Where serene paddling meets bold brewing
The Earning
Carlsbad is more than just a hotspot for surfing and ocean sports — it also offers a tranquil escape for paddling in the serene backwaters of Agua Hedionda Lagoon. This 400-acre coastal wetland is a vital sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife, including several endangered species.
The water here is brackish, a mix of salt from the sea and fresh water from local creeks, with tides influencing salt levels. This tidal action creates a food-rich environment, attracting a variety of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Mudflats along the edges shift with each tide, providing ideal feeding grounds for migratory birds.
For those interested in yoga, Agua Hedionda Lagoon is also one of the San Diego region’s favored spots for SUP yoga. The calm waters provide a perfect backdrop for this tranquil experience. 
If you’re bringing your own equipment, a non-motorized launch area off Bayshore Drive offers a convenient spot to start your paddle.
Need to rent a kayak or paddleboard? California Watersports provides a wide array of rentals right on the shores of the lagoon. After launching, follow the buoy system to avoid motorized zones and paddle into the quieter reaches for some solitude. As you glide across the lagoon, keep an eye out for waterfowl, crabs, bat rays, and — if you’re lucky — a rare sighting of green sea turtles.
The Beer
Carlsbad boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with several independent breweries to explore. While iconic names like Pizza Port Brewing Company and Karl Strauss Brewing Company are well-known, a short drive inland reveals hidden gems worth discovering.
Carlsbad Brewing Company offers a laid-back, no-frills vibe, with an atmosphere that says, “We make beer here.” The spacious, airy setup includes outdoor seating and a tap list featuring over 300 beers from around the world — specializing in European and Belgian styles. They also pour local favorites, including rotating regional brews and a reliably on-tap Pliny the Elder. carlsbadbrewingco.beer
Burgeon Beer Company is another local favorite, known for standout brews and a strong commitment to sustainability. A member of 1% for the Planet, Burgeon is the first brewery to earn SeaTrees’ Ocean+Positive certification and also holds The Climate Label certification, recognizing their efforts to put a price on carbon emissions. The taproom features a regular food truck lineup. burgeonbeer.com
Sharing a similar commitment to sustainability, Pure Project holds The Climate Label certification and is a member of 1% for the Planet. They also support grassroots organizations like The Conservation Alliance, WILDCOAST, and Coastal Roots Farm. Known for “murky” beers — their take on hazy IPAs — they’ve earned multiple Great American Beer Festival (GABF) awards and U.S. Open medals. Their crisp, floral pilsner Rain is another standout. All of their beers are brewed with a focus on sustainable and organic sourcing. purebrewing.org
Docent Brewing, a newer addition to the Carlsbad scene, has quickly made a name for itself. Originally founded in San Juan Capistrano, their Carlsbad outpost — near Pizza Port in Carlsbad Village — turns a converted cottage into a lively hub. Docent has earned multiple GABF awards, including two golds for its Super Tonic coffee stout. docentbrewing.com
