Some travelers recommended the Legoland Hotel for its proximity to the park and its appeal to children, although it can be pricey during high season, approaching $700 per night for larger families. For a more budget-friendly option, the Ocean Palms Beach Resort, Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort, and Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach were mentioned as affordable choices under $250 per night in March. These properties offer convenient access to local dining and beach areas.

For visitors looking for alternatives to traditional hotels, some users suggested staying in suite hotels like Homewood Suites, Home2Suites, Residence Inn, or SpringHill Suites, which are ideal for larger groups or families. These accommodations typically offer more space and are conducive to longer stays. Additionally, there are vacation rentals in the area, though options with a private pool are limited.

According to forum posts, the drive from San Diego to Legoland typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the starting location within San Diego. For instance, starting from Mission Valley around 9:00 AM on a weekday should take about 30 minutes as you're going against the primary flow of traffic.

Some travelers have indicated that using public transportation like the Coaster train could connect you from San Diego to Carlsbad. However, the schedule primarily caters to weekday commuters, so it's essential to check the schedule for exact times if considering this option.

Some travelers recommended Tip Top Meats for its German cuisine and sizable portions, and Casa Bandini for its lively ambiance with mariachi music. Both restaurants are highlighted for their unique dining experiences.

According to forum posts, seafood lovers can visit Harbor Fish Cafe or Blue Water Grill for fresh seafood dishes. For a broader menu, Campfire and Beach Break Cafe are also popular, with Pizza Port offering a variety beyond just pizza.

Travelers have called out Chins Chinese for Chinese cuisine located in the Village area of Carlsbad, providing a good option for those looking for Asian flavors.

For moderately priced dining, users have mentioned enjoying the meals at Le Papagayo and Nick's, both located in the downtown area, suggesting a good mix of affordability and quality.

Vigilucci's was noted for its ambiance and dining experience, especially if cost is not a primary concern, making it a fine dining option in Carlsbad.