san Marcos activities and closest best beaches with children

[cindyfansmom]

We are going to California to stay with my husband's uncle in March. We are planning to go to DLR for 2 days, Legoland, the zoo, and the model railroad museum. Are there any other neat activities for a 5 and 3 year old that we are missing? Also my children will want to spend time at the beach, even if it is cool. Do you have any suggestions?

[brergnat]

I used to work in San Marcos.

I would suggest the San Diego Wild Animal park instead of the zoo. The wild animal park is VERY close to San Marcos (about 15 min, if that) and it's much cooler than the zoo. Look into it.

The best beach closest to San Marcos is in Carlsbad. It's very close. Not so much a swimming beach, though. It's rocky, but very nice. In March, you will NOT be able to swim in the beach. It will be very cold (55 degree water). Take the 78 West to the 5 South, exit Carlsbad village road, turn right and go all the way until you see the ocean. Turn onto the Pacific Coast Highway and drive until you find a nice place to get out and look around.