Top Carlsbad Sightseeing Tours

Set sail from Oceanside during a whale watching excursion led by a certified naturalist guide. Board a comfortable 50-foot (15-meter) catamaran with covered areas for seating and cruise along San Diego’s coastline to spot whales and other marine life, getting as close as possible without disturbing them. Plus, choose from multiple departures to easily fit this whale watching tour into your schedule.

Savor the distinctive flavors of Carlsbad Village with a food and walking tour of the scenic seaside gem. Get an insider’s look at the culinary scene, local history, and landmarks as you explore with knowledgeable guides and enjoy six gourmet tastings. Sample luscious desserts and unique specialty foods, and season your experience with behind-the-scenes stories about Carlsbad Village’s vibrant gourmet culture, hippest restaurants, and cutting-edge artisanal products.

Looking for a whale watching tour that’s fast, personal, and unforgettable? At O’side Whales, we keep our groups small—just 6 passengers—so every seat is the best seat. Our speedy, stable boat covers more ocean, meaning more chances to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Whether you’re a wildlife lover or just looking for an epic ocean adventure, this is the experience you don’t want to miss. Book now and see the sea like never before!

Follow the development of Carlsbad from its founding in the 1880s to its evolution into a beloved coastal destination, on this self guided walking tour. Along the way, longtime San Diego residents Mindy and Jerry will tell you the village’s story of transformation. You’ll learn how Captain John Frazier’s discovery of mineral water remarkably similar to that of Karlsbad, Bohemia gave the town both its name and its early identity as a health retreat. Explore how the arrival of the railroad, Highway 101, and eventually Interstate 5 shaped the community and its character. The 90 minute tour starts at the Army and Navy Academy, from where you’ll weave through the heart of the village, stroll tree lined streets, past boutiques and cafés before reaching the Pacific shoreline, where seven miles of coastline have drawn visitors for generations. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or a local looking to see Carlsbad in a new light, this tour will transport you through time.

We set sail on a 45 foot, teak filled sailing yacht- Named, Song of David. One of the largest and most comfortable sailboats in the Oceanside harbor. We cater to guests from many of the five star hotels in the area. We serve an upscale experience with Charcuterie and Champagne as an option. Ask about our three and four hour extended experiences. We set sail and begin looking for dolphins and whales. The bow of the boat has been fitted with a special dolphin seat so that you can actually sit over the top of the playful dolphins below. The memories gained abord the Song of David will last a lifetime.

Our local guides are born and raised locally and know all the best destinations in the area! We look forward to showing you all the beautiful attractions our area has to offer. Our electric bike are high powered 750w motors with 5 levels of pedal assist.

Visit four highlight towns in North San Diego County—and immerse yourself in the region’s beachy, laidback vibes—on this private, half-day tour. Pick between morning and afternoon departure times, grab your helmets and e-bikes, and set off. You’ll visit Del Mar, Solana Beach, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and Encinitas; will discover highlights like the Del Mar Racetrack and the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve; and will learn more about the area from your guide’s insider commentary.

Explore the stunning Pacific waters with a private sailing charter in Oceanside, California. Enjoy a customizable sailing adventure tailored to your pace and interests, guided by a friendly, USCG licensed captain. Ideal for families or small groups, this intimate experience allows you to connect with the ocean while creating lasting memories. Sailing trips are designed for up to 6 guests, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to escape the crowded tours. - Private sailing charters for up to 6 guests - Tailored experiences with a local captain - Perfect for families seeking a memorable adventure - Depart from Oceanside Harbor, flexible duration available

The Private group food tours in Carlsbad are great for friends and family celebrations: Anniversaries, birthdays or bachelorette parties. Highlights on the Food Tour: Savory Dishes: Taste a variety of local specialties, each bite offering a unique flavor that represents the culinary diversity of Carlsbad. Local History and Culture: Gain insights into Carlsbad’s rich history and cultural heritage as you stroll through the city, guided by knowledgeable locals. Art and Architecture: Appreciate the local art scene and architectural beauty that add to the charm of Carlsbad.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Encinitas This private tour includes tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. Ideal for families, friends, or team outings. Begin with sweeping coastal views from Mount Soledad, then visit La Jolla Cove to see sea lions and tide pools. Continue to Old Town San Diego to explore adobe buildings and California’s early history, followed by a lunch break (meals not included) at Seaport Village on the bay. Next, enjoy a narrated drive through the Gaslamp Quarter, filled with tales of Wyatt Earp and the city’s Wild West roots. Cross the Coronado Bridge for incredible views and stop at the iconic Hotel del Coronado. Cruise down Orange Avenue before returning via Balboa Park and Little Italy, with its cafés and historic charm.

Sip, Savor, and Explore Temecula Wine Country Departing from Carlsbad, this full-day private wine tour offers a relaxing escape to Temecula Valley. With tiered pricing, the larger your group, the lower the per-person cost—ideal for couples, friends, or small groups. Pickup is available from your Carlsbad hotel, vacation rental, or at Carlsbad Village Station. Begin with free time in Old Town Temecula for coffee or shopping. Then enjoy tastings and a guided production tour at Somerset Vineyard & Winery, followed by tastings, charcuterie, and a wine cave tour at Oak Mountain Winery. Lunch is at Cougar Winery (Mon–Fri) or Bel Vino Winery (Sat). Meals and tastings not included. End with a final tasting at Callaway Winery, a sleek hilltop estate with panoramic vineyard views. Travel in comfort with a friendly guide and let us handle the details for a smooth, scenic day in wine country.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Del Mar This private tour features tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. Perfect for families, friends, or corporate outings. Begin your day atop Mount Soledad with sweeping coastal views, then explore La Jolla Cove’s sea cliffs, tide pools, and sunbathing sea lions. In Old Town San Diego, stroll through adobe buildings and historic plazas before stopping for lunch along the waterfront at Seaport Village (meals not included). Cruise through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares stories of its Wild West roots. Cross the Coronado Bridge to the legendary Hotel del Coronado, then enjoy a scenic drive down Orange Avenue. Pass Balboa Park’s museums and gardens, and end with a cruise through Little Italy—a lively district filled with cafés, charm, and bay views. Pickup is available from Del Mar hotels or the Solana Beach Station.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Solana Beach This private tour includes tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the larger your group, the lower the per-person rate. Ideal for families, friends, or corporate outings. Begin your day with panoramic views atop Mount Soledad, then head to La Jolla Cove to spot sea lions along the cliffs. Stroll the historic plazas of Old Town San Diego before enjoying lunch along the scenic Embarcadero at Seaport Village (meals not included). Cruise through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares stories of its Wild West past, then cross the sweeping Coronado Bridge for unforgettable views of the bay. Stop at the iconic Hotel del Coronado, then drive scenic Orange Avenue. Pass through Balboa Park’s gardens and Spanish Revival architecture, and finish with a drive through Little Italy—known for its lively charm and bayfront atmosphere. A full day of SoCal’s best, with hotel pickup included.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Carlsbad This private tour offers tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. Ideal for families, friends, or corporate outings. Your day begins with a stop at Mount Soledad, offering panoramic views from La Jolla to Mexico. Next, stroll the shoreline at La Jolla Cove, where sea lions bask on the rocks and tide pools dot the coast. Continue to Old Town San Diego to explore adobe buildings, museums, and historic plazas. Break for lunch (meals not included) along the Embarcadero waterfront at Seaport Village. Then drive through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares stories of its Wild West days. Cross the iconic Coronado Bridge for a scenic drive and a stop at Hotel del Coronado before returning via charming Orange Avenue. You'll also pass through Balboa Park and Little Italy—blending culture, scenery, and history into one unforgettable San Diego day.

Hike and e-bike through North San Diego County, and stop in places like Solana Beach, Annie’s Canyon Trail, Encinitas, and Cardiff by-the-Sea. Both children’s and adult bikes are available, as well as child seats for bikes, so bring the entire family along. Your guides can also tell you about the best places to grab local cuisine, surf spots, art galleries, and a lot more. You can also customize this tour just as you like.

Sip, Savor, and Explore Temecula Wine Country Departing from Encinitas, this full-day private wine tour offers a relaxing, scenic escape into Temecula Valley—no long drive or planning needed. With tiered pricing for up to 14 guests, the larger your group, the lower the per-person cost—perfect for couples, friends, or small gatherings. Begin with free time in historic Old Town Temecula for coffee, boutique browsing, or the Saturday farmers market. Then visit Somerset Vineyard & Winery for tastings and a guided production tour, followed by Oak Mountain Winery for tastings, a charcuterie board, and a tour of their underground wine cave. Lunch is at Cougar Winery (Mon–Fri) or Bel Vino Winery (Sat), with vineyard views and casual menus (meals and tastings not included). Finish at Callaway Winery, where a final tasting and sweeping vineyard views complete the day. Relax and enjoy—your guide handles the rest.

Sip, Savor, and Explore Temecula Wine Country Your tiered pricing makes group travel even better—the larger your group, the lower the per-person rate. This private tour is ideal for couples, friends, or groups of up to 14 guests. Departing from Solana Beach, this full-day guided tour begins with a comfortable ride to the vineyards of Temecula Valley. First, enjoy free time in Old Town Temecula for coffee, shops, or the Saturday farmers market. Then visit Somerset Vineyard & Winery for tastings and a guided production tour, followed by Oak Mountain Winery with tastings, optional charcuterie, and a tour of their underground wine cave. On Saturdays, enjoy live music and lunch (meals not included) at Bel Vino Winery, and wrap up with a final tasting at Callaway Winery, known for sweeping views. Relax, sip, and savor—book your Private Temecula Wine Tour from Solana Beach today for an unforgettable day in the Wine Valley.

Sip, Savor, and Explore Temecula Wine Country Departing from Del Mar, this full-day private wine tour offers a relaxing escape into Temecula Valley. With tiered pricing for up to 14 guests, the larger your group, the lower the per-person cost—perfect for couples or small groups. Begin with pickup from your Del Mar hotel, rental, or the Solana Beach Station. Enjoy free time in Old Town Temecula for coffee, shops, or the farmers market (Saturdays). Then, visit Somerset Vineyard & Winery for tastings and a guided production tour, followed by Oak Mountain Winery for wine, charcuterie, and a walk through their wine cave. Lunch is at Cougar Winery (Mon–Fri) or Bel Vino Winery (Sat). Meals and tastings not included. Finish at Callaway Winery with tastings and panoramic views. Ride in comfort, enjoy beautiful scenery, and let our guides handle the rest for a smooth and memorable day in wine country.

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Oceanside This private tour features tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. Ideal for families, friends, or corporate outings. Begin your day at Mount Soledad for sweeping coastal views, then explore sea lions and tide pools at La Jolla Cove. Step back in time in Old Town San Diego with adobe landmarks and vibrant plazas. Enjoy lunch (meals not included) at Seaport Village on the waterfront. Cruise through the historic Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares tales of Wyatt Earp and the Wild West era. Cross the scenic Coronado Bridge to visit the iconic Hotel del Coronado and drive down charming Orange Avenue. Finish with drive-through views of Balboa Park’s cultural landmarks and Little Italy’s bayfront charm. With hotel pickup, expert narration, and a curated mix of history, scenery, and city life—it’s the perfect way to experience San Diego in a day.

Large Sailing Yacht and Adventure. We look for Whales and Dolphins, as well as a visit to our local seal lion colony . Our boat has a special bow seat that allows lucky guests to sit out overhanging the bow to possibly sit over the playful dolphins or just fell like you are hovering over the water. On warm summer days we break out the tow behind and allow guests to jump in and sit out on the moving swim pad. The adventure lasts four hours and our small Oceanside harbor allows us to be out on the open Pacific Ocean within minutes. If you are looking for Fun things to do in San Diego and are a bit adventurous... You have Found it! Snacks like fine cheese and crackers and grapes are included. Guests are welcome to bring your own food and drink. Alcoholic beverages are acceptable to bring as well. Wonderful life memories made here, aboard our beautiful 45 Foot Sailing Yacht, Song of David. Groups greater that six people are encouraged to call.

Sip, Savor, and Explore Temecula Wine Country Departing from Leucadia, this full-day private wine tour offers a relaxed and scenic escape into Southern California’s wine country. With tiered pricing for up to 14 guests, the larger your group, the lower the per-person cost—perfect for couples, friends, or small gatherings. Your journey begins with a quick stop in Old Town Temecula for coffee, shopping, or the Saturday farmers market. Then enjoy tastings and a guided production tour at Somerset Vineyard & Winery, followed by Oak Mountain Winery—featuring tastings, charcuterie, and the region’s only underground wine cave. Lunch takes place at Cougar Winery (Mon–Fri) or Bel Vino Winery (Sat), both offering vineyard views and casual menus (meals and tastings not included). End your tour at Callaway Winery, with sweeping views and standout wines from their hilltop estate. Let our expert guides handle the details while you enjoy wine, scenery, and a comfortable ride from coastal Leucadia.

Skip the long drive and take flight on an unforgettable day trip from San Diego to Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim. In just under two hours, soar directly from Palomar Airport to one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Upon landing, hop into a custom Hummer for a guided ground tour led by a local expert who brings the landscape’s history to life. Want to see even more? Add an optional helicopter ride to witness the canyon’s vast beauty from the air (extra fee). This VIP experience is designed for comfort, speed, and impact—depart in the morning and be back in San Diego by dinner time, with memories to last a lifetime.

Sip, Savor, and Explore Temecula Wine Country Departing from Oceanside, this full-day private wine tour blends convenience with charm. With tiered pricing for up to 14 guests, the larger your group, the lower the per-person cost—perfect for couples, friends, or small groups. Begin your day in historic Old Town Temecula, where you'll browse local shops and visit the Temecula Olive Oil Company. Then enjoy tastings at Somerset Vineyard & Winery and Oak Mountain Winery, home to the region’s only underground wine cave. Lunch follows at Cougar Winery (Mon–Fri) or Bel Vino Winery (Sat), with scenic views and optional food and wine (not included). Conclude at Callaway Winery, known for its hilltop vistas and elegant tasting room. Ride in comfort with a local guide and let us handle the logistics for an unforgettable day in wine country.