Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. Here you’ll find everything you need to know before you arrive, including details on booking, check-in times, resort fees, parking, pools, pet policies, shuttle service, and more. These FAQs are designed to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable stay at The Cassara Carlsbad.

Is it better to book directly with The Cassara Carlsbad or through third-party websites like Expedia or Booking.com?

Booking directly on our official website is the best way to secure the lowest rates and receive added perks. Guests who book direct or through Hilton Honors enjoy:

  • Flexible cancellation policies
  • Priority for room assignments and special requests
  • Higher consideration for early check-in or late check-out
  • No hidden third-party fees

Eligibility for Hilton Honors points and rewards

Does The Cassara Carlsbad offer a Best Rate Guarantee or price match?

Yes! If you find a lower rate on Expedia, Booking.com, Hotels.com, Priceline, or another trusted travel site for the same dates and room type, call our Reservations Team at 833-447-9195. We are happy to verify and match the rate.
Tip: Please request a rate match before booking elsewhere, as third-party reservations may have stricter cancellation policies.

Why should I book directly with the hotel instead of using Expedia or Priceline?

Booking direct gives you:
✔ Lowest available rate — no additional booking fees
✔ Flexible cancellation (third-party sites often restrict this)
✔ Priority for upgrades and ocean-view rooms
✔ Eligibility for Hilton Honors rewards
✔ Direct communication with the hotel — no call centers or delays

What if I already booked through Expedia or Booking.com? Will my reservation still be honored?

Yes — we work with all major travel partners. However, please note:

  • Third-party bookings may have stricter cancellation policies
  • Room assignments and upgrade requests are given after direct/Honors guests
  • Some requests (late checkout, specific views, pet-friendly rooms) cannot be guaranteed through third parties

Does The Cassara Carlsbad offer special packages, AAA rates, military discounts, or Hilton Honors member rates?

Yes — we offer multiple exclusive rates and seasonal promotions, especially for:

  • Hilton Honors Members
  • AAA / CAA members
  • Military & Veterans

What time is check-in and check-out at The Cassara Carlsbad?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM.

If you arrive early, you’re welcome to stop by the front desk, pre-register, store your luggage, and start enjoying the pools, dining, or resort amenities while your room is being prepared.

Does The Cassara Carlsbad offer early check-in or late check-out?

Early check-in and late check-out are based on availability. Guests who book direct or are Hilton Honors members receive first consideration. While not guaranteed, our team will always do their best to accommodate your request.

What is the minimum age to check in to The Cassara Carlsbad?

Guests must be 21 years or older to check in and present a valid ID along with a matching credit or debit card.

What fees are applied to my reservation? Is there a resort or destination fee?

Yes. The Cassara Carlsbad applies the following daily fees:

Fee Type Amount Includes
Destination/Resort Fee $25 + tax/day $25 daily food & beverage credit, 1-hour bike rental, premium Wi-Fi, access to pools, splash pad, fitness center & resort amenities
Parking Fee $32/day  Covered garage and on-site parking, please be advised increase for stays 2026 $36 
Taxes Varies State and local occupancy taxes

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies depend on your rate type and booking channel.

  • Most direct bookings allow free cancellation up to 48 or 72 hours before arrival.
  • Third-party bookings (Expedia, Priceline, etc.) may have stricter non-refundable policies.

For assistance, contact the hotel directly at 833-447-9195.

Do you require a deposit or hold on my credit card at check-in?

Yes. A temporary authorization hold is placed on your credit or debit card at check-in for room charges, taxes, and a refundable incidental amount.

What is your smoking policy?

The Cassara Carlsbad is a 100% non-smoking hotel. Smoking (including e-cigarettes and vaping) is not permitted inside guest rooms or indoor public areas. A cleaning fee of up to $250 may be charged for violations. Designated outdoor smoking areas are available—please ask the front desk.

Does The Cassara Carlsbad have a pool? Is there a kids' pool or splash pad?

Yes! The Cassara Carlsbad features multiple pools and family-focused amenities:

  • Resort Pool – 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Family Pool + Kids Splash Pad – 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
  • Outdoor hot tubs/spas – 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

We are known as one of the best family-friendly hotels near LEGOLAND® because of our splash pad, family pool, spacious rooms, and walkable access to Carlsbad attractions.

Are the pools at The Cassara Carlsbad heated?

Yes. Both of our pools — the resort pool and the family pool — are heated to a comfortable 80 degrees year-round.

Is The Cassara Carlsbad a family-friendly hotel near LEGOLAND®?

Absolutely. The hotel is located just 1 mile from LEGOLAND® California and offers:
✔ Family pool & splash pad
✔ Spacious rooms & family suites
✔ Seasonal shuttle service to LEGOLAND®, Carlsbad beaches & outlets
✔ Activity Center (open daily 8 AM – 7:30 PM)
✔ Walking distance to Carlsbad Flower Fields & Premium Outlets

Is The Cassara Carlsbad pet-friendly? Can I bring my dog?

Yes! We proudly welcome dogs at The Cassara Carlsbad.

Pet Policy:

  • Up to 2 dogs per room, max 25 lbs each
  • $75 non-refundable pet fee per stay
  • Pet-friendly rooms are located on the first floor for convenience
  • Pets should not be left alone in the room and must remain with owners in public areas

What are the hotel amenity hours?

Amenity Hours
Resort Pool 8 AM – 10 PM
Family Pool & Splash Pad 8 AM – 9 PM
Hot Tubs / Spas 8 AM – 9 PM
Fitness Center 24 hours (hotel key required)
Business Center 24 hours
Activity Center 8 AM – 7:30 PM
Fire Pits Sundown – 10 PM
Bike Rentals Ask front desk for availability
Gas BBQ Grills 7 AM – 10 PM

 

Does the hotel offer transportation or a shuttle to the beach or LEGOLAND®?

Yes. The Ride the Tide Trolley is a seasonal complimentary shuttle for hotel guests. It runs during Spring Break and Summer months to:

For the current schedule, please check with the front desk.

Can I request a specific room, floor level, or ocean view at The Cassara Carlsbad?

Yes — you may request room preferences such as location, connecting rooms, or partial coastline views. While we do our best to accommodate all requests, they are based on availability.

Important:

  • Partial Coastline View rooms are the most requested and often sell out first.
  • To guarantee a room with a partial coastline view, we strongly recommend booking that  room type directly on our website rather than requesting it at check-in.

Guests who book direct or are Hilton Honors Members receive first consideration for special requests.

Interested in hosting a wedding, meeting, or event at The Cassara Carlsbad?

Yes! The Cassara offers a stunning coastal event space overlooking the Pacific Ocean — perfect for meetings, retreats, celebrations, reunions, or corporate gatherings.

Event Services Include:

  • Coastal-view event lawn + indoor spaces
  • Group room blocks (10+ rooms)
  • Catering options
  • Professional event coordination

📞 Contact our Sales Team at 760-585-9086 or visit our Meetings & Events page for more details.

Do you offer day passes or allow non-hotel guests to use the pools or splash pad?

At this time, amenities are exclusively for registered hotel guests only. Due to high demand and safety standards, we do not offer day-use passes for the pools, splash pad, or resort facilities.

What is your smoking or vaping policy?

The Cassara Carlsbad is a 100% non-smoking property. Smoking, vaping, and e-cigarettes are not permitted in guest rooms, balconies, or indoor areas.

  • A $250 cleaning fee may apply for any violations.

Designated outdoor smoking areas are available — please ask the front desk for locations.

What is the cancellation policy at The Cassara Carlsbad?

Cancellation policies depend on your rate plan and booking method:

  • Flexible rates booked directly often allow cancellation 48–72 hours before arrival without a fee.
  • Prepaid or advance-purchase rates may be non-refundable.
  • Expedia/Booking.com reservations follow their specific policies. For help modifying your reservation, call 833-447-9195.

What are the best hotels in Carlsbad near LEGOLAND® for families?

The Cassara Carlsbad was proudly voted Best Hotel in North County and is known as one of the top family-friendly hotels near LEGOLAND® California. Located within walking distance from the park, the resort offers a kids’ splash pad, family pool, spacious rooms and suites, seasonal trolley shuttle service to LEGOLAND®, and easy access to local attractions like the Carlsbad Flower Fields, beaches, and outlet shopping.

Does The Cassara Carlsbad offer Coastal View rooms?

Yes. The hotel offers Partial Coastline View rooms. These are our most popular room types and often sell out early, so we recommend selecting a partial coastal view room when booking direct to guarantee availability.

What does the resort/destination fee include?

 The daily $25+tax destination fee includes:
• $25 food & beverage credit
• Premium Wi-Fi
• One-hour bike rental
• Access to pools, splash pad, fitness center and resort amenities
• Seasonal trolley shuttle service when available

Is there a shuttle to the beach or LEGOLAND® from the hotel?

Yes. The Cassara Carlsbad offers a seasonal Ride the Tide Trolley, a complimentary shuttle for hotel guests during Spring Break and the Summer months only. It provides transportation to LEGOLAND®, Tamarack Beach, and Carlsbad Premium Outlets.

Does The Cassara have a kids' pool or splash pad?

Yes. The hotel features a family pool and a dedicated kids’ splash pad, open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily — making it a popular choice for families visiting Carlsbad and LEGOLAND®.

How much is parking at The Cassara Carlsbad?

Self-parking is available for $32 per night. Parking is located in our covered garage or designated outdoor lots. A parking permit will be provided at check-in.  Please be advised increase applies to $36 for 2026 travel dates.