MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort

Well-manicured grounds set the stage for this updated but somewhat average timeshare property. The expansive 43 acres keeps the area quiet, even when it’s full and the lobby looks more like a clubhouse than a hotel. Even though the lobby area is large, it’s mostly looks empty with basic tan tile floors, a traditional wood front desk, and black couches near large windows. Potted plants and stone columns add some interest, and there are many seating areas. Coffee, tea, and water are available. The property is clean and modern, outside there's a circular fire pit surrounded by brown wicker chairs topped with striped canary-yellow pillows. 

The MarBrisa Carlsbad Resort is next to Legoland, with its own private entrance. Restaurants and shops around Legoland are within walking distance, as are attractions such as the Sea Life Aquarium and the Crossings at Carlsbad Golf Course. The Carlsbad Premium Outlets and Carlsbad Flower fields are a three-minute drive from the hotel. A car is needed for guests who plan to visit sights aside from Legoland.

All rooms, except the Studios, are suite-style with separate living and sleeping quarters. Tan and red sofa beds and pink-toned walls look ho-hum, while the striped curtains and red bed runners add a bit of interest. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, microwaves, coffeemakers, and sinks, while bigger rooms have full-size refrigerators, iPod docking stations, and CD players underneath the cabinets. Full kitchens feature red/brown granite countertops that match the bathrooms, as well as dishwashers and range ovens. Balconies with black chairs provide views in some rooms, while others look out at parking lots. Some guests also mention noise from the rides and crowds at Legoland. Most bathrooms include separate soaking tubs and walk-in showers with tan tile. Showers are large with glass doors, and there are Peter Thomas Roth toiletries. 

Two outdoor pools and whirlpools are open year round, but only one of the pools is heated. There are rentable cabanas with seating, flat-screen TVs, and fans. Outdoor amenities include a ping-pong table, pool table, and fire pit with couches.

The on-site restaurant, Twenty/20 Grill and Wine Bar, is shared with another property -- it has nice views of the Pacific Ocean. This is a timeshare, and there are recreational activities for kids, wine tastings for adults, and tours of the city. Free parking and Wi-Fi are available, in addition to a fitness center. The hotel has room service and concierge services, and a small business center in the lobby. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.