Everything about our stay was perfect! Very nice hotel, large comfortable rooms, uber clean. Ian and his staff went out of their way to accomodate our large group, and everyone was very happy! Would absolutely stay here again, and will look for other Homewood Suites in other cities.

There was 3 adults and 3 kids (4,6,8), we stayed in a 2 king bedroom suite- (grandma had her own bedroom, husband and I had our own and our 3 kids had the livingroom area with pullout couch, a great kitchen area, 2 bathrooms(time saver in the morning and evening). A great free breakfast - lots to choose from hot (oatmeal, waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage etc.. switched up every day or cold - bagels, cereal, bread, muffins, fruit, yogurt). We also took advantage of the free suppers mon-thurs with free beer and wine 5pm-7pm. Everyday was something different and posted in your room the menu - it was enough to eat and keep some extra easy stuff in your room (with fridge and microwave) if there is someone still hungry or didnt like the food - but you save lots of money if you can do this. There is other options to eat at - mostly 10 mins away. Legoland and sea life 5 min drive, seaworld and zoo - 1/2 hour, beach 10 mins. LA - 2 hours (we did tar pits, car museum and pirate dinner) - (but really depends on traffic and time of day).
Bontanical Gardens - 15 mins (beautiful place with lots to look at and see all kinds of fruit, plants, flowers, herbs from around the world. We were there for 10 nights.

We've tried vacation rentals for our visits to SoCal grandkids, but over the years, we've yet to find the perfect VRBO unit in Carlsbad. So, we keep coming back to our favorite -- Homewood Suites. The downside is the proximity to Legoland. On the holidays, this place is jammed full of families with small children. But, that's also the upside for adults. Most of the parents don't have time for workouts, so we use the excellent fitness room while they're having breakfast. The place clears out during the day while the families visit Legoland or the zoo, leaving the pool, laundry, and other amenities free for us. If you really don't want to be around kids when you travel, this place is not for you. But, we've found it suits our needs perfectly.

An excellent hotel, offering very friendly service. The rooms are clean and look brand new and the complimentary breakfast is very good, catering for all tastes. If I am back in Carlsbad again, this is where I'd stay.