#211 The Flower Fields

Each Spring, the coastal hills of The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch burst with color. Fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus bloom from March to May and provide gorgeous views of the ocean. Frank Frazee cultivated 13 colors over the years from just red and yellow. He first planted his fields in 1933 and modeled them after his horticulturist neighbor Luther Gage. This local treasure continues every year and helps put Carlsbad on the map.

 

#81 Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park or Rancho De Los Kiotes is the vacation retreat of famous Hollywood actor Leo Carrillo. He designed his ranch after the Spanish Haciendas of his ancestors. At only $17 an acre, the ranch once contained 2,538 acres. The property can be toured today and includes gardens and adobe buildings as well as a stable, barn and reflecting pool. The ranch is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a California Landmark.