Beautiful hotel with convenient access to I-5 Freeway, Carlsbad Beaches, and LEGOLANDThe modern Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach is located near I-5, just 30 miles north of San Diego. Our location offers convenient access to Carlsbad Flower Fields, Oceanside Pier, South Carlsbad State Beach, Del Mar Fairgrounds & Racetrack and Legoland! If you’re coming for business, we are only a few miles from many corporate business parks including Thermo Fisher, Philips, Siemens, Adidas-Taylor Made, ViaSat, Callaway Golf, and Camp Pendleton.Throughout your stay, take advantage of our enhanced amenities at no additional cost including a healthy Express Start breakfast, our top-of-the-line Wi-Fi bandwidth at 100 mbps, plenty of parking, onsite Fitness Center and outdoor pool and spa. Our hotel is committed to do our part in reducing our carbon footprint in an effort to help stop global warming. We work closely with our vendors to use sustainable, ecofriendly products and have improved our energy efficiency by installing solar panels to generate energy throughout the hotel.
Location
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach by IHG
Numerous guests reported unsanitary conditions, including dirty rooms, stained linens, and concerns about bed bugs.
Customer Service
While some staff members received praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, many reviews highlighted poor customer service, including unresponsive management and rude front desk staff.
Hidden Fees
Guests expressed frustration over unexpected charges, such as parking fees and increased rates upon check-in, leading to feelings of being misled.
Room Condition
Many reviews noted that the rooms were outdated and in need of maintenance, with issues like moldy smells, broken fixtures, and uncomfortable beds.
Location and Amenities
The hotel’s location near the beach and local attractions was frequently praised, along with some positive comments about the breakfast and pool facilities.
JM
John Martin
3 days ago
5.0
This Holiday Inn Express Rocks!
Anele was extremely helpful in maneuvering ways for me to check-in early and checkout late! She is a major asset to this property. Nothing I like better than dealing with ‘Street Smart’ people who go above & beyond to help their guests out!
TR
Tyler Reamer
Nov 17, 2025
5.0
The rooms are somewhat dated, but still a decent hotel for the money. The beds aren't the greatest, but, all in all, good experience.
RB
Regis Beckhauser
Nov 6, 2025
2.0
This hotel definitely need a update
RB
Rob Brown
Oct 27, 2025
3.0
PARKING FEE of $35/night - not a fan. It looked like guests were parking offsite and walking to the hotel to avoid the daily fee. Just another way to take my cash, it wasn't like they had to build a parking structure to accommodate vehicles, just the same 50 year old parking lot that has always been there. And the room was also pretty run down, needs an overhaul.
MT
Marci Turaga
Oct 9, 2025
3.0
The location of this hotel is nice, and the room was ok but aging a little bit. The main reason I'm writing this review is because we accidentally left my son's board shorts hanging in the closet nook. I called the same day we checked out and they were gone. The person I called checked the room, which makes me think there wasn't another guest directly after us. I can only assume a house keeper there has a child the same size as mine. Its my mistake, and luckily it wasn't something very valuable. But the fact that the shorts disappeared without any explanation within a few hours is sketchy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach by IHG
What are the standard check-in and check-out times at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach?
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM and check-out time is at 11:00 AM.
Is breakfast included with the stay at the hotel?
Yes, a free buffet breakfast is available for guests.
Does the hotel offer free Wi-Fi for guests?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in public areas throughout the hotel.
Are pets allowed at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach?
No, pets including cats and dogs are not allowed at the hotel.
Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Yes, the hotel is mobility accessible and provides accessible parking and an elevator.
What fitness and recreational facilities are available at the hotel?
Guests can enjoy a free fitness center equipped with elliptical machines and free weights, as well as an outdoor pool and hot tub.
Does Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach offer contactless check-in or checkout?
Yes, the hotel provides contactless check-in and checkout options and digital guest room keys.
What nearby beaches can guests visit around the hotel?
Guests can easily visit Oceanside California Beach, which is nearby and offers a relaxing coastal experience.
Are there nearby dining options near Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carlsbad Beach?
Yes, nearby dining includes Benihana, a Japanese and sushi restaurant close to the hotel.
What attractions or business parks are close to the hotel for guests visiting for business or leisure?
The hotel is conveniently located near Carlsbad Flower Fields, Legoland, South Carlsbad State Beach, and business parks like Thermo Fisher and Siemens, ideal for both leisure and business visitors.