Physical Environment of Carlsbad

The Carlsbad physical environment is primarily coastal. Within short proximity to the ocean, there are hills resting just beyond the downtown area. The average elevation is 400 foot above sea level. The area is relatively dry with a yearly rainfall of 12.3 inches. One of the noteworthy features of the area are a series of lagoons situated along the coastline of Carlsbad. One lagoon was named Aqua Hedionda by the Spanish explorer, Gaspar Portola, after its pungent odor, which means Stinking Water.