Some locals know Carlsbad by its streets. Sarah Freeman knows it by its water. She has paddled the lagoon, watched her daughter learn to surf at Warm Waters and caught more sunsets than she could ever count. Ask her what she loves most and the answer comes easy.
"My favorite thing about Carlsbad over the last 30 years has always been the sunsets," Sarah says. "It's one thing that never changes."
Welcome back to Local's Eye, our series spotlighting the people of Carlsbad. This week, Sarah takes us to the places she loves and the spots that hold her favorite memories.
Meet Sarah
Sarah loves coffee, friends, community, the ocean and sunsets. For more than eight years, she ran a paddleboard yoga business on the lagoon.
"The water provided me a place of healing, growth, joy, peace and empowerment," she says. "Having the chance to share this with others was just the best!"
When her younger daughter went looking for girl surf friends, the two of them started a free club together: Girl Grom Surf Club.
What began as free monthly meetups for the girls is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that fosters strong mental health through surfing, community, care for the ocean and giving back. Girls of all levels are welcome to join, and the club now has multiple chapters across California.
The nonprofit also carries the legacy of Sarah's son, who created its logo.
Here are 7 Things Sarah Loves About Life in Carlsbad
1. The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Trail
"The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Trail holds so many memories with my kiddos. Strolling the path is a grounding place of healing and beauty to me. My son's memorial bench is down there."
2. Vinaka Café
"Vinaka is family owned and a vibe! I've had 22+ years of coffee here, and it's my absolute favorite place to curl up with a journal or a book."
3. Terramar
"Terramar is my place to paddle out. When you walk down the stairs, you disappear from the noise."
4. SoCal Surf Lessons at Warm Waters
"So Cal Surf has been running surf lessons at Warm Waters for 17+ years, and it's run by the locals. My daughter learned to surf with these guys, and it's a great beginner spot. If you walk by, you'll hear them cheering their clients on when they catch a wave."
5. Sunset on the Grassy Knoll
"I love the magic the grassy knoll still holds. I walk my dog Bella there to meet new friends, drink some water from the dog-friendly fountain and watch the sunset."
6. Status Skateshop
"Status is such a rad skate shop. They've created an amazing safe space for kids to skate and build community, and there are so many boards to demo."
7. Our Long-Standing Community
"I really love the long-standing community of Carlsbad. The State Beach Classic is every September, a family-friendly surf competition that brings the community together. When someone needs help or support, you can always count on the community to rally together."
