Agua Hedionda Lagoon
Carlsbad, CA
Agua Hedionda Lagoon has a path along the water from Carlsbad Boulevard to the railroad tracks, with the Encina Fishing Area's jetty nearby for shore fishing. It's a genuine break from the open coast, a sheltered lagoon walk worth pairing with a stop at the beach just across the highway.
A genuinely peaceful lagoon walk and real fishing spot, a quieter complement to Carlsbad's beaches nearby.
How we score beachesThe jetty at the Encina Fishing Area is a real, functioning shore-fishing spot if that's part of the plan.
On-street parking near Garfield St.
Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved recreation path and pocket parks around Agua Hedionda Lagoon, but are not allowed on the beach itself.
San Diego County's water climbs into the upper 60s and low 70s by late summer, the most comfortable window for swimming.
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