The Green Room Guide to Carlsbad Village

Just a short bike ride up the coast from The Green Room Hotel, Carlsbad Village offers a walkable blend of surf-town charm, independent shops, and a growing food scene that's made it one of North County's most-loved neighborhoods. Carlsbad Village leans into a slightly more polished, classic SoCal vibe, without sacrificing the laid-back beach culture we love. Whether you're heading up for a lazy brunch, boutique crawl, or golden hour stroll, here's how we'd do a day in the Village.

First Stop: Coffee

The day starts best with caffeine, and Carlsbad Village delivers. Steady State Roasting remains our top pick. Just a few blocks inland, this minimalist café is tucked behind an industrial facade, but don't let that fool you — it's one of the best roasters in North County. Known for their award-winning single-origin coffees, thoughtful pour-overs, and creative espresso drinks, Steady State is a must for anyone serious about their caffeine.

Closer to the heart of the Village, Lofty Coffee offers a spacious patio, a full menu of breakfast items, and consistently good lattes made with house-roasted beans. It's a go-to spot for a slow morning or a mid-shop pick-me-up.

Stroll the Village

Carlsbad Village is small but brimming with independent boutiques that reflect the casual-elegant, coastal spirit of the neighborhood. Start your stroll at Rebel Villa, a boho-inspired gift and home décor shop filled with artisan-made candles, woven textiles, and minimalist beach accents—perfect for a thoughtful souvenir or something to elevate your Airbnb back home. Just up the road, Cielo Boutique & Body Bar offers a calming, wellness-forward shopping experience with racks of flowy dresses, clean beauty products, and locally made jewelry that fits the North County aesthetic. If you're looking for something a little more unexpected, Village Rock Shop has a mix of crystals, incense, ocean-themed trinkets, and quirky cards that are ideal for last-minute gifts or a little self-indulgence. And for those more drawn to skate and surf culture, Status Skateshop is the real deal, stocking everything from decks and wheels to limited-edition streetwear and gear. Even if you're not skating this trip, it's a fun stop to get a sense of the local scene.

Midday Bites

When hunger hits, you've got options. For a quick and healthy stop, Choice Juicery offers acai bowls, smoothies, and plant-based bites with zero filler and lots of flavor. Their outdoor tables are ideal for people-watching and sunshine.

Craving something more indulgent? Campfire is one of Carlsbad's best restaurants, and worth a reservation if you want a full sit-down experience. It's built around live-fire cooking, so expect grilled meats, wood-roasted veggies, and house cocktails that are anything but ordinary. If you're coming from the beach, opt for lunch at their sister spot, Jeune et Jolie, a modern French bistro that somehow manages to be chic and unpretentious.

Grab a Craft Beer (or Wine, or Mocktail)

Carlsbad is home to some serious craft beer history. The original Pizza Port is right in the Village and always worth a stop — the surf stickers, community tables, and greasy slices scream classic North County. If you want something a little more elevated, walk a few blocks to Pure Project Carlsbad. It's a sustainably focused brewery known for small-batch IPAs and crisp lagers, with a warm industrial space and plenty of indoor/outdoor flow.

Not into beer? Carruth Cellars has a relaxed urban tasting room where you can try SoCal-made wines by the flight or glass—their sparkling white hits exceptionally well after a salty beach walk.

Catch the Sunset

No matter what time of year you're here, the Carlsbad coastline comes alive at golden hour. Walk west from the Village and grab a spot on the seawall or the beach itself. Tamarack State Beach is the closest break — just a few minutes' drive from The Green Room — and always a good call for a mellow sunset session or a shoreline stroll.

Getting There and Back

From The Green Room Hotel, Carlsbad Village is just a 5-minute drive, or a 15-minute beach cruiser ride up Pacific Coast Highway. If you're in no rush, cruise the Strand along the water before cutting over to the Village. There's metered street parking and a few free lots, but on weekends it fills up fast — another reason we recommend going by bike.

Stay Local, Explore Coastal

One of the best parts of staying at The Green Room is having easy access to both Oceanside's energy and Carlsbad's charm. Spend your mornings surfing and grabbing tacos in South O, then cruise up to the Village for a bit of shopping, sipping, and sunset. It's all right here — and it's all very North County. Book your stay at the Green Room Hotel and start planning your North County adventure.