Because No Two Moms Are the Same—and They All Deserve a Little Spoiling!
Spring in San Diego is in full bloom, and that means one thing: it’s time to treat Mom. With endless sunshine on the horizon and longer days ahead, there’s no better excuse to splurge on a thoughtful gift for the most important lady in your life. And lucky for locals, Carlsbad’s laid-back, coastal vibe is matched only by its premier shopping destination—The Forum Carlsbad.
This breezy outdoor shopping center in Carlsbad is the crown jewel of North County, featuring elegant Mediterranean-inspired architecture, pristine landscaping and plenty of patios for soaking up the sun between shops. But the real draw? The Forum Carlsbad’s eclectic mix of retail boutiques, wellness studios and dining destinations makes it the place to curate the perfect Mother’s Day gift, no matter her style. From the fashion-forward trendsetter to the health-conscious yogi, there’s something here for every type of mom. Here’s your complete Mother’s Day gift guide featuring some of the cutest shops at The Forum Carlsbad.
For the Hostess Mom
If your mom lives for planning the perfect gathering, plating pretty appetizers and crafting dreamy tablescapes, then it’s time to help her elevate her hostess game. Start with something sweet from SusieCakes, the beloved bakery known for scratch-made classics and seasonal confections. Their rotating Mother’s Day lineup—think pastel-frosted cupcakes and berry-dotted cakes—is as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Credit: The Nix Company
Next, head to, a local favorite for organic groceries and florals. A handpicked bouquet paired with a bottle of biodynamic wine? That’s a hostess win. For moms who love to cook, Sur La Table’s in-store classes make the perfect gift and a fun experience. May’s lineup includes “Springtime Macarons” with rose water ganache and “Cuban Comfort Food” ending in dreamy flan. Even better, join her for “Family Fun: Mother’s Day Treats” and bake side-by-side with the woman who taught you buttercream.
For the Moms to Be and Moms of Littles
Being a mama of young ones means matching sets and mini moments, and Rylee + Cru understands this to a tee. Their pastel plaid Mama & Mini collection blends timeless charm with modern silhouettes, creating the kind of outfits that make Mother’s Day brunch pics even more adorable. With soft fabrics and dreamy hues, it’s the kind of gift that lets her feel put together even on the most chaotic mornings.
For the Mom Who Loves to Travel
Wanderlust never takes a day off, and neither does she. Give your jet-setting mama the ultimate travel upgrade with a pair of Apple AirPods for playlists on the go, or an iPad to keep her entertained from terminal to tarmac. Pair that with a blush-hued YETI Hard Cooler and a matching stackable mug—perfect for picnics on the Amalfi Coast or beach days in Baja.
Before she jets off, stop by Everything But Water to snag the new Kylam Lace-Up Tankini, a flattering and functional suit that doubles as poolside glam. And no travel kit is complete without skincare, and Bluemercury’s Vacation Shake Shake SPF 50 Mineral Milk is a lightweight, hydrating formula that’ll keep her glowing and protected under the sun.
For the Fashion-Forward Mom
If your mom is always ahead of the style curve, give her pieces as effortlessly cool as she is. The Farm Rio x Anthropologie Halter Jumpsuit brings the drama with a tropical print and sophisticated cut—perfect for garden parties or sipping sangria at golden hour. Add some sparkle with Gorjana’s Crew Alphabet Statement Charm Necklaces, a personalized piece she’ll wear on repeat.
At Madewell, the Essential Curve Shoulder Bag in classic black adds polish to any outfit (and fits her whole life inside). Want something with a little more edge? The bold, red Claudine Set from Van De Vort at The Forum Carlsbad is made for the fashionista mom who loves a matching moment.
For the Fitness Mom
This mom lives in motion—and loves every second of it. Kickstart her activewear refresh with Alo’s Airbrush Streamlined Set, a sunshiny yellow ensemble that moves as beautifully as she does. In addition, a pair of Nike Air Max 90s will keep her steps supported, whether she’s hitting the courts for a game of pickleball or tennis.
The Vuori AllTheFeels™ Slim Flare pants? A buttery-soft dream made for post-workout errands or downward dogs. And for hands-free ease on the trails or at the gym, Lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag is a cult favorite for a reason—it goes literally everywhere.
For the Health-Focused Mom
Wellness is her love language—and The Forum Carlsbad delivers on all fronts. Start with a YogaSix or FlowCorps membership to support her mind-body balance, whether she’s flowing through vinyasa or sweating it out on the Megaformer. Then, stock her fridge with Pressed Juicery’s 1-Day Reset Cleanse Kit. This now includes a free cooler bag—a chic bonus for the on-the-go health nut!
Complete this Mother’s Day gift package with goodies from Parakeet Café. This is the ultimate organic oasis and the 10th outpost of this cult-favorite. Their Birds of a Feather espresso blend is bold and rich, the gluten-free sourdough is housemade and heavenly. The matcha wafers are the perfect sweet snack to fuel her day. While you’re there, don’t forget to snap a pic. Between the tropical wallpaper and neon vibes, Parakeet is a vibe all its own.
Skip the guesswork and shop using this 2025 Mother’s Day gift guide! The Forum Carlsbad makes it easy to treat every kind of mom to something special. Maybe you can even squeeze in a little something for yourself while you’re at it.