Carlsbad Lagoon Marina is a one-stop destination for all things fun to do on a day out on the water. Three stunning lagoons covering over 1000 acres are in Carlsbad, Aqua Hedionda, Batiquitos, and Buena Vista. Water sports are only allowed at Aqua Hedionda Lagoon.
The Snug Harbor Marina sits snugly within the inner side of the Aqua Hedionda Lagoon, opposite the Pacific Ocean, and covers around 66 acres. The Marina offers a wide range of water-based activities for every age group. There is also a small snack bar, a beach area, and picnic tables.
Activities at Carlsbad Lagoon
Snug Harbor is a haven for non-motorized watersports. Kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, Aqua cycles, or lazing in inflatable tubes! And if you have young kids, you can always rent a Swan pedal boat for some added fun! Rent by the hour, half-day, or a full day.
Motorized Rentals
Plenty of motorized rentals are available at Carlsbad Lagoon. Six-passenger Bayliners, eight-passenger pontoon boats, and two-person powered catamarans. The choices are pretty varied. Non-motorized water sports are allowed in the inland part of the Lagoon; motorized boats are restricted to areas away from the lagoon.
Bring Your Paddleboard
Visitors must have a city permit to be on the Lagoon. Dasy use Licenses are available at Carlsbad Lagoon Marina. There is also a launch fee. There is a free launch area at the public beach on Bayshore drive. However, you will still need the city permit.
Remember that you need to be over 21 years of age for some of the motorized rentals. And, of course, gas and life vests are included. Watersports rentals are for a maximum of 8 hours. It’s best to book a rental online during the summer to avoid disappointment when you get to the Marina.
Carlsbad Lagoon History
Before the Spanish explorers arrived, the native American Luiseño people had a thriving village at Agua Hedionda Lagoon. After Mission San Luis Rey was established in nearby Oceanside, the land around the Lagoon became ranchland.
Carlsbad Lagoon was dredged and opened to the sea in 1954. Before the dredging, the Lagoon was open to the Pacific Ocean. The power station along the southern shore uses ocean water for cooling and pays for dredging every few years.
Carlsbad Lagoon Marina is easily accessible off Interstate 5 via the Tamarack Road Exit. Address: 4215 Harrison St, Carlsbad. Website.
