There’s something incredibly special about returning to a place that holds so many cherished memories. Over a decade ago, I said "I do" at the Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad. That day was unforgettable—and returning now with my kids brings a whole new level of joy and nostalgia. I may be a little partial, but this hotel continues to live up to everything I loved about it then… and more.
The Room
We stayed in a standard king room with a pull-out couch—plenty of space for our family. The room was beautifully appointed, and we were thrilled to be upgraded to a pool view. Every room comes with a private balcony, perfect for soaking in the serene views of Carlsbad. The bathroom was spacious and luxurious, complete with Le Labo products (which are always a treat!).
Dining at Pacific Point
Our first night we dined at Pacific Point, the hotel’s elegant yet relaxed lobby restaurant. We opted for a table on the balcony and were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a wedding happening below on the lawn—a full-circle moment for me! The restaurant offers a delicious selection of small plates, ideal for sharing with the whole table. There was a live musician playing, which added the perfect soundtrack to our evening. After dinner, we headed down to the fire pits where we roasted s’mores (kits available at the onsite Bodega)—a family favorite!
Poolside Fun
We spent both days at the pool, which was a total highlight for the kids. The two waterslides were a huge hit, and the pool staff couldn’t have been more helpful. They even hosted a hula hoop contest—and yes, my daughter won! The energy was fun, the service top-notch, and it never felt overcrowded or chaotic. Just easy, sun-soaked family fun.
Don’t forget sunscreen! I brought along my favorite sun protection essentials. Shop it All Here
Ember & Rye Dinner
For our second night, we celebrated my daughter’s birthday with dinner at Ember & Rye, Richard Blais’ signature steakhouse located on the Aviara Golf Course. We took the hotel shuttle down, which made the evening stress-free. The food? Absolutely phenomenal. The ambiance? Elegant and scenic, with views of the rolling green fairways and golden hour light. Highly recommend it for a special occasion.
Breakfast Options
For breakfast, you can dine at Ponto Lago, which offers both a breakfast buffet and upscale evening dining. However, we opted for a more casual (and delicious!) off-property favorite: Beach Plum Kichen, just down the road. It’s affordable, quick, and always a hit with the kids.
Family- and Pet-Friendly Perks
Park Hyatt Aviara truly knows how to cater to families. There’s a kids arcade, regular family-friendly activities like animal shows, and plenty of open grass for little ones to run around. We also noticed how many dogs were staying at the hotel—it's very dog-friendly, and it was so fun to see pups lounging with their owners all around the property. If you’re traveling with your furry friend, this is a huge plus!
And if you're looking to relax, the Miraval Spa on site is a serene escape. My husband got a day pass to use the spa amenities, and he left feeling completely refreshed.
If you’re looking for a luxurious but not stuffy escape in San Diego County, the Park Hyatt Aviara is an unbeatable choice. It’s perfect for families, couples, dog lovers, or anyone looking to unwind in style. And if you're a World of Hyatt member, you can even use your points to book your stay.
For me, it was more than just a vacation—it was a beautiful blend of old memories and new ones. And I already can’t wait to go back.
