Visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields
The Carlsbad Flower Fields
One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to is The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. The Flower Fields show off the beauty of nature in a truly epic way. The endless rows of flowers create a sea of brilliant colors on the 50-acre lot that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. I’ve been coming to the Carlsbad Flower Fields for the past several years and its extraordinary beauty never ceases to amaze me.
History of The Flower Fields
An early settler and horticulturist, Luther Gage settled in the area in the early 1920’s. Gage brought Ranunculus seeds and began growing them in his fields next to a small vegetable farm in South Oceanside owned by a man named Frank Frazee. In 1933, Frank Frazee also began growing ranunculus and introduced his son Edwin to the art of seeding, cultivating and irrigating the flower.
In 1965, Edwin Frazee moved the ranunculus and gladiolus growing operation to the current site, where the land was owned by the Ecke Family of Encinitas. Paul Ecke Jr. and Edwin were both flower farmers, which helped them form a strong bond. Years later, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch was born! Read full history here.
Best time to Visit the Carlsbad Flower Fields
The Carlsbad Flower Fields are open each year from early March to early May. The best time to go is mid-April as the flowers are usually in full bloom and the most vibrant.
In March, the days can be a bit overcast, which is not the best for a photo op. And in May since it is the end of the season, the flowers begin to wilt.
Attractions
In addition to the the stunning 50 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus, there are also several other attractions inside The Flower Fields. Guests can enjoy an antique tractor ride through the radiant fields while a guide gives a more in-depth look into the history of The Flower Fields.
Other attractions include the American Flag of Flowers, The Artist Gardens, Carlsbad Mining Company, Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse, Historic Poinsettia Display, Organic Demonstration Garden, Sweet Pea Maze and Water Wise Farming.
Hours & Directions
9 a.m. – 6 p.m. The season is open from early March to early May each year.
Address and Driving Directions
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, CA 92008
From San Diego:
Head North on Interstate 5 to Palomar Airport Road exit. Head East (right turn) on Palomar Airport Road. Go one block to Paseo Del Norte and turn left. Make an immediate right into the parking lot.
From the Inland Empire and East San Diego County:
Take Interstate 15 to Highway 78 West. Continue on 78 to Interstate 5 South. Take Interstate 5 South to Palomar Airport Road exit. Head East (left turn) on Palomar Airport Road to Paseo Del Norte and turn left. Make an immediate right into the parking lot.
From Los Angeles and Orange County
Head South on Interstate 5 to Palomar Airport Road exit. Head east (left turn) on Palomar Airport Road to Paseo Del Norte and turn left. Make an immediate right into the parking lot.
