Southern Califoria is beautiful, virtually all the coastal towns are very pleasant and Carlsbad is no exception - although I'd say very pleasant rather than spectacular.
Easy access to good beaches in the area, and even better just to the South.
Also to the North, but they are on the other side of Camp Pendleton (an enormous Marine Corps base) and San Onofre (nuclear power plant) so it's a longer journey.
It's a very easy drive (about 30 mins, depending on time of day) to San Diego - which is spectacular and stunningly beautiful.
Here's a map of the area. Carlsbad isn't shown, but look for Oceanside. Carlsbad/Palomar airport is <10 miles SSE.
Best all year round climate in North America, and probably the world, IMHO. Hot in the summer (but rarely humid) and mild in the winter. Very little rain.
Tudor Owen