Twice my husband and I have taken the kids to LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad (just north of San Diego) from our home in Colorado. The first trip, it was all about the theme park — two full days of riding the rides, building with the little bricks, watching the live shows and eating plenty of hot dogs, pizza and ice cream.

For our second trip in March of this year, we explored other attractions around Carlsbad, including the coastline. My parting words to my children, as we exited the car on a brisk spring afternoon were, “Don’t get wet!”

Dipping toes in.

Dipping toes in.

Mom said, "Don't get wet!"

Mom said, "Don't get wet!"

Okay, let's back up a bit.

Okay, lets back up a bit.

Yikes! It's going to get me.

Yikes! It's going to get me!

If I lift my pants up enough, I'll stay dry.

I can stay dry!

Forget it! Game over.

Forget it! Game over.

Bathing suits on, let the fun really begin!

Bathing suits on, let's get soaked!

Photos taken by Kara Williams, March 2008, during a stay at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa. Other family-friendly lodging options: Grand Pacific Palisades Resort and the ultra-luxurious La Costa Resort and Spa.