is that the best time of day to visit the flower fields is early in the morning.
The ranch opens the flower fields up as early as 9:00 AM. Sure, it may be a little chilly at that time, but you’ll encounter significantly fewer people.
Alternatively, you can opt to go towards the end of the day, after 3:00 PM since a lot of the main crowds will have left by then. Plus they offer a small discount towards the end of the day, which I’ll touch on later on.
Just know that the peak entrance hours are from about 11 AM – 1 PM.
How Much Does It Cost to Go to Carlsbad Flower Fields?
In order to visit the Carlsbad Flower Fields, you’re going to need to purchase a ticket online. The tickets are good for specific entrance times, and there are 450 tickets available for almost every time slot.
Exceptions include the first entrance time at 9:00 AM, which has only 300 tickets, and the last entrance time at 4:30 PM, which has about 150 tickets available.
It’s really important you buy a ticket in advance because you won’t be able to purchase a ticket on-site. Sometimes it gets pretty hectic with all the cars and people, so it’s just easier for them to have everyone pre-purchase their tickets.
They also ask that you arrive within 30 minutes of your time slot. You are free to stay as long as you want, and parking is included with your ticket!
Carlsbad Flower Fields Tickets
Tickets are available for purchase on the official site. I would recommend purchasing your ticket the week you plan on going, so at least a couple of days in advance to secure your desired entrance time.
Prices are as follows with the service fee included
- Adults aged 11- 60: $26.08 USD
- Seniors 60+ / Military: $23.81 USD
- Children aged 3 – 10: $13.61 USD
- Children under 3: FREE
Address: 5704 Paseo Del Norte Carlsbad, CA 92008 (open on Google Maps)
Carlsbad Flower Fields Discount
Also, there are special discounts available on some days if you go during the week.
- Mondays — If you purchase an adult or senior/military, you receive a free child’s (aged 3-10) ticket
- Tuesdays & Wednesdays — Visit between 1:00 pm-4:00 pm, and you’ll receive $2 off adults, seniors/military, and children tickets
What Attractions Are Near the Flower Fields?
If you decide you don’t want to go through the Flower Fields or are simply looking to fill out your itinerary, here are my top recommendations for activities and tours to take!
Delicious Food Tour
One experience that I highly recommend going on is a food tour in Carlsbad Village. It’s a fantastic way to discover the vibrant gourmet culture of this quaint, coastal town.
Over the course of three hours, you’ll get to sample unique specialty dishes at six different locations and even taste award-winning California wines.
And since you’ll be guided by an experienced local who knows the ins and outs of the city, you’ll also gain local insight into the culinary scene, history of the area, and many landmarks!
✅ 🌮 Check availability for this highly-rated delicious food tour
NOTE: If you are staying closer to the downtown San Diego area, there are plenty of foodie excursions in that area as well! You can even do a bit of wine tasting or day trip to the famous Valle de Guadalupe wine region!
Wondrous Whale Watching
If you want to explore the surrounding area by way of water, then I suggest going on a whale-watching tour. This is something my family absolutely loves doing and honestly, witnessing majestic creatures like whales in their natural habitat never ceases to amaze me!☺️
During this popular two-hour ocean excursion, you’ll set sail from Oceanside on a comfortable 50-foot catamaran and cruise along San Diego’s idyllic coastline.
Along the way, you’ll hopefully spot whales and other marine life, such as dolphins, sea lions, and sunfish! But, you never know for sure what’ll you’ll see as wildlife is never predictable…
One thing is for sure though, you’ll be led by a certified naturalist guide who will narrate everything on the trip. Thus, you’ll definitely be able to learn more about the ocean and its inhabitants!
✅ 🐳 Check availability for this awesome whale-watching tour
Try Goat Yoga
Want to experience something truly unique? Consider doing goat yoga while in San Diego! For those who have never tried it, it combines gentle yoga with cute and cuddly goats who wander around while you practice your poses!
This 2-hour, one-of-a-kind activity is just a 20-minute drive away from the flower fields and promises to be both fun and therapeutic. You’ll spend an hour doing light yoga and the other hour hanging out with the other animals around the far!
It’s a great way to stretch your limbs, takes in some fresh air, and capture some cute moments with the friendly goats.
If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, feel free to read my post below. It will give you all the information you need to know!
🐐 Read About Where To Do Goat Yoga in San Diego!
Ride Electric Bikes
For those who want to explore Carlsbad at their own pace and cover more ground than you possibly could walking, opt for a chill electric bike tour!
This is honestly, more of a rental and self-guided tour option, but fun nevertheless! During the 3-hour time frame, you can easily explore several of the beaches and landmarks of Carlsbad, California!
And since you’ll be provided with your own helmet and bike lock, you can take some time to stop wherever catches your eye. Plus, the guys at the rental shop will set you up with clear directions on places that are must-sees in the area!
So, if you’re ready to zip around the quaint towns, like my personal favorite, Encinitas, and have an active but also relaxing time, this is a great option!
✅ 🚲 Check availability for this chill bike tour around Carlsbad!
Surfs Up!
Lastly, with Southern California being home to some of the best waves in all of the United States, it would be an opportunity missed if you didn’t take advantage of them!
Whether you’re an amateur or an expert, there are plenty of surf breaks that are suitable for everyone! In fact, here’s a post with my personally curated list of the best surf spots for beginners to check out in San Diego!
And even if you’re someone who’s always wanted to learn how to surf but didn’t know where to start, you can always take surf lessons!
The instructor provides everything you need and will teach you the fundamentals so you’ll be hanging ten in no time! But most importantly, an expert surf instructor will ensure you’re staying safe!
So, if you’ve been thinking about learning, there’s no better time than the present!
✅ 🏄♀️ Check availability for this amazing surf instructor!
Where to Stay in San Diego
If you’re coming from out of town and looking for places to stay, here are a few recommendations! These are based on where I’ve personally stayed as well as extensive research I’ve conducted (aka reading through tons of reviews).
Low-Costs Stays
- HI San Diego Downtown: 3-star hotel (technically a hostel) | ⭐️ Rating: 8.1 / 10
- Best Western Plus Bayside Inn: 3-star hotel | ⭐️ Rating: 8.8 / 10
Mid-Range Stays
- Sheraton San Diego: 4-star hotel | ⭐️ Rating: 7.6 / 10
- Catamaran Resort & Spa: 4-star resort | ⭐️ Rating: 7.8 / 10
- InterContinental San Diego: 4-star hotel | ⭐️ Rating: 8.8 / 10
Luxury Stays
- The Lodge at Torrey Pines: 5-star hotel | ⭐️ Rating: 8.5 / 10
- Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego: 4-star hotel | ⭐️ Rating: 8.8 / 10
But, if you want to check out other places in San Diego, you can check rates and availability with the buttons below.
Alternatively, you scroll around on the interactive map below. It displays current prices across several booking platforms and will give you up-to-date prices for your trip if you input your dates!
Carlsbad Flower Fields: FAQ
The flower fields at Carlsbad Ranch are open from Wednesday, March 1 to Sunday, May 14 in 2023. In terms of time, you can reserve a ticket for an entrance time between 9 AM and 4:30 PM.
You are welcome whatever you’d like but know that the ground is uneven and there’s a good chance of it getting dirty! Personally, I wore a flowy dress and some sandal-type shoes with thick heels.
You’re definitely gonna want to bring a water bottle and your camera.
If it’s sunny out, I would recommend some sunglasses, wearing lots of sunscreen, and maybe a hat. And for those who are attending later in the day, consider bringing a light jacket since it may get chilly in the evening.
Lastly, I would consider bringing some wet ones wipes or hand sanitizer to clean up if you get dirty.
This obviously depends on how long you want to spend roaming the grounds. My friend and I spent about two hours there. We didn’t do every single activity offered, but we saw a fair bit.
You can see the flower fields for a fleeting moment while driving up along interstate 5 Palomar Airport Road… But, you’re really going to want to pay for an entrance ticket to actually enjoy the flower fields for more than 5 seconds.
Wrap-Up: Are the Carlsbad Flower Fields Worth It? (2023)
Every year, the stunning Carlsbad Flower Fields becomes one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state.
With its vibrant blooms, picturesque scenery, and perfect weather, it’s the ideal place for a leisurely day trip or romantic afternoon outing, especially if you’ve never been before!
That said, if you’ve been before or are looking for something that involves a bit more action, it may be better to opt for a different activity in Carlsbad.
Either way, I hope this post has been helpful in determining whether visiting the Flower Fields is right for you and that you have the best time visiting the San Diego region!
Read More About the United States
- Want to explore more of Southern California’s diverse landscape? Head to beautiful Palm Springs, which is a green oasis in the middle of a dry desert region.
- Want an island getaway in a destination that’s more remote than Hawai’i? Consider making your next vacation in Guam — it’s a US territory!
- Planning on visiting Las Vegas? Red Rock Canyon is only a 20-minute drive away and offers incredible desert landscapes that can be enjoyed via bike, car, or even on horseback!
