The luxe Park Hyatt Aviara Resort features Spanish colonial architecture and a picturesque setting just north of the Batiquitos Lagoon wildlife sanctuary. This property was formerly a Four Seasons, and the switch from one luxury brand to another didn't impact the hotel's luxurious ambiance. The 329 guest rooms are clean and spacious with classic decor, modern amenities, and large balconies. There are several on-site restaurant options. Though an adults-only pool and spa are attractive for couples, the hotel is mostly popular with families who stay here while visiting nearby Legoland. Most guests aren't happy to be charged for required valet parking on top of a daily resort fee.

The 246-room luxury condominium complex is more a residence than a hotel, with two "neighborhoods,” each with its own heated outdoor pool and well-equipped fitness center. The vibe is laid-back and expansive grounds are filled with greenery and beautiful landscaping. Spacious villas are outfitted in pleasant contemporary decor and offer the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens, large living rooms, and washers and dryers. There’s a farm-to-table restaurant on-site, as well as two cafes and poolside snack bars, plus a stylish spa with a nail salon. Families with kids will find plenty to do here, with children’s pools, a kids’ club, and various organized activities. There’s not much within walking distance though, so a car is necessary. Travelers might also want to consider the nearby Park Hyatt Aviara Resort.

This 400-acre, 611-room megaresort near Legoland is packed with family features, including large rooms, six pools with waterslides, and an impressive kids club. The spa, golf courses, tennis courts, and on-site shopping help ensure adults have fun as well, but there are extra fees for almost everything.

Cape Rey Carlsbad, a Hilton Resort, is an upscale, chain resort within a short walk of a sandy stretch of beach. The hotel has a posh, modern vibe and 250 clean, comfortable rooms, some with ocean-facing balconies. There isn’t much within walking distance, but there’s a restaurant on-site and live musical entertainment on the weekends. The hotel has several amenities for adults and children, including an outdoor pool and children’s pool with sea views, a fitness center, and a chic spa. Thoughtful touches include free sand buckets for children. However, there are lots of extra fees, including a resort fee, beach chair rental fee, and parking fee. Travelers may want to also consider the Beach Terrace Inn Carlsbad, a boutique-style inn with a private beach that includes breakfast and parking but has higher rates.

Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa is a four-pearl resort with its own private entrance to Legoland. The 250 rooms are clean and spacious with microwaves and Starbucks coffee, but there’s a fee for microwaves. In fact, the resort has a number of additional fees that may make guests feel nickel and dimed, including a resort fee, a fee for breakfast, and another fee for parking. There’s plenty for families to do at the upscale chain resort, including a 24-hour heated outdoor pool and whirlpool and a number of games including billiards, ping-pong, foosball, and shuffleboard. The hotel has a grill and bar on-site with outdoor seating, and during the summer there’s a free shuttle to the beach. Families wanting to be even more engulfed in the Lego experience should check out rates at LEGOLAND California Hotel, a colorful Lego-themed hotel located inside the park.