After seeing pictures of The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch on Instagram, I knew that I had to see these huge fields of pretty flowers myself. We included a visit here as part of our “Spring Blooms of SoCal” road trip in March, during which we also visited the Descanso Gardens near Los Angeles and Virginia Robinson Gardens in Beverly Hills. Seeing the vast sea of colorful Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers over fifty acres was as amazing as I imaged it to be! There were beautiful ranunculus in so many different colors that I had to take pictures in all the different areas!
Visitor Tips
The Flower Fields is usually open from March through mid-May. The best time to view the flowers is usually mid-March through Mid-April, although it is best to check their website for updates if you plan on going. I can confirm that the fields were spectacular when I visited at the end of March 2018. It was actually quite hot, so don’t forget your sunscreen and hat! Gates open at 9 am. We did have to wait in line for 5-10 minutes when we arrived around 9:15 am that day. Admissions is $16 (2018). Parking is free.
The most crowded areas are closer to the entrance of the fields. Keep walking further down the fields for much less people! Walking onto the fields is not allowed, but there are many walk-out points for photo opportunities, and if your photographer angles the camera correctly, the walk-out paths and ropes will not be so visible. You can also stand on the benches for photos like I did and strategically crop out the benches later 😉.
Their website states that photography by amateurs and for non-commercial purposes is allowed, but that “Excessive camera and video equipment will not be permitted.” Professional photography can be arranged for a fee.
I hope these flowers brighten your day as they did for me! 😊🌸🌸
Outfit Details
Finders dress from Revolve | Hat Attack hat from Club Monaco
